Notre Dame EARLY ACTION more competitive?

<p>So I've read that the applicant pool to Notre Dame is more competitive and selective in "EARLY ACTION". Yet Ive seen that the admit rate for EA is 42% vs the RD rate of 26%.</p>

<p>I know that alot of the time, legacies, athletes, and other people with hooks are encouraged to apply EA so sometimes the rates are a bit hard to interpret.</p>

<p>What do you guys think about applying EA to Notre Dame???</p>

<p>I think you should carefully read what ND’s website says about EA. They treat it differently than many other schools. They are very clear that one shouldn’t be applying EA unless they are at the top of the stats pool. During our fall visit (3 years ago), they were straightforward about this and advising waiting if the ACT was < 33. Our regional counselor concurred. Personally, I wouldn’t do it with a 32 or less. Being in the top 5% of class is helpful too. I do think ND is more stats driven than some other top schools.</p>

<p>I agree with sryrstress. Just about every stat needs to be strong. This includes things that often get overlooked like diverse ECs and service hours. I would just add that if you are uncertain about whether or not to apply EA you can always contact your regional admissions rep. ND’s reps are generous with their time and they can probably help point you in the best direction. It’s no guarantee that they will be of much help, but it’s worth a shot as they are an outstanding source of information and a good contact.</p>

<p>Okay thanks!!</p>

<p>Ya my ACT is a 31 =/ and im top 5% but in a very small class, and so more emphasis will go on my scores I suppose.</p>

<p>I have pretty diverse EC’s that would likely stand out in any applicant pool, but Im not sure if the risk is worth it =/</p>

<p>Any more advice??</p>

<p>With that ACT score you may want to hold off on EA. There is a good chance you would get deferred but I think you could really stand out in the RD pool with your class rank, ECs, GPA, etc…</p>

<p>I agree w/ Irish. Since your rank and ECs are good, have you considered re-taking the ACT this fall? I do think 32 or 33 could possibly make a difference in admission outcome, esp. if the other factors are good. Make sure your essay really reflects you individually too. I do think, other factors being equal, that ND places more emphasis on the essay than some other schools.</p>

<p>The average ACT for EA for the class of 2010 was 33.1. Make of that what you will because I was accepted early with a 32.</p>

<p>Are you a guy or a girl…can’t tell by your screen name…hate to say it but I think that makes a difference.</p>