There are a number of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for current students, prospective students, parents and faculty. The links on this page will provide you with the information you need.
Women’s College
What Does Notre Dame Look for in Applicants?
Because each student has unique abilities and experiences, there is no definitive evaluation that ensures admission or guarantees rejection. More than anything else, we try to determine intellectual potential and growth in maturity and responsibility. While your academic record, high school curriculum and standardized test scores are good indications of these qualities, our review ranges far beyond a simple ranking of scores and averages.
We pay close attention to personal qualities such as leadership, compassion and creativity. We look at your special interests, talents and goals. Your letters of recommendation, essay and personal interview can help us assess these unique qualities that are essential parts of who you are.
Is There a Typical Notre Dame Student?
No. We honestly would be hard-pressed to define a "typical" student. In assembling an entering class, we try to admit students from across the country and around the world. We look for students who have special talents, a variety of interests and diverse backgrounds. The only common denominator is that these students are eager to enter the world of ideas, explore their own academic potential and develop their unique, personal identity.
When Should I Apply?
Students should apply as soon as possible, but before February 15 to be guaranteed consideration for acceptance into the entering fall class. Applications received after February 15 will be reviewed on a space-available basis.
What Are the Required Materials?
- Completed application (go to Request Info) and $25 fee.
- Official high school/college transcript sent to us. A final transcript will be required upon graduation. International students must submit a certified English translation of any transcripts or official documents.
- Student essay.
- A recommendation from your high school guidance counselor. (Freshmen only.)
- A recommendation from an English teacher.
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT) scores (freshmen only). International students are required to submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. Scores should be sent directly to Notre Dame by January for fall admission. The code for the SAT, PAA and TOEFL is 5114; the ACT code is 1727.
- Student resume (part of the admissions application).
When Will I Hear about Acceptance?
In most cases, our Admissions Committee makes a decision as soon as possible after receiving all six required materials listed above.
Early Action
If College of Notre Dame is your first choice, you will be considered for early action if you send all application materials by December 3rd for fall admission. With this option, you could have a decision as early as fall of your senior year.
Is an Interview Required?
Although in most cases it is not required, an interview is recommended. A visit to our campus is truly worth a thousand words. Call the office of admissions to arrange a tour. We're proud of our beautiful campus and comprehensive facilities, and believe that you, like many potential students who visit us, will decide that College of Notre Dame is the right college for you.
Weekend College
How long will it take to earn my degree?
The length of time it takes to complete your degree depends on how many credits you transfer in and how many courses you can take a semester. You can earn up to 30 credits in an academic year through the Weekend College program.
How long do I have to complete my degree?
There is no overall time limit; however, once admitted to the college, you must complete one course each academic year.
I have college credits from many years ago. Will any of them transfer to Notre Dame?
Most courses in which you obtained a grade of "C" or higher are transferable. Some exceptions may apply depending upon your major.
Do I have to be admitted to the college before I can start to take classes?
You may earn up to 18 credits before having to apply for admission (matriculation).
Can I take day and evening classes during the week as a Weekend College student?
Since your degree will be from the College of Notre Dame, you are able to take classes in any undergraduate program (day or weekend).
Does earning a degree through the Weekend College mean attending classes every weekend?
You don't attend classes every weekend because classes meet either 5, 7, or 10 times a semester. Each class meets for 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Can I earn credit for my work experience?
The Weekend College offers two alternative ways of earning credit, CLEP (standardized exams) and Petitioning for Credit (portfolio assessment).
What's my next step in finding out if the Weekend College is right for me?
You can either attend one of our monthly Information Sessions or schedule an individual appointment with an academic advisor by calling the Weekend College office at 410-532-5500.
I need help in paying for college. How do I find out what types of financial assistance are available at the College of Notre Dame?
Students attending the Weekend College are able to apply for federal student financial aid and other state, local and Notre Dame scholarships. Applying for financial aid requires the following: completion of the FAFSA, you must be a matriculated (admitted) student and be enrolled for a minimum of 6 credits for each semester that you are applying for aid. Additional documentation may be required depending upon the type of aid you are applying for and receive. It is recommended that you contact the College of Notre Dame office of financial aid at 410-532-5369 to receive complete information about applying for financial aid or to find out about scholarship opportunities.
A monthly payment plan for the Fall and Spring semesters and a deferred payment plan for the summer are available to students through the business office. For more information about these plans and an application, please contact the business office at 410-532-5744 or click here for more financial aid FAQs.
Does the Weekend College offer any Certificate Programs and do I need to be admitted to the college to enroll in one of these?
The following four Certificate Programs are available: Communication and New Technology, Leadership and Social Change, Educational Office Management for Baltimore County Public Schools and Advanced Instruction for Paraeducators in Baltimore County Public Schools. Students are eligible to complete a Certificate Program without having to apply for admission to the College. Students pursuing a certificate are required to complete a Declaration of Intent form with the registrar's office. These forms are available from the Weekend College office.
What are the requirements for a Second Bachelor's degree student?
Students earning a Second Bachelor's degree are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits and at least five courses in the major at Notre Dame. Ninety credits are transferred from your first degree and applied towards this second degree at College of Notre Dame. Admission requirements are the same for all Weekend College undergraduate students.
Weekend College FAQs for Current Students
How do I change or add a major or declare a minor or concentration?
If you are a matriculated student you need to file either a Change of Major or Declaration of Minor form with the registrar's office. Your advisor's signature is required on each form. Both forms are available in the registrar's and Weekend College offices.
I can't take any courses next semester. Will I lose my matriculant status?
Matriculants must complete one course in an academic year (Fall, Winterim, Spring, Summer) to maintain their matriculant status.
I will be ready to graduate within the next year. Is there anything I need to do or need to notify anyone?
You must file for graduation one semester before your intended graduation date by completing a Graduation Application. These forms require your advisor's signature and need to be returned to the registrar's office. Forms are available from the Registrar's and Weekend College offices.
Is May the only time (semester) that I can graduate?
College of Notre Dame has three graduations: August, December and May. The graduation ceremony takes place in May.
Can I take classes during the day if I'm a Weekend College student?
Since your degree will be from the College of Notre Dame, you are able to take classes in any undergraduate program (day or weekend).
When should I meet with my faculty advisor or a Weekend College academic advisor?
It is recommended that you contact your advisor via phone or email at least once a year. You should contact your advisor when you need assistance with course selection, curriculum planning or making any changes to your major or minor. If you are experiencing any difficulties with any of your courses, it is recommended that you consult with an advisor.
How do I find out more information about either taking a CLEP exam or the Petitioning for Credit option?
Information about each of these options is available through the Weekend College office. Specific details should be discussed with a Weekend College academic advisor.
I have been attending classes through the Weekend College and have almost accumulated 18 credits but have not applied for admission (matriculation) yet. What do I need to do?
Students that have not matriculated are required to do so once they have completed a maximum of 18 College of Notre Dame credits. Admission requirements include submitting an Admissions Application and the $40 application fee, official transcripts from all colleges previously attended and an official high school transcript if an Associate's degree has not been earned. Students must also have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher from either previous college coursework or by initially taking a minimum of 12 CND credits and earning a 2.5 or higher GPA at CND. Students who have a cumulative GPA below 2.5 should consult with a Weekend College Advisor for additional information about the admissions (matriculation) process. See the Admission Application section of the current Weekend College catalog for further details regarding GPA requirements and the application process.
I have recommended the Weekend College Program to several co-workers and friends. One of those individuals enrolled in a course and now wants to continue and earn their degree from Notre Dame. Does the Weekend College offer any bonus or incentive to its current WEC students to recruit others to the program by word of mouth?
The Weekend College sponsors the Tell-A-Friend OR Co-Worker program. This program offers current WEC students the opportunity to tell friends and co-workers about the Weekend College and earn $100 or more in the upcoming semester if that friend enrolls for one 3-credit course. Additionally, if your friend or co-worker comes to a WEC Information Session, you will be entered into a drawing for a $100 campus bookstore voucher. Contact the Weekend College office at 410-532-5500 for further details and a Referral Form.
How do I drop or add a course to my schedule?
Dropping and/or adding courses can be done prior to the start of the semester by completing a Drop/Add Authorization Form and submitting it to the registrar's office for processing. No course can be added once it has met for the first time. Courses dropped prior to the start of the semester will not appear on a student's transcript. Drop/Add Authorization Forms are available from the Registrar's and Weekend College offices. Please note: Students who are receiving financial aid should check with that office to determine how changing their semester credit load may impact their financial aid.
How do I withdraw from a course during the semester?
Students may withdraw from a course during the semester by completing a Course Withdrawal Form and submitting it to the registrar's office for processing. Course withdrawal deadlines are listed in the Course Schedule Booklet each semester. No withdrawals will be processed after the stated deadlines. Course Withdrawal Forms are available from the Registrar's and Weekend College offices. Please note: Students who are receiving financial aid should check with that office to determine how changing their semester credit load may impact their financial aid.
What are the requirements for earning honors at graduation or making the Dean's List?
To earn honors at graduation, students must earn a minimum of 60 credits in graded coursework at College of Notre Dame. This excludes credits earned in Pass/Fail courses (including standardized testing, Petitioning for Credit and transfer). Students are limited to four Pass (P) grades on graded (A-F) courses. The following honors are conferred on students who achieve the following grade point average based on work completed at College of Notre Dame:
3.90 for the distinction of Summa Cum Laude
3.70 for the distinction of Magna Cum Laude
3.50 for the distinction of Cum Laude
The Dean's List is published at the end of the fall, spring and summer terms. The list published at the end of the summer term lists those part-time students who have a 3.5 grade point average for the year, a minimum of 24 graded credits with no incompletes, and a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher. Dean's List students are recognized at the fall Honors Convocation.
English Language Institute (ELI)
When is the deadline for applications?
For F-1 visa students, the deadlines is 2 months before the first day of classes. For all other applicants, the deadline is 3 weeks before the first day of class. Check the schedule for dates.
How old must I be to study in ELI?
At least 18 years of age.
When I apply, how long does it take for the I-20 to be issued?
It takes 2 business days
What is the schedule of your sessions?
Click here.
What is your class schedule?
Click here
How many levels do you have?
Three to five levels, depending on the class
How many classes does a part-time student take?
Part-time students can take one to three classes.
Do you have a placement exam?
Yes, the required placement exam is given on the first day of the session.
Do you offer any classes in the evenings? Weekends?
Evening classes are available for part-time students. At this time, no weekend classes are offered.
Do you offer summer courses for high school or middle school students?
No, not at this time, however special considerations may be made for groups. Contact the director for more information.
How many students are in each class?
Class size is small; many classes average 10-12 students.
Do I get a diploma or certificate when I finish?
Students receive a certificate at the end of the program; however, credit is not awarded for ELI courses.
How much does ELI cost to study full-time? Part-time?
Click here
Do you offer any financial aid or scholarships?
No, not at this time.
When should I pay?
On the first day of the session.
How should I pay?
Cash, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or check drawn on a US bank. The business office does not accept American Express.
I am not on an F-1 Student Visa, can I still study in the ELI?
It depends on your visa status. Click here or contact us for more information.
What should I do if my visa is denied?
First, be sure you receive an explanation from the US embassy or consulate why you were denied and ask about re-application procedures. Often, F-1 visas are denied because the officer is not convinced that the applicant is a non-immigrant whose purpose for coming to the United States is temporary. If you reapply, be sure to strengthen your case for coming back to your home country.
If your visa is denied, please contact us as well.
Financial Aid
Where do I begin?
Check with your employer to see if you are eligible for tuition benefits. Approximately 50% of graduate students receive some type of employer reimbursement plan. Fill out the form that is available in the Graduate Studies office.
Are payment plans available?
The FACTS Payment Plan offered by the College allows students to pay their bills in four installments for a fee. FACTS information sheets are available in the Graduate Studies office.
Are any scholarships available?
There are a number of programs available to graduate students. You must take at least 6 credits per semester and you must be a matriculant (accepted as a degree-seeking student) to receive th following awards:
- Maryland State Scholarships?There are a variety of scholarships available through the Maryland State Scholarship Administration. Visit www.mhec.state.md.us/index.asp for a complete list of scholarships. A few are highlighted below:
- Maryland Senatorial and Delegate Scholarships?Awards range from $200 to $3,000 per year for students taking at least 6 credits per semester. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid by March 1 each year and contact your legislators to the Maryland State General Assembly directly to find out their specific application requirements.
Will I qualify for federal financial aid?
In order to receive federal financial aid, Graduate Students must matriculate, be enrolled for at least 6 credits per semester, and send all required application documents to the office of financial aid. Graduate students are eligible to receive funding from the Federal Perkins Loan Program and the Federal Stafford Loan Program. The Federal Perkins Loan is a need-based loan awarded to students with very low income. Because most Graduate students work full-time, many are not eligible for this grant.
Most Graduate students who receive federal financial aid do so in the form of the Federal Stafford Loan. Generally students are awarded enough loan money to pay for tuition, fees and books. The Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan does not accrue interest while you are in school. The Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan accrues interest while you are in school. Both types of Federal Stafford Loans do not require repayment until six months after either graduation or cessation of six-credit enrollment. Students are given ten years to repay the loan and interest is capped at 8.25%. This loan is guaranteed regardless of your credit history. Private lenders provide funding for the Federal Stafford Loan, but students apply for the loan through the office of financial aid.
How do I apply for financial aid?
Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid available in the office of financial aid or online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students who are selected for verification after completing the FAFSA must submit federal tax returns, W-2s and the Verification Worksheet to the office of financial aid. We will contact students in writing if they've been selected for verification.
How do I transfer aid from another college to Notre Dame?
Financial aid is not transferred from one college to another. Students must cancel their aid at the other college and complete the application requirements at Notre Dame. If a student has already filed the FAFSA, then the student must add Notre Dame's Title IV code-002065 to the FAFSA application.
I can only afford one class per semester, but I want to take more. What can I do?
Students can borrow as little at $200 with the Federal Stafford Loan Program. Some students choose to pay for one class and finance the other with the Federal Stafford Loan.
What if I need money for other expenses like a computer or daycare?
The Federal Stafford Loan can be used for expenses such as transportation, a computer, daycare, or other living expenses. The amount available varies per student depending on year in school and the number of credits enrolled per semester. Students who need a living expense loan while student teaching are advised to speak with a financial aid counselor two semesters before the student teaching semester.
What if I need money for books?
Students can complete the bookstore advance form that is available in the office of financial aid, the business office and the College's Web site. This form is used to determine if a student will have financial aid funds available to purchase books. Each student is limited to one request per semester. Students should research their expenses for books before making the request. Advances are limited to $40 per credit or the total amount of a student's remaining financial aid funds, whichever is less.
Are there deadlines for applying for financial aid I must adhere to?
Students are encouraged to adhere to admissions and financial aid priority deadline February 15 (full academic year), January 15 (spring), or May 15 (summer) to ensure financial aid awards are processed prior to the start of the semester. A student may apply for financial aid after the priority deadline has passed, but the student will need to pay the tuition bill and reimburse herself or himself with financial aid once it is awarded. Below is a list of documents students must submit to be admitted to the College:
- admissions application
- $40 admissions fee
- official high school transcript (if student has not earned an AA degree)
- official transcripts from each college attended prior to application for admission at Notre Dame
Please note: Additional materials may be required for certain degree programs.
How do I contact the office of financial aid?
The office of financial aid is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Weekend hours are scheduled throughout the year as listed in the course schedule. Evening and weekend hours are also available by appointment. Contact the office of financial aid at finaid@ndm.edu or by calling 410-532-5369.
Study Abroad
Who can study abroad?
Anybody can, everybody should!
Any Notre Dame student of sophomore status (minimum 30 credits) who has declared her major and has a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 (some programs require a 3.0).
When can I study abroad?
Fall, winter, spring or summer!
Students may study abroad during their sophomore or junior year, or during the first semester of their senior year.
What types of programs are available?
All kinds! Academic Programs (2-4 weeks, semesters, summers, or year-long); as well asWork Abroad, Teach Abroad and Volunteer Abroad Programs.
How can I finance study abroad?
Easily!
Students who choose semester-long programs pay Notre Dame tuition, room and board and may apply all of their federal, state, and institutional financial aid to Notre Dame-sponsored programs abroad. Eligible students may qualify for tuition aid for short-term academic programs abroad. Some additional financial aid is available to qualified students.
Will I receive academic credit for the courses I take abroad?
Yes!
Students work with their academic advisors and study abroad advisor to select study abroad courses that can be used to fulfill graduation requirements at Notre Dame. In Notre Dame-sponsored programs, all credits are actual Notre Dame academic credits. Where possible, study abroad courses may be used to fulfill requirements in the major and general education. Credits completed as part of non-Notre Dame programs may transfer back to Notre Dame.
Can I study abroad and still complete my degree in a timely fashion?
Absolutely!
The key is to plan ahead; with enough preparation and help from your academic and study abroad advisors, staying on schedule should not be a problem.
But what if my major doesn't seem really "international"?
Every major is international!
Imagine mathematics without Descartes, literature without Shakespeare, or science without Madame Curie! Notre Dame is committed to providing all students with an educational experience that is truly international. Your undergraduate experience prepares you to gain an understanding of others in a culturally diverse world, and study abroad is the perfect tool. When any graduate enters the work force, employers aren't just looking at academic performance; they are looking for life experience. Life-enriching experiences like study abroad make students stand out as risk-takers and as people who are interested in taking their learning and communication skills one step further.
What about my language skills?
No problem!
No experience sharpens skills in a foreign language more than living abroad. Programs are, however, offered in various English-speaking countries and most programs in non English-speaking countries offer classes taught in English.
Who will help me plan?
We will!
The Sister Kathleen Feeley International Center houses the Study Abroad Resource Center open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Literature, catalogues, books, and videos on all Notre Dame programs are available. Stop in to schedule an appointment with the Director of Study Abroad.
School of Pharmacy
What degree will College of Notre Dame offer in the field of Pharmacy?
College of Notre Dame of Maryland will offer the first professional degree in the field of pharmacy—the Doctor of Pharmacy degree (Pharm.D.).
I’ve heard College of Notre Dame is a women's college. Can men enroll in the School of Pharmacy at College of Notre Dame?
Yes, men can enroll in the School of Pharmacy. The School of Pharmacy is co-educational and will enroll men and women.
Can I complete my pre-pharmacy course work at College of Notre Dame?
Yes. The Women's College has a pre-pharmacy program and students may apply for admission into the pre-pharmacy program. Please see the Pre-Pharmacy page.
Will College of Notre Dame pre-pharmacy students receive any greater consideration in the application process than those coming from other institutions?
Given the competitive applicant pool for all schools of pharmacy, not all applicants are invited for the required interview of the admissions process. The School of Pharmacy at College of Notre Dame will guarantee interviews for up to 15 students each year from the Women's College's Pre-Pharmacy program. To be considered for a guaranteed interview, Women's College Pre-Pharmacy students must achieve the following:
Maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA (minimum 3.3 GPA in pre-pharmacy science courses).
A minimum grade of C must be earned in all pre-pharmacy courses.
Earn a composite score on the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT) at the 70th percentile or higher.
Does the College participate in PharmCAS?
The College anticipates partial participation in PharmCAS for its inaugural class. For general information regarding the PharmCAS application process see www.pharmcas.org. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review this information carefully.
Is a supplemental application required?
Yes, after the School receives a completed PharmCAS application and if the applicant meets the minimum GPA requirements, a supplemental application will be forwarded to the applicant. A complete application to the School of Pharmacy consists of a completed PharmCAS and School Supplemental application.
Is an interview required?
Yes, but only after the applicant has been selected for further consideration by the Pharmacy Admissions Committee based on his/her competitiveness within the total applicant pool.
Do I need to have an undergraduate degree before applying to the School of Pharmacy?
No, although having an undergraduate degree prior to enrolling in the Pharm.D. program can enhance your application. Students may apply to the School of Pharmacy with a minimum of 72 semester credits of pre-pharmacy coursework. All coursework must be completed at a regionally accredited college or university in the United States or recognized post secondary Canadian institution that uses English as its primary language of instruction and documentation. If an applicant has completed coursework at a foreign college or university, or a recognized post secondary Canadian institution that does not use English as its primary language of instruction and documentation, additional requirements apply.
What are the pre-pharmacy courses I need to complete?
Please refer to the section on pre-requisites on the School of Pharmacy admissions page for complete requirements and admissions information.
Are Pharm.D. students eligible for financial aid? How about scholarships from the College?
Pharm.D students may apply for and, if eligible, receive federal loans or grants from state and private sources. Pharm.D. students are not eligible for scholarships from the College but may compete for external scholarships from sources outside of the institution.
What will be the cost of tuition?
The projected tuition for fall 2009 is $29,500. The School reserves the right to make tuition adjustments if warranted.
Is the School of Pharmacy accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)?
Accreditation Disclosure Statement
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) accredits Doctor of Pharmacy programs offered by Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy in the United States and selected non-US sites. For a Doctor of Pharmacy program offered by a new College or School of Pharmacy, ACPE accreditation generally involves three steps: Precandidate accreditation status, Candidate accreditation status, and Full accreditation status. Precandidate accreditation status denotes a developmental program that is expected to mature in accord with stated plans and within a defined time period. Precandidate accreditation status is awarded to a new program of a College or School of Pharmacy that has not yet enrolled students in the professional program and authorizes the school to admit its first class. Candidate accreditation status is awarded to a Doctor of Pharmacy program that has students enrolled but has not yet had a graduating class. Full accreditation status is awarded to a program that has met all ACPE standards for accreditation and has graduated its first class. Graduates of a class designated as having Candidate accreditation status have the same rights and privileges of those graduates from a fully accredited program. ACPE conveys its decisions to the various boards of pharmacy and makes recommendations in accord with its decisions. It should be noted, however, that decisions concerning eligibility for licensure by examination or reciprocity reside with the respective state boards of pharmacy in accordance with their state statutes and administrative rules.
The Doctor of Pharmacy program of College of Notre Dame of Maryland, School of Pharmacy was awarded Precandidate accreditation status during the January 7-11, 2009 meeting of the ACPE Board of Directors based upon an on-site evaluation conducted November 5-7, 2008, and discussion with College and School officials. Following the enrollment of the inaugural class of students in fall 2009, an on-site evaluation will be scheduled during academic year 2009-2010 for purposes of gathering additional information to be considered in the Board’s consideration of advancement to Candidate accreditation status. Based upon this evaluation, should the Board feel that Candidate accreditation status cannot be conferred, the School could respond to the Board’s concerns and reapply prior to the graduation of the first class. If Candidate accreditation status is not granted even after reapplication, graduates may not be eligible for licensure as pharmacists. If Candidate accreditation status is granted and the program continues to develop as planned, Full accreditation status of the Doctor of Pharmacy program would be considered by the Board following the graduation of students from the program.
