The University of Notre Dame's campus is crowned by the Golden Dome atop the Main Building, the university's most recognizable symbol since 1879, with first-year students historically housed together in halls including Zahm, Cavanaugh, and Keenan.
Enrollment
12,183
Total Students
Freshman Class
2,220
Approx.
Move-In Dates
August 21 - August 21, 2026
Fall 2026
Acceptance Rate
11%
Most recent cycle
Move-In
Fall 2026 Move-In Dates
First-year students are not permitted to arrive early for any reason unless part of an approved University program with an early arrival request submitted on their behalf. Register for a Move-In Arrival Time via HomeUnderTheDome.nd.edu after housing assignments are released - detailed arrival information follows in July. Welcome Weekend for first-year students and families begins the same day as move-in and runs through Sunday, August 23.
August 21 - August 21, 2026
Check your assignment in the housing portal for your specific date and time.
Move-in day tips
- Arrive during your assigned window - early arrivals often just wait longer.
- Bring a rolling cart or hand truck; loading-zone carts run out fast.
- Parking near freshman halls fills up quickly - have a backup plan or drop-off spot.
- Loading zones usually enforce a strict time limit (often 30 minutes) before you're expected to move your car to long-term parking.
- Activate your student ID online before you arrive - many schools require it for building and elevator access from day one.
- If you want your bed lofted or the frame height adjusted, check whether your school needs that request submitted online in advance - most won't do it on the spot.
- Check your school's specific package-acceptance window before shipping anything ahead - most won't hold early deliveries outside a set date range.
- Unpack essentials first: bedding, toiletries, and chargers, before anything else.
Housing & Dorms
- Photo coming soon
Zahm House
Traditional · Single-sex
- Photo coming soon
Cavanaugh Hall
Traditional · Single-sex
- Photo coming soon
Keenan Hall
Traditional · Single-sex
Housing Links
Links open University of Notre Dame's website - not always the exact page, but a real starting point.
Orientation
Welcome Weekend (required)
All new students are required to attend one orientation session.
August 21 - August 23, 2026
Orientation tips
- Register as early as your class allows - popular session dates fill up first.
- Bring a parent/guardian if separate family programming is offered.
- Check whether placement testing or advising sign-ups happen the same day.
Costs
Room & Board
$20,500
Estimated / Year
Nearby Essentials
Nearby data coming soon.
More Links
Checklists
Get the Ultimate College Move-In Checklist
A free, printable packing checklist covering everything from bedding to important documents - built for any freshman, including yours at University of Notre Dame.
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