About

See what students say:

Academics

College of the Holy Cross provides "an incredible learning environment for students" through a holistic and self-explorational combination of academics, "strong student life," and "small classes." As a Jesuit liberal arts school with the mission of "men and women for and with others," it sends students into the world with "a broad-based foundation to be successful in a variety of careers." The school encourages students "to reflect on their experiences and continue to better himself/herself as a whole person" and to this end is "dedicated to creating an exciting learning environment" and offering "endless opportunities." One such means to this end is the Montserrat program, which places first-years in one of six interdisciplinary "cluster," with whom they'll live and study, creating a personalized experience that blends classroom and life: where "you're more than just a number in the classroom and on the field." One student attests, "From the acceptance letter alone, I knew that my entire application was read thoroughly and that my character was closely examined." Each incoming class has a dedicated Class Dean that remains with them throughout graduation to provide mentorship and guidance, and additional support can be found in the "fantastic alumni network." Those undergoing the "rigorous" academics say the school equips them "with an intangible set of skills that not only prepares them for a job, but for life." Professors "get to know you on an individual and personal level" and are "always accessible and more than happy to help." As one student puts it, "It is a place where like in the parable of the mustard seed one can grow." One student, recognizing that their work will not go unrewarded, says that Holy Cross "demands enormous amounts of work from its students, but puts them in a great position to succeed."

Student Body

At College of the Holy Cross, "people take their work very seriously" and tend to be "studious with an activity or two that defines their interests and what they do during the weekend." They are also "very put together" and "generally articulate," with "a diverse set of interests" that range from ballroom dance to space exploration. It is rare "to find someone with no extracurricular responsibilities," according to one student. While most are from New England, the main commonality is that "all love being here" and "there is a tremendous sense of community." School pride is rampant among this "uncommonly friendly" group and everyone loves "going to sporting events, especially football and basketball." A student sums up, "If you want to do well academically, have fun on the weekend...study hard and play hard, then you will fit in at Holy Cross."

Campus Life

Because each study cluster lives together, "many of the friends you make your first year will stay with you for years to come," and 88 percent of students remain on the "exceptionally beautiful" campus after their mandatory first year. All types of dietary needs are catered to (the college has previously been selected for a "healthiest dining halls" list), but students also point to "amazing" options in nearby Worcester or Boston, which is just a free 45-mile shuttle away. For those interested, there are "countless opportunities to learn through internships [and] speaker series." Additionally, there are "a multitude" of more than 100 student organizations ranging from academic to the arts, the largest being the Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD), which organizes community service programs in the surrounding area and nationwide. While the library dominates the week, weekends are for letting loose, whether that's "riding the mechanical bull at a local bar" or events sponsored by the Student Government Association "such as karaoke or dances [that] are a blast."

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Contact & Visit

Campus Visits Contact

Contact
Lynn Verrecchia
Director of Admissions

Address
Admissions Office
1 College St.
Worcester, MA 01610

Phone
8004422421

Email
admissions@holycross.edu

Experience College Life

Most Popular Places On Campus
Library
Smith Hall
Joanne Chouinard-Luth Recreation and Wellness Center ("The Jo")
Anthony S. Fauci Integrated Science Complex
Hogan Campus Center

Most Popular Places Off Campus
Shrewsbury Street Restaurants
Worcester Art Museum
Wachusett Mountain
Boston
Providence

Campus Tours

Campus Visiting Center
Monday-Friday
8:30am-5pm
8004422421

Campus Tours
Appointment Required: No
Dates: Varies
Times: Generally M-F; 10AM, Noon, 2PM and 3PM
Average Length: 1 hour

On Campus Interview

Campus Interviews
Yes

Information Sessions
Available

Times
Mid-Feb., April, July, August, Labor Day, Columbus Day

Faculty and Coach Visits

Dates/Times Available
Academic Year

Arrangements
Contact Athletic Department

Advance Notice
1 week

Contact Email Address for Visit
https://goholycross.com/sports/2018/6/27/211719372.aspx

Class Visits

Dates/Times Available
Varies

Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office

Overnight Dorm Stays

Overnight Dorm Stays
Available

Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office

Transportation

Types of Transportation Available to Campus
Logan International Airport in Boston is a 1-hour drive from campus. Worcester Airport Limousine provides service from Logan to the Worcester area; call 800-322-0298 (in Massachusetts), 800-343-1369 (outside Massachusetts), or 508-756-4834. (You can make advance reservations or call on arrival). Greyhound/Trailways and Peter Pan buses serve Worcester.

Driving Instructions to Campus
From I-90 (Massachusetts Tpke.), take Exit 10 (Auburn/Worcester) to I-290 E. From I-290, take Exit 11 (College Square). To reach campus, make the first right turn after exit.

Local Accommodations
LaQuinta Inn and Fairfield Inn and Suites in Auburn; Beechwood Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn in Worcester All offer special rates to Holy Cross visitors
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Admissions

Applicants: 8,670
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Average HS GPA: 0.00






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