| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Type: Private, Liberal Arts College
Founded: 1843
Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic (Jesuit)
Motto: In hoc signo vinces ("In this sign, you shall conquer")
Campus Size: 174 acres (scenic hillside campus overlooking Worcester)
Colors: Royal Purple and White
Mascot: The Crusader
Athletics: NCAA Division I (Patriot League)
Holy Cross is known for its rigorous academics and a strong liberal arts curriculum designed to prepare students for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service.
Undergraduate Focus: Holy Cross is exclusively undergraduate, offering a personalized academic experience.
Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in over 40 academic fields.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Average Class Size: 18
Notable Fields of Study:
Economics
Political Science
Biology
English
Psychology
International Studies
Pre-Health and Pre-Law programs
Special Programs:
Study Abroad (60+ programs worldwide)
Summer Research Opportunities
Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program
Holy Cross has a highly selective admissions process, placing a strong emphasis on academic achievement, leadership, and extracurricular involvement.
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 20-40% (varies by year)
Application Process: Common Application, with optional interviews and recommendations
Test-Optional Policy: Holy Cross has been test-optional since 2006.
Financial Aid: Offers need-based aid, and the college meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Student Body: Approximately 3,000 undergraduates
Diversity: Students come from a variety of religious, cultural, and geographic backgrounds.
Residential Life: Over 90% of students live on campus, fostering a tight-knit community.
Clubs and Organizations: 100+ student organizations, including:
Student Government Association
Campus Ministry
Debate Society
The Purple Key Society
Service Opportunities: Emphasis on community service and volunteerism, with programs like the Spring Break Immersion Program and partnerships with local nonprofits.
Holy Cross has a strong tradition of athletics, competing at the NCAA Division I level in the Patriot League.
Varsity Sports: 27 (including basketball, football, soccer, and ice hockey)
Intramural and Club Sports: Popular among students for recreation and competition.
Notable Athletic Achievements: Success in basketball, rowing, and football.
Holy Cross deeply integrates its Jesuit values into academics and campus life. These values include:
Cura Personalis (Care for the Whole Person): Emphasis on individual growth—spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally.
Commitment to Service: Students are encouraged to engage in community service and social justice work.
Interfaith Dialogue: Welcoming students of all faiths and fostering open dialogue on religion and ethics.
Consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S.
Known for its strong alumni network and emphasis on ethical leadership.
Recognized for high rates of student satisfaction, retention, and alumni giving.
Holy Cross has a long list of distinguished alumni in various fields, including politics, literature, business, and entertainment. Examples include:
Dr. Anthony Fauci: Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Clarence Thomas: Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Bob Cousy: Hall of Fame basketball player.
Chris Matthews: Journalist and former host of Hardball.
Address: 1 College Street, Worcester, MA 01610
Proximity to Boston: About 45 miles west (1-hour drive).
Worcester is a vibrant city with cultural, dining, and recreational opportunities, while the Holy Cross campus offers a peaceful and scenic environment.
Holy Cross offers 40+ majors and concentrations across the following divisions:
Arts
Humanities
Natural Sciences
Social Sciences
Humanities:
English
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Classics (Greek, Latin, or a combination)
Modern Languages & Literatures (Majors available in the following languages):
French
German
Italian
Spanish
Chinese Studies
Studies in World Literatures and Cultures
Visual Arts (Studio Art, Art History)
Music
Theatre
Social Sciences:
Economics
Political Science
Sociology
Anthropology
Psychology
History
Education (with options for teacher licensure)
Environmental Studies (Interdisciplinary)
Natural Sciences:
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Physics
Mathematics
Environmental Science (Interdisciplinary)
Neuroscience (Interdisciplinary)
Interdisciplinary Studies:
Africana Studies
Asian Studies
Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies
Peace and Conflict Studies
Health Professions Advising (Pre-Med, Pre-Dental, etc.)
International Studies
Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies
Holy Cross offers a variety of unique programs that allow students to pursue specialized interests:
Pre-Professional Programs:
Pre-Medical/Health Professions
Pre-Law
Pre-Business (Certificate in Business Fundamentals in collaboration with the Ciocca Center for Business, Ethics, and Society)
Honors Programs:
College Honors Program: For highly motivated and academically talented students.
Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program
Teacher Education Program (TEP):
For students interested in pursuing careers in education.
Health Professions Advisory Program:
Offers extensive advising for students preparing for medical, dental, veterinary, or other health-related careers.
Research Opportunities:
Holy Cross emphasizes undergraduate research in natural sciences, social sciences, and the humanities. Students work closely with faculty on projects through:
The Summer Research Program
Honors Thesis opportunities
Study Abroad:
Holy Cross offers extensive study abroad opportunities in over 60 locations worldwide, including:
Italy (Rome, Florence)
England (Oxford, London)
France
Spain
Ireland
Australia
China
Argentina
Community-Based Learning (CBL):
Integrates coursework with community engagement and service projects to provide hands-on experience.
While Holy Cross does not offer dual-degree programs directly, the college has partnerships and pathways to advanced degrees through collaborations with other institutions:
Engineering Dual-Degree Program: Partnership with Columbia University and Dartmouth College.
Business Programs: The Ciocca Center for Business, Ethics, and Society provides resources and connections for students interested in pursuing careers in business.
Some of the most popular and highly sought-after programs at Holy Cross include:
Political Science
Economics
Psychology
Biology (especially for pre-med students)
English
History
International Studies
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Humanities |
|
|
|
English |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Philosophy |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Classics (Greek, Latin, or Combined) |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Modern Languages & Literatures: |
|
|
|
- French |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
- German |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
- Italian |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
- Spanish |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
- Chinese Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Visual Arts (Studio Art, Art History) |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Music |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Theatre |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
|
|
|
|
Social Sciences |
|
|
|
Economics |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Political Science |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Sociology |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Anthropology |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
History |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Education (Teacher Licensure Optional) |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
|
|
|
|
Natural Sciences |
|
|
|
Biology |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Chemistry |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Physics |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Computer Science |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interdisciplinary Studies |
|
|
|
Africana Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Asian Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Peace and Conflict Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
International Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
|
Latin American, Latinx, and Caribbean Studies |
4 Years |
$60,910 |
Academic Excellence:
Rigorous liberal arts curriculum with over 40 majors and minors.
Emphasis on small class sizes and personalized attention (10:1 student-to-faculty ratio).
Welcoming Community:
Holy Cross fosters a diverse, inclusive campus environment and provides ample support to help international students adjust and thrive.
Strong Alumni Network:
A vast network of alumni around the world provides mentorship and career opportunities.
Need-Based Financial Aid:
Holy Cross offers need-based financial aid to admitted international students, meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Study in Worcester, Massachusetts:
Located in the vibrant city of Worcester, which has a mix of cultural, academic, and professional opportunities, and is only about an hour away from Boston.
International students applying to Holy Cross must submit the following:
Application: Common Application (Holy Cross does not have its own application form).
Application Fee: $60 (can be waived for students with financial hardship).
Official Transcripts:
High school transcripts, translated into English if applicable.
English Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 125.
Holy Cross is test-optional for the SAT/ACT, but international students may submit these scores if they feel it strengthens their application.
Recommendation Letters: From a teacher and a school counselor.
Essay/Personal Statement: As part of the Common Application.
Optional Interview: Highly encouraged for international students to showcase their unique background and experiences.
Holy Cross is need-blind in admissions for international students, meaning financial need does not affect admissions decisions.
The college guarantees to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted international students.
International students must submit the CSS Profile to be considered for financial aid.
1. Types of Admission Plans
Holy Cross offers three application plans for undergraduate admissions:
Early Decision I (Binding): Deadline: November 15
Early Decision II (Binding): Deadline: January 15
Regular Decision (Non-Binding): Deadline: January 15
2. Application Requirements
A. Application Platform
Students must submit their application through the Common Application.
Holy Cross does not have its own application form.
B. Required Documents
Completed Common Application:
Includes the main application form and a personal statement/essay.
High School Transcript:
Official transcripts from grades 9–12, including senior year courses.
School Report & Counselor Recommendation:
Your school counselor must complete and submit the school report.
Teacher Recommendation Letter:
One letter of recommendation from a teacher (preferably in a core academic subject).
Mid-Year Report:
Submit your most recent grades from senior year (after they become available).
C. Standardized Testing (Optional)
Holy Cross has been test-optional since 2006.
Students can choose whether or not to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
If submitted:
SAT Code: 3282
ACT Code: 1810
Students who do not submit test scores are not disadvantaged in the admissions process.
D. English Proficiency (For International Applicants Only)
International students whose first language is not English must submit proof of English proficiency through one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.5.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 125.
E. Application Fee
$60 (can be waived for students with financial need).
F. Optional Components
Interview:
Recommended but not required.
Students can request interviews with admissions representatives or alumni.
International students are encouraged to participate in virtual interviews.
Supplemental Materials:
Students with talents in art, music, theatre, or athletics may submit portfolios or highlight reels.
3. Holistic Admission Approach
Holy Cross uses a holistic review process, meaning they evaluate the entire application package, focusing on:
Academic Achievement:
Emphasis on GPA, class rank (if applicable), and rigor of high school curriculum.
Preference for students who challenge themselves with honors, AP, IB, or other advanced courses.
Extracurricular Involvement:
Leadership roles, community service, sports, arts, internships, or part-time jobs are highly valued.
Personal Qualities:
Demonstrated through essays, recommendations, and interviews.
The college looks for intellectual curiosity, commitment to social justice, and a willingness to contribute to the Holy Cross community.
4. Deadlines and Decision Notification
Admission Plan |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
Mid-February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
Late March |
Enrollment Deposit Deadline (for all accepted students): May 1.
5. Financial Aid Application Process
Holy Cross is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Required Documents for Financial Aid:
CSS Profile (for domestic and international students).
FAFSA (for U.S. citizens and permanent residents only).
Tax Documents (as requested by the financial aid office).
Financial Aid Deadlines:
Early Decision I: November 15
Early Decision II: January 15
Regular Decision: January 15
6. Tuition and Costs (2024–2025 Academic Year)
Expense Category |
Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition |
$60,910 |
|
Room and Board |
$18,100 |
|
Mandatory Fees |
$1,700 |
|
Personal Expenses (Estimated) |
$1,000–$1,500 |
|
Total Estimated Cost |
$82,000–$84,000 |
Holy Cross offers financial aid packages that may include scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans to make education affordable.
7. International Student Admission Process
International students follow the same admission process as domestic students, with a few additional requirements:
English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo).
Student Visa Support:
Once admitted, international students receive an I-20 Form to apply for an F-1 Student Visa.
Financial Documentation:
International students must demonstrate the ability to cover the cost of attendance (or provide evidence of financial aid).
8. Contact Information
For questions or further assistance during the admission process, students can contact:
Admissions Office:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 (508) 793-2443
Mailing Address: College of the Holy Cross
Office of Admissions
1 College Street, Worcester, MA 01610, USA
9. Key Highlights
Holy Cross is need-blind in admissions for U.S. students and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.
Offers a test-optional policy, allowing students to decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores.
A supportive and inclusive environment, particularly welcoming to first-generation and international students.
The College of the Holy Cross has one main intake per year for undergraduate programs, starting in the fall semester. The details are as follows:
Intake Plan |
Application Deadline |
Notification Date |
Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
Late August/September |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
Mid-February |
Late August/September |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
Late March |
Late August/September |
Holy Cross does not offer spring or summer intake for first-year undergraduate students.
Transfer students have a separate intake process, typically applying by May 1 for the fall semester.
To be eligible for admission, students must meet certain academic and other requirements. Holy Cross follows a holistic review process, meaning both academic and personal achievements are considered.
High School Diploma (or equivalent):
Applicants must have successfully completed a high school education with a strong academic record.
Holy Cross encourages students to take a rigorous curriculum, including honors, AP (Advanced Placement), or IB (International Baccalaureate) courses if available.
Minimum Academic Coursework (Recommended):
English: 4 years
Mathematics: 3–4 years
Science: 3 years (including 2 years of lab science)
History/Social Studies: 3 years
Foreign Language: 2–3 years of the same language
Additional electives or advanced coursework (if available) are encouraged.
GPA Requirements:
Holy Cross does not have a fixed GPA requirement, but competitive applicants generally have strong academic performance in high school, often with a 3.5 GPA or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Holy Cross has been test-optional since 2006.
Students can decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
Typical SAT Score Range (if submitted): 1330–1480 (on a 1600 scale)
Typical ACT Score Range (if submitted): 30–33
Note: International students may still need to submit English proficiency test scores (see below).
Ranking Agency |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked (QS primarily ranks global research universities, while Holy Cross is a liberal arts college focused on undergraduate education.) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Ranked among the Top 35 National Liberal Arts Colleges in the United States. |
|
Forbes (America’s Top Colleges) |
Ranked among the Top 100 Colleges in the U.S. |
|
Washington Monthly |
Ranked among the Top Liberal Arts Colleges for contributions to public good (social mobility, research, and service). |
|
The Princeton Review |
Consistently included in the Best 388 Colleges guide, with strong ratings for academics, campus life, and alumni networks. |
|
Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education |
Ranked as one of the Top Colleges in the U.S. with high marks for student outcomes and teaching excellence. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewability |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Holy Cross Need-Based Scholarships |
- Determined by demonstrated financial need through the CSS Profile and FAFSA (for U.S. students). |
(up to full tuition) |
Renewable for all 4 years, provided the student continues to demonstrate financial need. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
- Exceptional academic performance, leadership, or unique talents. |
Typically $5,000–$25,000/year |
Renewable based on maintaining satisfactory academic progress. |
|
Rev. John E. Brooks Scholarship |
- For students from underrepresented groups or those who promote diversity on campus. |
(up to full tuition) |
Renewable for 4 years. |
|
College-Specific Grants |
- Awarded to students with financial need who meet other institutional priorities. |
N/A |
Renewable based on eligibility. |
|
Federal Pell Grant |
- For U.S. students with exceptional financial need (based on FAFSA). |
Up to $7,395/year (2024-2025) |
Determined annually based on FAFSA. |
|
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) |
- For U.S. students with exceptional financial need (based on FAFSA). |
$100–$4,000/year |
Renewable based on FAFSA results. |
|
State-Specific Grants |
- U.S. students may qualify for grants based on their state of residence. |
N/A |
Determined annually by state. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
- Need-based financial aid available for admitted international students. |
(up to full tuition) |
Renewable for 4 years, subject to demonstrated need. |
|
Work-Study Program |
- For students with financial need (domestic and international). |
Up to $3,500/year |
Available annually. |
Accommodation Facility |
Details |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing |
- Over 90% of students live on campus in residence halls. |
|
|
Residence Halls |
- Traditional dormitory-style housing. |
|
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
- Available for upperclassmen. |
|
|
Specialty Housing Options |
- Themed Communities: Includes Honors Housing, Wellness Housing (substance-free), and Living-Learning Communities. |
|
|
First-Year Student Housing |
- Most first-year students live in traditional residence halls, fostering community building. |
|
|
Room and Board Costs |
- Includes accommodation and meal plans. |
$18,100/year |
|
Meal Plans |
- Standard Plan: Unlimited dining with flexible dining dollars. |
Included in Room & Board Cost |
|
Utilities and Internet |
- All residence halls include free Wi-Fi, heating, electricity, and water. |
Included |
|
Laundry Facilities |
- Located in all residence halls. |
Included |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
- Limited off-campus housing options available. |
($8,000–$15,000/year) |
1. A Tight-Knit Community
Holy Cross is known for its close-knit campus community, where students, faculty, and staff develop meaningful connections. With about 3,000 undergraduate students and a residential campus where over 90% of students live, Holy Cross fosters a strong sense of belonging and collaboration. The Jesuit values of cura personalis (care for the whole person) shape the culture, ensuring that students feel supported both academically and personally.
2. Residential Life
Holy Cross is a residential college, meaning most students live on campus for all four years.
First-year students typically reside in traditional residence halls designed to foster friendships and community.
Upperclassmen can live in apartment-style housing or themed living communities like Wellness Housing or Living-Learning Communities.
Residence halls provide common spaces, study lounges, and events to bring students together.
Living on campus ensures easy access to resources, events, and social opportunities.
3. Extracurricular Activities
Holy Cross offers 100+ student organizations, allowing students to explore their passions and meet others with similar interests. These include:
Academic and Professional Clubs: Economics Society, Pre-Health Professions Club, Mock Trial, etc.
Cultural and Diversity Organizations: International Students Organization (ISO), Black Student Union (BSU), Caribbean African Student Assembly (CASA), Latin American Student Organization (LASO), and more.
Performing Arts and Creative Groups: The Purple Pitches (a cappella), Theatre Group, Dance Ensemble, and Visual Arts Society.
Media and Publications: The Crusader (student newspaper), WCHC Radio, and the Purple Key Yearbook.
Service Organizations: Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD) is the largest student organization, with opportunities to volunteer in the local Worcester community.
Recreation and Outdoor Activities: Students can join outdoor adventure clubs, intramural sports, or hiking trips.
4. Athletics and Recreation
Holy Cross competes in NCAA Division I sports as a member of the Patriot League.
Popular varsity sports include basketball, football, soccer, rowing, and ice hockey.
For non-varsity athletes, the college offers club sports (like rugby and ultimate frisbee) and a robust intramural program, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball.
The Luth Athletic Complex includes state-of-the-art facilities for fitness, training, and recreation.
5. Campus Events
The college hosts numerous events to engage students throughout the year:
Orientation Programs: Designed to help first-year students transition to campus life.
Hogan Campus Center Events: Regular movie nights, trivia games, and guest speakers.
Spring Weekend: An annual celebration featuring concerts, games, and campus-wide activities.
Cultural Festivals: Events like International Education Week and Multicultural Showcases celebrate diversity on campus.
Holy Cross Athletics Games: Students rally around their teams, showing school spirit at games.
6. Spiritual Life
As a Jesuit college, Holy Cross emphasizes spiritual growth, reflection, and service to others:
The Office of the College Chaplains offers opportunities for spiritual exploration through retreats, discussions, and interfaith dialogue.
Mass and other Catholic services are regularly held in the Chapel of St. Joseph Memorial.
Students from all religious traditions are welcome, and Holy Cross supports interfaith initiatives and events.
7. Study Spaces and Academic Resources
Holy Cross provides numerous places for students to focus on their academics:
Dinand Library: A hub for research and quiet study.
Academic Centers: Writing and peer tutoring services are available to help students excel.
Group study rooms and common spaces are located throughout campus for collaboration.
8. Service and Social Justice
Rooted in its Jesuit mission, Holy Cross encourages students to engage in service and pursue social justice:
Students participate in community service through the Student Programs for Urban Development (SPUD), working with local schools, shelters, and nonprofits.
The college offers immersive service trips, such as the Spring Break Immersion Program, where students volunteer in underserved communities across the U.S.
There are frequent discussions, panels, and events focused on ethics, justice, and making a difference in the world.
9. Dining and Food Options
Holy Cross dining services are known for their high-quality food options:
The Kimball Dining Hall offers diverse meals, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly options.
Coffee shops and cafes around campus, such as Cool Beans, provide grab-and-go snacks and coffee.
Sustainability is emphasized, with locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
10. Proximity to Worcester and Boston
Worcester: Holy Cross is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, the second-largest city in New England. The city offers cultural attractions, restaurants, theaters, and parks for students to explore.
Boston: Only about an hour away by car or train, Boston provides additional opportunities for internships, networking, and entertainment.
11. Career Development
The Center for Career Development plays a key role in preparing students for life after graduation:
Offers career counseling, resume workshops, and mock interviews.
Hosts job fairs and networking events with the extensive Holy Cross alumni network.
Helps students secure internships and research opportunities both locally and globally.
12. International Student Life
Holy Cross has a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students:
The Office of International Students provides guidance on visas, cultural adjustment, and academic success.
International students participate in events like International Education Week and join cultural organizations to share their heritage.
13. Alumni Network
Holy Cross has a strong alumni network of graduates who are highly engaged with the college. Alumni frequently return to campus for events, mentor students, and provide networking opportunities in industries such as business, medicine, law, and the arts.
1. Career Outcomes
Holy Cross graduates consistently achieve success in their chosen fields, with the college reporting strong placement rates. Key statistics include:
Placement Rate: Over 90% of graduates are employed, enrolled in graduate school, or engaged in meaningful service work within 6–12 months of graduation.
Graduate School Acceptance Rate:
Medical School: Approximately 80% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.
Law School: Over 85% acceptance rate for qualified applicants.
Graduates secure positions in diverse industries, including business, healthcare, technology, education, and nonprofit work.
2. Top Employers
Holy Cross graduates are recruited by a variety of leading companies and organizations. Some notable employers include:
Finance and Consulting: Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, PwC, EY (Ernst & Young), Bank of America, Fidelity Investments.
Technology and Engineering: IBM, Google, Oracle, HubSpot.
Healthcare and Research: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Education and Nonprofit: Teach for America, Jesuit Volunteer Corps, AmeriCorps.
Government and Law: U.S. Department of State, Peace Corps, Department of Justice.
3. Internship Opportunities
Internships are a key part of career preparation at Holy Cross. The Center for Career Development helps students secure internships in various industries. Key highlights include:
Internship Funding: Holy Cross offers funding for unpaid or low-paid internships to ensure all students have access to career-building opportunities.
Internship Locations: Students intern across the U.S. and abroad, with a focus on cities like Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C.
Notable internships include placements at:
J.P. Morgan
Microsoft
Smithsonian Institution
Boston Children's Hospital
U.S. Congress
4. Career Development Resources
The Center for Career Development offers extensive support to help students transition from college to their careers:
Individual Career Counseling: Personalized guidance on career exploration, resume building, and job search strategies.
Workshops and Events:
Resume and cover letter workshops.
Networking events and career fairs.
Industry-specific panels and employer info sessions.
Handshake Platform: A career management tool connecting students with job postings, internships, and events.
Alumni Mentorship: The strong alumni network actively supports current students by offering mentorship, career advice, and job referrals.
5. Graduate School and Fellowships
Holy Cross students are well-prepared for graduate and professional schools. Many alumni pursue advanced degrees at prestigious institutions, including:
Law Schools: Harvard Law School, Georgetown University, Boston University School of Law.
Medical Schools: Harvard Medical School, Yale School of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine.
Business Schools: MIT Sloan School of Management, Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Other Fields: Columbia University, Stanford University, University of Oxford.
The college also supports students in applying for competitive fellowships, such as:
Fulbright Fellowships
Rhodes Scholarships
Truman Scholarships
Marshall Scholarships
6. Popular Career Paths
Holy Cross graduates enter a variety of fields after graduation, thanks to the versatility of their liberal arts education. Popular career paths include:
Finance and Consulting
Education and Teaching
Healthcare and Medicine
Technology and Data Science
Nonprofit and Social Justice Work
Law and Government
Media and Communications
7. Alumni Network
The Holy Cross alumni network is a significant asset for students:
Alumni are highly engaged and eager to mentor students, provide internships, and assist with job placements.
Networking events and the Crusader Connections alumni platform allow students to build relationships with professionals across industries.
8. Notable Alumni
Holy Cross boasts many successful alumni across various industries, including:
Dr. Anthony Fauci: Renowned immunologist and former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Clarence Thomas: Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Bob Cousy: Hall of Fame NBA player.
Chris Matthews: Journalist and former host of Hardball.
Numerous leaders in business, education, healthcare, and public service.
9. Placement Support for International Students
Holy Cross provides dedicated career services for international students, including:
Visa and work authorization support (e.g., CPT and OPT guidance).
Networking opportunities with global alumni.
Job search resources tailored to international students.
10. Post-Graduation Service
In alignment with its Jesuit values, many Holy Cross graduates choose to engage in service programs before starting full-time jobs or graduate school. Popular options include:
Jesuit Volunteer Corps
Peace Corps
AmeriCorps
Teach for America
The acceptance rate of the College of the Holy Cross, USA, typically ranges between 20% and 40%, depending on the application year and the competitiveness of the applicant pool. Holy Cross is considered a selective liberal arts college, attracting highly qualified students from across the United States and around the world.
Application Volume: The number of applications has been steadily increasing over the years, which affects the acceptance rate.
Early Decision vs. Regular Decision:
Applicants who apply through Early Decision (ED) tend to have a higher acceptance rate because ED demonstrates strong interest in attending Holy Cross.
Regular Decision is more competitive due to the larger pool of applicants.
Holistic Admissions Approach: Holy Cross evaluates applicants based on:
Academic performance (GPA, course rigor, class rank)
Extracurricular involvement
Leadership qualities
Essays and recommendation letters
Optional SAT/ACT scores (Holy Cross has been test-optional since 2006).
Early Decision (ED): Higher acceptance rate (~60–70%) due to the demonstrated commitment of ED applicants.
Regular Decision (RD): Lower acceptance rate (~20–30%), as it is more competitive.
College of the Holy Cross
1 College Street
Worcester, MA 01610
USA