College of the Holy Cross (CHC, ) Introduction and Academics

Introduction

The only Jesuit Catholic college in the country to offer an exclusively undergraduate liberal arts education, College of the Holy Cross enjoys a well-deserved reputation as one of the preeminent schools in the United States. Small class sizes, devoted faculty members, and a challenging curriculum have made the college an increasingly popular choice for many top-notch high school students. Others are attracted to the beautiful campus, active student body, and friendly living/learning environment. Whatever their reasons for choosing Holy Cross, few students are disappointed when they arrive, as evidenced by the school

Information Summary

Ranks 12th in Massachusetts and 95th overall. See the entire top 2,000 colleges and universities list
Overall Score (about)	95.1
Total Cost On-Campus Attendance	$69,190
Admission Success rate	N/A
Student Ratio Students-to-Faculty	10 : 1
Retention (full-time / part-time)	95% / N/A
Enrollment Total (all students)	2,939

Academics

The academic atmosphere is one of cooperation rather than cutthroat competition. Although some have complained that As are becoming increasingly scarce and, therefore, more highly coveted, most students are quick to assist their fellow classmates who are struggling with a concept. During exam periods, it is not uncommon to see large study groups congregating in Dinand Library

Most Popular Fields of Study

Gallery

Admissions

The admissions office receives, on average, applications from more than 7,000 students who are competing for only 700 places in the first-year class. Though the Admissions Committee considers many factors before making its decision, those students who demonstrate a pattern of superior academic performance in high school do a great deal to improve their chances of gaining acceptance to the college. This is confirmed by the fact that nearly all of the entering students graduated in the top twenty percent of their high school class and an overwhelming majority come with Advanced Placement or honors coursework on their transcripts. In recent years, the average SAT I score has exceeded 1280 (based on 1600), though few on campus consider this statistic a meaningful measure of success in either the admissions process or the school

Financial Aid

Tuition, room, and board fees total around $45,000; the cost of attending the college, however, should not deter anyone from applying. The college has a comprehensive financial aid program, with more than fifty-seven percent of the student body receiving some form of assistance. Holy Cross makes every attempt to meet the demonstrated financial need of every admitted applicant through a mix of scholarships, work-study, and loans.

To apply for assistance, an incoming student must indicate on the admissions application that he or she would like to be considered for financial aid. Also, a student must file both a Free Application for Federal Student Assistance (FAFSA) and register with the College Scholarship Service by filing a PROFILE document to be considered for both Federal Student Assistance and internal scholarships. The Financial Aid Form must be submitted as soon after January 1 as possible, and no later than February 1.

Student Financial Aid Details

Ranks 3844th for the average student loan amount.
Secrets to getting the best scholarships and financial aid in Massachusetts.

Students

Although a heavy workload keeps most students fairly occupied, evenings and weekends serve as a welcome opportunity to relax, catch up with friends, and explore Worcester. Crossroads Grill offers great food and free on-campus musical entertainment until 2:00 A.M. For those who are of age, the Pub provides a convenient and comfortable place to catch the latest sporting event or enjoy a beer with friends. Students display their purple pride at the Hart Center, where they cheer on the Crusaders in Division 1 Basketball and Hockey. Following the game, students migrate to Caro Street for a celebration at any of the several off-campus apartments. Fortunately, a mature and laid-back attitude toward drinking prevails at the school and few students report pressure to imbibe from their peers. When not on campus, students can be found dining in the fine eateries of Worcester

Student Enrollment Demographics

Student Graduation Demographics

Athletics

Most of the college

Alumni

Holy Cross students are frequently asked,

Faculty

The faculty receives high marks from the student body. Recent surveys reveal that students find their professors to be both very intelligent and highly accessible, traits not often shared in today

College of the Holy Cross