What's the acceptance rate for College of the Holy Cross?

I know College of the Holy Cross is a popular choice and I'm in the process of narrowing down my list. Does anyone know what their acceptance rate is lately and any tips for improving my chances?

The acceptance rate at the College of the Holy Cross has held steady around the mid-30% mark over the past few years. However, it can fluctuate a bit from year to year based on the applicant pool.

As for improving your chances of admission, academics are important so aim for strong grades and a rigorous course load, but they're not everything. A well-written essay can help you stand out—it should articulate your intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and sincere interest in Holy Cross. Try to highlight core values of social justice and intellectual and spiritual growth that align with the school's Jesuit identity.

If you have the opportunity, demonstrating interest can also be helpful. Holy Cross does consider demonstrated interest as a factor in their decisions. Attend virtual information sessions or campus tours to show your genuine interest in the college. Remember though that this alone won't secure your acceptance—it's just one piece of the puzzle, along with academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities.

Lastly, consider applying Early Decision if Holy Cross is your top-choice school. As with many colleges, applying ED to Holy Cross could give you a slight edge as it demonstrates your commitment to attending the college if accepted.