AdmissionsOS College of the Holy Cross vs Smith College
| College of the Holy Cross | Smith College | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 17.6% | 21% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,240-1,410 | 1,420-1,540 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 27-32 | 32-35 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $38,782 | $27,579 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $80,334 | $86,030 |
| Graduation rate | 87% | 89% |
| Retention rate | 95% | 94% |
| Undergraduates | 3,106 | 2,544 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 9:1 | 8:1 |
| Setting | Worcester, MA | Northampton, MA |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | $60 | None |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is College of the Holy Cross or Smith College harder to get into?
College of the Holy Cross is more selective, with a 17.6% acceptance rate versus 21% at Smith College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, College of the Holy Cross or Smith College?
Smith College has the lower average net price ($27,579 versus $38,782). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.