AdmissionsOS College of the Holy Cross vs Wellesley College
| College of the Holy Cross | Wellesley College | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 17.6% | 14.1% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,240-1,410 | 1,460-1,560 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 27-32 | 33-35 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $38,782 | $25,496 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $80,334 | $86,290 |
| Graduation rate | 87% | 92% |
| Retention rate | 95% | 97% |
| Undergraduates | 3,106 | 2,300 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 9:1 | 7:1 |
| Setting | Worcester, MA | Wellesley, 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 Wellesley College harder to get into?
Wellesley College is more selective, with a 14.1% acceptance rate versus 17.6% at College of the Holy Cross. 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 Wellesley College?
Wellesley College has the lower average net price ($25,496 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.