College Comparison
Amherst College vs College of the Holy Cross
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Worcester, MA
Total Enrollment
1,914
3,126
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
3,126
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
17.6%
Average GPA
3.90
3.82
SAT Range
1490–1580
1240–1410
ACT Range
33–35
27–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$60
Total Applicants
13,743
9,568
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$57,600
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$36,868
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$57,600
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$57,600
Room & Board
$18,390
—
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
57.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$44,334
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
93.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
92.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$90,543
More Comparisons
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Explore by Location
Amherst is in Amherst, MA
College of the Holy Cross is in Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $36,868 at College of the Holy Cross. Amherst College is $18,622 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At College of the Holy Cross, the typical SAT range is 1240-1410. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while College of the Holy Cross has a graduation rate of 93%. Amherst College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while College of the Holy Cross has a ratio of 9:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At College of the Holy Cross, 57% of students receive aid with an average grant of $44,334.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $90,543 for College of the Holy Cross graduates. Graduates from College of the Holy Cross tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. College of the Holy Cross is located in Worcester, MA in a city: midsize setting.

