Kaitlyn Richards ‘29
News Editor
Under the bright spring sun, the College of the Holy Cross welcomed the recently admitted Class of 2030 to Accepted Students Day on Sunday, April 12, 2026, an event defined by energy, excitement, and a look into their future. Prospective students and their families filled the Hill, eager to experience the Holy Cross community that may soon be their home.
The Class of 2030 marks a historic milestone for admissions to the College. For those interested in attending Holy Cross, they had the opportunity to apply for admittance through the Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision tracks. For this application cycle, the admissions committee reviewed over 10,600 applications for prospective students, marking an 11 percent increase in the number of applications received from the previous two admission years. In doing so, the Class of 2030 set a record acceptance rate of 17 percent, the highest in College history, with prospective students representing more than 48 states, 18 countries, and 930 high schools.
Throughout the day, accepted students had the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sessions designed to introduce them, and their families to all aspects of campus life. The day began with registrations starting at 9 a.m. in the Luth Athletic Complex, before students headed off to their first sessions. One of the beginning sessions was the “Living the Mission” panel in the Prior Performing Arts Center, which emphasizes the college’s commitment to its Jesuit values, which set the tone of expectations for the remainder of the day.
Academic and student life-based sessions continue with “Montserrat: The First Year Experience” which introduces students to the signature program, as well as the living-learning communities. Additional panels focused on topics such as the programs available through the Career Development Center, the opportunities to study abroad, and resources for student success.
Outside, the campus buzzed with liveliness, as food trucks offering a variety of lunch options and the various acapella groups performed on the Hoval. Current students answering questions as families walked by, pointing out the specific aspects of Holy Cross in which they enjoy the most, and providing helpful suggestions for the incoming class. The day continued as campus tours ran continuously allowing prospective students to explore academic buildings, residence halls, and common spaces while hearing from current students about their experiences. Additionally, a browsing fair was available inside of Hogan Ballroom where families had the opportunity to speak with club leaders, academic resources, and ultimately gain more insight into the co-curriculars offered on campus.
“It was an extremely exciting and fulfilling experience to be a part of greeting the incoming students coming to Holy Cross for Accepted Students Day,” said Charlotte Kerrigan ‘29. “I really enjoyed welcoming my future classmates to the Hill as well as representing the Cheerleading Team during the event. Being able to interact throughout the day, and being one of the first faces to welcome them to Holy Cross made the experience meaningful. Accepted Students Day is an amazing experience for both current and future students.”
Ultimately, Accepted Students Day offered prospective students an immersive preview of life at Holy Cross, including campus tours, student panels, and academic showcases. This event allowed students to actively envision themselves as members of the College community prior to the commitment deadline. Admitted students will have until National Decision Day on May 1, 2026, to make their final decision and submit their enrollment.
Featured image courtesy of Holy Cross Admissions
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