Incoming First-Year Students

Deadline Action Item
Mid-May

Activate Network, Gmail and STAR Accounts

An activation email will be sent to the email address you used to apply to the College. Your network and Gmail account are required in order to complete the following tasks.

Get connected 

Mid-May

Log in to myHC 

After you activate your email account, log in to myHC to build your profile and update your notification and privacy settings. Students can use myHC to connect with other students, find out what's going on and join student groups. Students will also use myHC to receive important information about deadlines and opportunities.

Mid-May

Summer Academic Advising Registration Opens

Register for a June online advising appointment with an academic advisor who will help you choose courses for your first semester at Holy Cross. 

Sign Up to Virtually Meet with an Advisor

May 30

Complete Financial Responsibility Agreement (FRA) in STAR

Complete the FRA in STAR after you do your Multi-Factor Authentication. The FRA reviews the College's policies and procedures about billing, payment and collections, as well as student rights and responsibilities. FRA completion is required prior to course registration.

Advising during Gateways Orientation

June 13

Montserrat Seminar Selection

Complete the online selection of Montserrat seminar choices in STAR

Seminar descriptions can be found here.

June 13

Establish Authorized User and Refund Bank Account in TouchNet

Since students must grant permission to others to view and access the eBill in TouchNet - a system separate from STAR - this access should be granted by following the steps in video 2. In case the College ever needs to refund money for an overpayment, students should establish a refund bank account in TouchNet by following the steps in video 9.

June 20

First-Year Questionnaire and Course Preference Form

We advise you not to submit this form until after you speak with an advisor.

Complete the First-Year Questionnaire and Course Preference Form in STAR 

June 20

Fall eBill Sent to Student Holy Cross Email Addresses

Review your fall student account charges and credits in TouchNet and make plans to pay your fall balance in full by August 1. Consider enrolling in a formal payment plan for fall. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

June 20

Housing Accommodations Request

For students with disabilities requesting housing accommodations, please see Documentation Guidelines on the Student Accessibility Services website. To be considered for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please submit your request and upload your documentation to our Accommodate software.

June 28

First-Year Roommate Matching Survey and Housing & Board Agreement

To secure your placement in on-campus housing, please complete and sign your Housing and Board Agreement, including the First-Year Roommate Matching Survey found in our housing software portal called The Housing Director (THD) – Self-Service. This survey is designed to match students by compatibility according to basic lifestyle habits and preferences.

Complete the housing contract on The Housing Director (THD) – Self-Service »

June 30

Log into Ignite

Ignite, the College's intranet, is the home for everything a student needs to succeed on campus. From email and news to STAR and Canvas, Ignite organizes every app, website and resource within a single environment. Access the mobile download instructions in Getting Connected.

Students hang out in Lehy Hall, a collage and posters are on the wall

July 1

Chaplains’ Office Campus Ministry Questionnaire

Students of all faiths and beliefs are invited to learn more about spiritual growth, social justice and community building through Campion House and the Chaplains’ Office by following us on social media @hc_chaplains. And to get to know you better, we encourage you to fill out the Chaplains’ First-Year Questionnaire.

July 8

Holy Cross 101, Required Online Coursework Released

Students will receive instructions via email for completing four required onlines courses titled, Holy Cross 101. The topics include substance use, sexual violence, creating a culture of respect, and constructive dialogue. Each course is expected to take 60-90 minutes. These are due by August 13. 

July 15, or before your team reports, whichever comes first

Varsity Student-Athlete Authorization/Consent 

It is important that the College obtains a complete and up-to-date medical history on all first-year varsity student-athletes. Each year thereafter, your medical record will be reviewed by our certified athletic trainers and updated as needed.

The requested medical information is vital to both our pre-season screening process and our daily care and prevention program offered to all varsity student-athletes. The athletic training office is staffed by licensed, certified athletic trainers who provide care that includes prevention, recognition, evaluation, rehabilitation, and emergency care for all athletic injuries.

All first-year varsity student-athletes are required to complete these medical forms thoroughly and accurately. You will not pass your pre-season screening, and not be allowed to participate in varsity athletics unless these forms are completed and on file with the sports medicine office.

Health and Sports Medicine forms can be accessed on the College's Health Services website. Medical forms required by health services are to be uploaded on your Patient Portal. Please input your required immunizations into your patient portal. Medical forms required by sports medicine are to be mailed to the Sports Medicine office.

If you have any questions, please contact Sports Medicine at 508-793–2627

July 15

Students With Disabilities Requesting Accommodations

Students with disabilities can request accommodations (academic, housing, transportation or dining) to enable full participation in academic and cocurricular pursuits. A student with a disability is defined as one who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the student’s major life activities, has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having the impairment. The College admits qualified students regardless of disability and welcomes students with disabilities into every area of life within the College. Eligibility is determined through an interactive process including a review of medical or professional documentation provided to the office by the student. Please see Documentation Guidelines on the Student Accessibility Services website

To be considered for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please input your request and upload your documentation to our Accommodate software. 

Note: Requests for housing accommodations must be submitted by June 20; please see info above.

July 15

Student ID Card

Take the next step in becoming a Crusader: Submit your photo for your ID card by July 15 so we can have your Crusader OneCard ready for you when you arrive. Don’t delay! You will need your ID card to get into your residence hall, eat at food locations and make purchases at campus retail locations. To submit your photo, log into your OneCard account and follow the directions to “Upload a New Photo.” 

Log into OneCard »

July 15-18

Enrollment

Enrollment for fall courses opens on July 15 at 5:30 pm (ET) and must be completed by July 18 by 5:00 pm (ET). 

Review available first-year courses.

Complete your enrollment in STAR.

Group of 4 students laughing around a table

Aug. 1

Tuition and Fees Payments 

Fall semester payment is due in full if not enrolled in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

Pay my bill 

Aug. 1

Work-Study Jobs - Register for a Hospitality Student Employment Recruitment Meeting 

Sign up to attend a Hospitality student employment recruitment meeting. Access to the form will be sent in an email from diningstudentjobs@holycross.edu.

To become eligible to work on campus, students must complete an I-9 form. You will need to bring your required forms of I.D. necessary to complete the I-9 form to this recruitment meeting. View more information from Human Resources. 

Aug. 1

Student Health Insurance Plan - Enroll or Waive

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all students who are enrolled in a college or university to have health insurance that meets levels mandated by the Commonwealth.

The charge for health insurance is automatically posted on the student’s tuition bill. Students may waive the health insurance plan offered through the College only if they have coverage through a U.S.-based health insurance program that is comparable to the commonwealth’s requirements.

Students who do not have comparable coverage should confirm their acceptance of the College plan by completing the online enrollment form. This permits the College to facilitate your enrollment in the plan before the waiver deadline. Instructions on how to waive or enroll in the health insurance plan will be sent via email by mid-June. The deadline for submission of the waiver is Aug. 1. A new waiver must be completed each year.

You may not waive the health insurance plan if you are an international student or a U.S. citizen living abroad and your health coverage is with an insurance carrier based outside the United States or with a Foreign National Health Service program. After the waiver deadline, a student may enroll in the plan only if they have experienced a loss of coverage from an existing policy. 

More information can be obtained on the Student Accounts website.

Aug. 11 or One Week Prior to Move-In

Medical Records and Immunizations 

All incoming students must complete and submit several medical record forms. It is Massachusetts State Law that all health forms are completed. If you do not hand in your forms, you may be unable to live on campus until forms are submitted. Students are required to submit proof of required immunizations, a recent physical, and the tuberculosis risk assessment

Forms can be accessed on the College's Health Services website. Health Services will accept a physical exam performed within the past year of entry to college.  You must upload all forms into the student’s medical record form into the Patient Portal. Instructions on how to use the portal are found on the Health Services website. Any questions can be directed to healthservices@holycross.edu.

If you move in earlier than August 20, 2025 then you must submit your paperwork one week prior to your arrival.

Aug. 13

Holy Cross 101, Required Online Coursework Deadline

Students must complete the required four online courses, Holy Cross 101, by August 13. The topics include substance use, sexual violence, creating a culture of respect, and constructive dialogue. Each course is expected to take 60-90 minutes. Students will receive email instructions on accessing these courses in early July. 

Aug. 20

Move-In Day

The Class of 2029 will move into their residence halls. See the move-in day website for more information.

Aug. 20

Gateways Orientation

All new students will participate in the entirety of Gateways Orientation. This program will kick off on move-in day and will provide new students the opportunity to learn important information about the College prior to the first day of class and begin to build community and make connections. More information will continue to be shared through the summer months.

Aug. 20

Entering First-Year Student Survey, Class of 2029

You are invited to participate in an entering first-year student survey that asks a variety of questions about you and your aspirations. It is important that you complete the survey in its entirety by August 20, or you will be asked to complete it during orientation.  A link to the survey will be sent to you on Monday, August 11.

Aug. 20

Facility Use Waiver for Recreational Facilities

Prior to using Campus Recreation Facilities, students must sign a one-time, annual Facility Use Waiver.

Access the waiver here

Students participate in an orientation event next to an outdoor fire.

Late November

Spring eBill Sent to Student Holy Cross Email addresses

Review your spring student account charges and credits in TouchNet and make plans to pay your spring balance in full by January 1. Consider enrolling in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

Jan. 1

Tuition and Fees Payments

Spring payment is due in full if not enrolled in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

Incoming Transfer Students

A group of first-generation students at orientation wearing purple shirts and raising their arms.

Deadline Action Item  
Mid-May

Activate Network, Gmail and STAR Accounts. 

An activation email will be sent to the email address you used to apply to the College. Your network and Gmail account are required in order to complete the following tasks.

Get Connected

 
Mid-May

Log in to myHC

After you activate your email account, log in to myHC to build your profile and update your notification and privacy settings. Students can use myHC to connect with other students, find out what's going on and join student groups. Students will also use myHC to receive important information about deadlines and opportunities.

 
May 30

Complete Financial Responsibility Agreement (FRA) in STAR

Complete the Financial Responsibility Agreement in STAR. The FRA reviews the College's policies and procedures about billing, payment and collections, as well as student rights and responsibilities. FRA completion is required prior to course registration.

 
June 13

Establish Authorized User and Refund Bank Account in TouchNet

Establish authorized user and refund bank account in TouchNet. This access can be granted by following the steps in video 2. In case the College ever needs to refund money for an overpayment, students should establish a refund bank account in TouchNet by following the steps in video 9.

 
June 20

Fall eBill Sent to Student Holy Cross Email Addresses

Review your fall student account charges and credits in TouchNet and make plans to pay your fall balance in full by Aug. 1. Consider enrolling in a formal payment plan for fall. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

 
June 20

Housing Accommodations Request

For students with disabilities requesting housing accommodations, please see Documentation Guidelines on the Student Accessibility Services website. To be considered for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please submit your request and upload your documentation to our Accommodate software.

 
June 23

Submit Course Preference Form 

In early June, transfer students will receive a Course Interest Form to submit 6 courses they would like to take in their first semester. The Office of the Registrar will enroll students in 2 of their choices. 

 
June 28

Housing & Board Agreement and Housing Accommodations Request

To secure your placement in on-campus housing, please complete and sign your Housing and Board Agreement, including a Roommate Matching Survey. The survey is designed to match students by compatibility according to basic lifestyle habits and preferences.

 
June 30

Log into Ignite

Ignite, the College's intranet, is the home for everything a student needs to succeed on campus. From email and news to STAR and Canvas, Ignite organizes every app, website and resource within a single environment. Access the mobile download instructions in Getting Connected.

 
July 1

Chaplains’ Office Campus Ministry Questionnaire

Students of all faiths and beliefs are invited to learn more about spiritual growth, social justice and community building through Campion House and the Chaplains’ Office by following us on social media @hc_chaplains. And to get to know you better, we encourage you to fill out the Chaplains’ First-Year Questionnaire.

 
July 8

Holy Cross 101, Required Online Coursework Released

Holy Cross 101 required online coursework is released. Students will receive instructions via email for completing four required onlines courses titled, Holy Cross 101. The topics include substance use, sexual violence, creating a culture of respect, and constructive dialogue. Each course is expected to take 60-90 minutes. These are due by August 13. 

 
July 14-18

Transfer Student Enrollment

Students will enroll in additional courses in STAR to complete their fall schedule.

 
July 15

Students With Disabilities Requesting Accommodations

Students with disabilities can request accommodations (academic, housing, transportation or dining) to enable full participation in academic and cocurricular pursuits. A student with a disability is defined as one who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the student’s major life activities, has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having the impairment. The College admits qualified students regardless of disability and welcomes students with disabilities into every area of life within the College. Eligibility is determined through an interactive process including a review of medical or professional documentation provided to the office by the student. Please see Documentation Guidelines on the Student Accessibility Services website

To be considered for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please input your request and upload your documentation to our Accommodate software. 

Note: Requests for housing accommodations must be submitted by June 20; please see info above.

 

Opening Weekend Service and Mass in Mary Chapel.

 
Aug. 1

Tuition and Fees Payments 

Fall semester payment is due in full if not enrolled in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more. Reach out to Student Accounts with questions at bursar@holycross.edu or by calling 508-793-2521.

 
Aug. 1

Student Health Insurance Plan - Enroll or Waive

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all students who are enrolled in a college or university to have health insurance that meets levels mandated by the Commonwealth.

The charge for health insurance is automatically posted on the student’s tuition bill. Students may waive the health insurance plan offered through the College only if they have coverage through a U.S.-based health insurance program that is comparable to the commonwealth’s requirements.

Students who do not have comparable coverage should confirm their acceptance of the College plan by completing the online enrollment form. This permits the College to facilitate your enrollment in the plan before the waiver deadline. Instructions on how to waive or enroll in the health insurance plan will be sent via email by mid-June. The deadline for submission of the waiver is Aug. 1. A new waiver must be completed each year.

You may not waive the health insurance plan if you are an international student or a U.S. citizen living abroad and your health coverage is with an insurance carrier based outside the United States or with a Foreign National Health Service program. After the waiver deadline, a student may enroll in the plan only if they have experienced a loss of coverage from an existing policy.

More information can be obtained on the Student Accounts website.

 
Aug. 2

Get Your Holy Cross Student ID Card

Submit your photo over the summer so we can have your ID card made and ready for you when you arrive. View submission instructions here.

 
Aug. 11 or One Week Prior to Move-In

Medical Records and Immunizations 

All incoming students must complete and submit several medical record forms. It is Massachusetts State Law that all health forms are completed. If you do not hand in your forms, you may be unable to live on campus until forms are submitted. Students are required to submit proof of required immunizations, a recent physical, and the tuberculosis risk assessment

Forms can be accessed on the College's Health Services website. Health Services will accept a physical exam performed within the past year of entry to college.  You must upload all forms into the student’s medical record form into the Patient Portal. Instructions on how to use the portal are found on the Health Services website. Any questions can be directed to healthservices@holycross.edu.

If you move in earlier than August 21, 2025 then you must submit your paperwork one week prior to your arrival.

 
Aug. 13

Holy Cross 101, Required Online Coursework Deadline

Students must complete the required four online courses, Holy Cross 101, by August 13. The topics include substance use, sexual violence, creating a culture of respect, and constructive dialogue. Each course is expected to take 60-90 minutes. Students will receive email instructions on accessing these courses in early July. 

 
Aug. 21

Move-In Day

Transfer students will move into their residence halls. See the move-in day website for more information.

 
Aug. 21

Gateways Transfer Student Orientation

Gateways Transfer Student Orientation is an opportunity to connect with other transfer students, upperclassmen, faculty, and staff. There will be a series of sessions aimed at familiarizing you with the Holy Cross and Worcester communities.

 
Aug. 21

Facility Use Waiver for Recreational Facilities

Prior to using Campus Recreation Facilities, students must sign a one-time, annual Facility Use Waiver. Access the waiver here.

 

Students in The Jo using treadmills and other workout equipment.

 
Late November

Spring eBill Sent to Student Holy Cross Email addresses

Review your spring student account charges and credits in TouchNet and make plans to pay your spring balance in full by January 1. Consider enrolling in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more.

 
Jan. 1

Tuition and Fees Payments

Spring payment is due in full if not enrolled in a formal payment plan. Please view our helpful videos on eBill access, how to pay, payment plan enrollment, and more.

 

International Students

Whether you will be applying for an F-1 (student) visa, are a U.S. citizen living abroad or a dual US citizen, you will enrich our campus community. We are excited to have you join us at the College of the Holy Cross! All international students are invited and expected to attend Gateways International Student Orientation, which is a pre-orientation program prior to Gateways Orientation for the Class of 2029.  For questions about Gateways International Student Orientation and arriving to the United States, please email Patrick Rogers, Director of Orientation and Transition, at gateways@g.holycross.edu.

 

Incoming Students who require U.S. visas to study at Holy Cross should visit the Office of International Students website to learn about the Form I-20 and supporting documents you must submit. For questions please contact the Assistant Dean of International Students, at internationaldean@holycross.edu.

Campus Life & Resources