Holy Cross College

Holy Cross College (Autonomous) Tiruchirappalli is a highly reputed Arts and Science College for Women in the state of Tamil Nadu. Situated at the heart of 'The Rock City' on the banks of the River Cauvery, Holy Cross College has a unique history of academic excellence. It is a Catholic Institution established in 1923 when higher education for women was considered almost a transgression. It has been in the forefront of women's education for more than a Century. In keeping with its mission, the College admits a number of students from the socially and economically weaker strata of the society, irrespective of religion and caste. It is one of the oldest Colleges for women in South India and is affiliated to Bharathidasan University.

The history of Holy Cross College dates back to 1902, when Mother Sophie a French Missionary set up a primary school with only a room or two and 5 girls. It was accredited by NAAC in 1999 with 5 stars, re-accredited in 2005 with 'A' grade, in 2012 (3rd Cycle) with A Grade 3.5/4, and in 2020 (4th Cycle) with A++ with CGPA Score of 3.75/4. NIRF ranks: 26th (2017), 42nd (2018), 85th (2019), 66th (2020), 49th (2021), 67th (2022), 40th (2023), 41st (2024), 52nd (2025).

At present the College offers 27 UG, 22 PG and 14 Ph.D. programs. There are 186 teaching staff holding doctoral degree out of 319, and 133 non-teaching staff in service. Holy Cross College continues to explore newer terrains with marked signpost of excellence to nurture holistic education for nation building.