Hey fellow applicants! I'm working on my common app essay and I'm wondering about the word limit. How strict are colleges with the word limit? Can I go slightly over, or will that hurt my chances?
Hey there! The Common App essay word limit is 650 words, and it's best to adhere to that limit as closely as possible. While going slightly over may not seem like a big deal, it could potentially give admissions officers the impression that you're unable to follow directions or that you have difficulty with concise writing.
That being said, if you're just a few words over, it's unlikely to be a deal-breaker. However, it's best to err on the side of caution and try your best to stay within the limit. If you're struggling to cut down your essay, consider revising for clarity and eliminating any unnecessary details or repetitive phrases. In the end, it's important to remember that admissions officers will be reading thousands of essays, so being concise and focused in your writing will not only help you stay within the word limit but also keep your essay engaging and memorable. Good luck with your application!
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