<p>I have a question about the essay length. The common app says that the essay should fit onto a page, which mine does, but mine has 856 words; is this too much for the main essays?</p>
<p>It couldn't hurt to try to cut it down. Aim for 600-700 words the first time you edit it, then wait a few days and see if you can cut out any more. (If you don't like it after editing it, then go with your original essay or try again.) You'd be surprised how much it helps to focus your paper when you seriously consider what is necessary and what is superfluous. Plus, the admissions reps will probably appreciate it.</p>