Common App Essay Length

Applying to College Common and Coalition Application
1

<p>My common app essay length is currently 1,037 words.
I've heard that 500-700 is ideal, but it just says 250+, so I'm not sure that the 500-700 rule is even accurate.
I've edited it down from closer to 1,200, and I could probably get it down to 800-900, but it would be extremely concise.
Also, I'm applying to some Ivies and generally very good schools, not sure if that makes a difference.</p>

<p>Is it absolutely necessary to have it at 500-700? If so, is 800 fine? Is it all that bad have 1000+?</p>

2

<p>Is it absolutely necessary to have it down to 500-700 words? No. But many people have found that its the ideal length. Of course your topic and writing style could affect what your ideal length should be. Just keep in mind admission officers have to read a LOT of essays, so its nice to keep the essay in this range to keep them from experiencing boredom or frustration.</p>

3

<p>

If it was “absolutely necessary” to keep it from 500-700, 800 would not be fine…</p>

<p>There is no strict rule, but if you exceed a page, every word after better be worth it, or they’ll lose interest with a long essay.</p>