Essay Length

<p>I know it only specifies a minimum on the CommonApp (Around 250 words), but does anyone know of a maximum? My essay is around 900 words so is that too long? On another note, is there anyone who would like to read it over and comment on maybe some things I can cut out?
Thanks</p>

<p>Length doesn’t matter. But you should try to be concise.</p>

<p>Bumpp anyone else have any light on this?</p>

<p>900 words is pushing it. 500-700 is typically the recommended amount. Unless your essay is engaging and interesting throughout its entirety, I suggest you tighten it up a bit. The last thing you want is for an adcom to get bored reading your paper.</p>

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<p>No, essays can be too long: admissions officers have finite time.</p>

<p>I agree that 900 is probably too long. Yale, for example, prefers under 500.</p>

<p>My first draft was about 1500 words and ended up under 700. Edit, edit, edit.</p>

<p>@silverturtle I guess if the story is very interesting. 900 words can be accepted.</p>

<p>It would have to be very compelling. If your essay is 900 words long, there are likely several places where you could shorten it and not lose its effectiveness.</p>