<p>Why does it seem like so many of the users essays are above the 250-500word threshold suggested? Do you get penalized if you are above the 500 words, or is it considered better that way? I know it shouldn't be tooooo long, but I feel like 500 words is short.</p>
<p>My opinion is to stick within the word limit. Admissions readers read so any essays that they really wouldn’t appreciate a much longer one. Plus following directions is an important part of your application process.</p>
<p>[Admissions</a> Office Says Not To Fret Over Common App Word Limit | News | The Harvard Crimson](<a href=“http://www.thecrimson.com/article/2011/11/15/common-app-new-word-limit/]Admissions”>Admissions Office Says Not To Fret Over Common App Word Limit | News | The Harvard Crimson)</p>
<p>Please also read this article…</p>
<p>[Can</a> Your Common Application Essay Be More than 500 Words?](<a href=“http://collegeapps.about.com/b/2012/07/23/can-your-common-application-essay-be-more-than-500-words.htm]Can”>http://collegeapps.about.com/b/2012/07/23/can-your-common-application-essay-be-more-than-500-words.htm)</p>