<p>Hey everyone. If I am applying to a private school that requires an essay of approximately 500-700 words, how important is it that I stick to that limit? I currently have an essay hovering around 1000, and I really like it. I would like to submit it, but don't want to penalized because of the length. Should I just go ahead and do it, or should I cut 300 words off?</p>
<p>If it’s REQUIRED that the essay is no more than 700 words, then you definitely need to cut out 300 words.</p>
<p>If it’s RECOMMENDED, you technically could submit your 1000 word essay, but I’d advise against it. Most of the time, essays can be shortened without losing much impact/meaning. Moreover, I’d be extremely reluctant to defy a school’s guidelines.</p>