<p>Ohio State University says, "Limit each answer to 250 words"</p>
<p>One of my essays was 314; my other one was shorter than 250.</p>
<p>Is that ok?</p>
<p>I'd say no. Cut down the 314 to 250 or less. They say they want that for a reason. Everyone can write an essay more than 250 words, they won't be impressed if you hand in something longer than what they ask for.</p>
<p>Most people go by the 10% rule (that you'd be good up to 275). Of course, there are also people who FAR over that (by which I mean... you're 314 is not bad at all compared to some people) and still get accepted. Most colleges are lenient about this and mean it only as a general guideline... a loose, general guideline. But personally, I think shorter essays are better and easier for the admissions people to read.</p>