<p>Salutations. I just finished my first essay for the U of I and it's about 370 words, when the app says "300 words or less". I feel if it is condensed any more it will lose substance. How strict is the U of I with their word limit?</p>
<p>Going over some is not a problem. Going over much (and 70 words starts to reach much) can be noticed and looked upon as someone unable to edit his essay. What admin officers, after years of experience, know is that high school students who firmly believe they cannot possibly edit their essay to something close to the word limit are greatly mistaken in their belief.</p>
<p>Hmm. Thanks. I’d rather be safe than sorry so I’ll reluctantly cut it down to 300 words.</p>