<p>I'm applying as a transfer student, and I'm currently at 1110 words (of a 750-1000 word suggestion).</p>
<p>How firm is this limit? The app says to "Be concise, but tell the whole story even if you need a little more space." I do cover quite a few topics in my essay, and I would like to say that I am an adequate writer, but I don't want to appear as someone that ignored the suggestion.</p>
<p>It’s only a recommended limit, not a strict guideline.</p>
<p>110 words is a decent bit over though. I would cut it down a little. 1000 words should be more than enough to write a good essay. There is no reason to risk anything.</p>
<p>That much over is fine. I spoke to one of the counselors at the UW admissions office, and she said that they place that suggested limit so they don’t get essays at 2000-3000 words (but they still do). I sent in mine at about 1120 and when I told her that my PS was that long, she said it wouldn’t be a problem.</p>
<p>As long as you are using those words to be efficient and conducive to conveying the message you want to convey, don’t worry.</p>