<p>Common app asks for 500, can I got to 550?</p>
<p>I'm only asking because I'm cutting a 750 word essay down to fit this requirement and I've already cut out some of the good stuff. I might also use this essay for a UVa topic (same word limit).</p>
<p>there have been tons of threads on this subject, and i think the consensus is pretty much yeah, you can go over. many people have said they submitted theirs with 750 words, and got accepted. from the commonapp.org FAQ:</p>
<p>The 250-500 word limit is a guideline, and colleges do not count words. They do not mind if it is slightly longer/shorter, and value quality over quantity.
College admissions officers are far more concerned that the essay is well written, proofread (not just spell-checked), well thought-out, etc. Do not get caught up in the “micro” (words, spacing, font size, color of ink). They are looking for the “macro”: does the student write well and what can they learn about this person from his/her essay? </p>
<p>you can search for other threads regarding length to see what else people have said, but I think the bottom line is don't cut "good stuff," just eliminate unnecessary stuff, like changing passive voice to active etc.</p>
<p>exactly, it is all opportunity cost. 50 words is really nothing. They won't even notice. The important part is how much those words add to your essay.</p>
<p>thanks, that's just the answer I was hoping for.</p>