<p>The common application says min 250, but is there a generally recognized maximum? A taboo limit perhaps?</p>
<p>If it's over 700, it's too long. The general accepted length is 500 words ish. You can definitely go over 500-700 if it's absolutely necessary. But realize, even admission officers have an attention span... </p>
<p>When I did my essays, I didn't think I could possibly trim them down (I did them full length). Start long then trim. You'll realize how much stuff is unnecessary when you're done. :)</p>
<p>thanks a lot</p>