<p>Is the maximum length for the personal essay really 500 words? I think I have written a good essay, but its around 600-700 words and I have trouble cutting it down. </p>
<p>Does anyone know if I will be penalized if the essay goes over the word limit, or will the adcom let it pass if it's not ridiculously long?</p>
<p>I called and asked this same question. They specifically said that they would prefer the essay to remain within the word limit. Although we might not actually be penalized, I didn't think that it was really worth the risk. I suppose that the word count is meant to assess the ability to formulate and express your thoughts precisely and effectively. Hope that helps a bit.</p>
<p>i really doubt they'll penalize for being a little over, if it's interesting to read and flowing they probably won't even notice that it's over the word limit, if it isn't interesting to read they likely wont read all the way through, or just scan over it and see if there is anything else that compels them to take you and if there isn't, rejection pile. I don't mean to scare people, they'll give things due consideration, but all colleges are under a time constraint, and admission officers have to evaluate hundred and thousands of apps, it makes their lives easier and more enjoyable and thus more likely to take you if your essay is well written. </p>
<p>i personally feel cutting words should not come at the cost of it being awkwardly worded. i'm no authority.</p>