<p>Regarding the essay,
Would 3 pages be too much? (double-spaced)
I would try to reduce as much as I can..
but would it make the admin officers freak out?</p>
<p>Yes, is there a recommended self-imposed word limit?</p>
<p>If it's elegant and concise all the way, will it matter whether it's 500 words or 1000 words?</p>
<p>There is no need to double spaced. One page is what your goal should be.</p>
<p>Another question, what do you generally put for your additional info. space?
Would explaining my low sat ii scores or some of my low school grades be ok?</p>
<p>Please dudes..
I need to submit the Common App before I leave for vacation..</p>
<p>Making excuses for low grades is hardly ever okay. Only if there were some extinuating circumstances besides "I didn't realize the point of school until it was too late, etc."</p>
<p>Some people put a more in-depth activities list, some put a resume, and some put a short essay on another topic. It's really up to you. But I would stay away from making excuses.</p>
<p>Agree, don't make excuse. Use additional information to expand the EC list. The Common App interface is pretty horrible.</p>