<p>I'm writing a personal statement or supplement for one of my schools on the common app. It gives a prompt then says in 50-300 words. I'm at 391 words. I can slim it down my taking out some transitions, "ands"...etc. But are colleges going to be upset, or ignore it if it's at 391? Thanks.</p>
<p>It’s best to simply slim it down. It’ll show the fact you can convey a big message with fewer words. </p>
<p>On Common App, doesn’t the application limit you to the max number of words or characters? How would you be even allowed to go over? I thought it just stopped taking words once you reach the limit.</p>
<p>^ they probably typed it up in a word processor beforehand. </p>
<p>I am a past admissions lead. When essays were too long, I had to deduct points from your application. Depending on your reviewer, they may stop reading after the word limit or may pass over your submission for not following directions. I highly recommend reducing the word count.</p>