We did a practice essay in class and our limit was 500-600 words. Is this the same for the actual common app? I saw some website that said the max number was 650
I saw a few sites say 650 as well, but I was reading some of my friends’ essays who are already in college who have essays with an even greater amount of 650. Is that possible?
The common app essay word limit has changed in the past two years. It used to suggest 250-500 words but didn’t cut you off if you went over. This was the case when my D1 was applying in 2013. Her common app essay was about 675 words.
NOW, the Common App essay is 650 words. 650 words is the maximum, meaning you will be cut off in mid-sentence if go over. Don’t go over.
Individual colleges’ supplements may suggest a limit for their essays or may have a hard maximum as well. You should check the requirements for all your supplements to make sure you adhere to them.