<p>How strict is GW on their "no more than 500 words"? I'm over about 100-150 words and since I'm applying to a special program, I find it hard to answer why GW and why the special program in 500 words.</p>
<p>You should call your admissions person and ask. Maybe it makes no difference at all, but you don’t want them to be annoyed by your not following directions. I know, that’s why you asked here, but it’s better to be sure.</p>
<p>Chop it to 500 words. These admissions folks are reading an obscene number of essays a day, and if you can’t explain yourself in 500 words… you’re not succinct enough. :)</p>
<p>I agree with GWGrad, even if they say they aren’t that strict, you want to impress them so following the directions to me would be important. Maybe 50 words over would be alright but I wouldn’t go above that.</p>