<p>Ok, for my optional essay, I wanted to use the stuff I used in my main essay for Common App, since it's important to me. However, it was originally 780 words and I've cut it to 600, but I don't know that I want to cut much more. Ironically, though, it might be better with the cuts than without, but oh well. Will 600 be too much? Should I try getting it to around 550?</p>
<p>I'd shoot for closer to 550 but 600 probably wouldn't be a huge deal breaker.</p>
<p>Shortened to 585, but I don't know if I want to go any lower.</p>
<p>Yeah Cider, I have a similar problem. =/ </p>
<p>How strict is MIT about word count limits? </p>
<p>My main essay is around 550 words and the short answers are about 120. </p>
<p>I don't know how much more I can cut down...</p>
<p>Should I just keep it as is?</p>
<p>My main essay was 550 words as well. I had no problem.</p>
<p>Mine was 650 (but it still fit on one page) and I got in.</p>
<p>my main one was about 484 words.</p>
<p>^^^EA deferral.</p>