<p>Most universities on the Common App have a box for their supplements that caps your essay at their limit (e.g. 300 words). However, there are a few universities that ask for you to upload your essay instead of typing it directly on to the Common App, but still have a word limit. Would it be fine if for these school's supplements, my essay is 20-30 words over the limit?</p>
<p>I don’t think that it would be “fine,” but I doubt that an admissions officer will count the number of words in your essay. But, if someone does count, they may wonder about your ability to follow directions. Why take the chance? Use the opportunity to show how good a writer and an editor you are.</p>
<p>Thank you MiddKid. Nice answer!</p>