<p>I've just finished writing my Yale Essay, but it's twice the word limit! (500 vs approx. 950). But it isn't boring and the people I have showed it to have found it interesting to read. Cutting it down definitely will affect the flow of the essay and I won't be able to make all the points I'm making. Should I let it be or need I shorten it.</p>
<p>I've created an alternate short version, but even that is around 800-ish.</p>
<p>Hmmm… What does Yale itself say?</p>
<p>[Applying</a> to Yale College | Frequently Asked Questions | Office of Undergraduate Admissions](<a href=“http://www.yale.edu/admit/faq/applying.html#14]Applying”>http://www.yale.edu/admit/faq/applying.html#14)</p>
<p>"We ask that you respect the word limit we suggest. Will we read the words beyond 500? Yes. But if your essay is much longer than 500 words, understand that you will not help yourself by seeming to have ignored our request. "</p>
<p>Your + 90% over the limit is what their stipulations are hoping to prevent, I’m sure.</p>
<p>+50% is probably the maximum they’ll tolerate. Over that and the essay will definitely work against you, no matter how interesting it is. Trying taking out some of your less relevant points - focus and quality are often as important as actual content.</p>
<p>Thanks for the replies :)</p>
<p>I’ll shorten the essay.</p>