What is a good word count for a college essay?
The primary essay for your college application, often called a personal statement, is typically around 400-600 words. The Common App personal statement — which is used as the primary application essay by more than 800 colleges — must be 250-650 words.
Is 500 words too short for Common App essay?
The Common App essay requires you write between 250 and 650 words. Hitting the maximum is great, but make sure not to settle at the minimum. … For the Common App, I would recommend a bare minimum of 500 words, about 75 percent of the maximum.
Is 450 words good for a college essay?
A well-thought out and well-developed essay of any true substance is not only not possible in 250 words, it’s barely possible in 450 words. … With that said, the true sweet spot in Common Application essay writing, for this current year’s prompts and prompts going back over a decade, is 500 to 650 words.
Is it okay if my college essay is 700 words?
4 Answers. Hi, there. If you’re submitting it via the Common Application, then no; it will cut you off and you won’t be able to submit it if the essay is longer than 650 words. Some schools may be more flexible, if you’re applying with their application, so then it’s a case-by-case situation.
Does a 500 word essay have to be exactly 500 words?
500-word essays do not have to be exactly 500 words, but they should be as close as possible. The essay prompt may say “in under 500 words” or “in at least 500 words,” which would state whether 500 is the minimum or maximum word count.
Is a 500 word paragraph too long?
Short paragraphs are easier to read and understand. Writing experts recommend paragraphs of no more than 150 words in three to eight sentences. Paragraphs should never be longer than 250 words.
How long is a 500 word essay?
A 500 word count will create about 1 page single-spaced or 2 pages double-spaced when using normal margins (1″) and 12 pt. Arial or Times New Roman font. Your page count will vary though depending on your margins, font style and size, whether you use multiple spaces after a period, and your paragraph spacing settings.
What is too short for a college essay?
The shortest word limits for college essays are usually around 150 words (less than half a single-spaced page). Rarely will you see a word limit higher than around 650 words (over one single-spaced page).
How long should a college essay be 2020?
Your essay needs to be between 250 and 650 words long. You can’t go over the limit—the online form will cut you off at 650 words. The length includes the title, notes, and any other text you include in the online form. Use your 650 words to tell a focused story and help the admissions folks get to know you.
Is it okay to swear in a college essay?
As expressed in an article of “The Daily Beast,” don’t use profanities in your college essays. It’s a major mistake. Otherwise, he would have gotten in.” If cursing didn’t take the cake, another Ivy League admissions counselor said this about an essay: “We had one great line. …
Does your college essay have to be 650 words?
Main application essays are generally 500-650 words. For example, the Common Application, which can be used to apply to more than 800 colleges, requires an essay ranging from 250-650 words. … While 500 words is the most common college essay length, schools may ask students to write more or less.