Home Admission F.A.Q's How seriously should I take the word or character count?

How seriously should I take the word or character count?

The word counts have generally been guidelines rather than rules unless the wording says "absolutely no more than [a certain number of] words."  If the essay must fit in a specified space, then you will have to adhere to the word limit if you are applying online. Now that many schools require or request that you apply online, there may be a cutoff, so you may have to make some adjustments to avoid having the essay truncated! If it can be sent as an attached Word document, there is some leeway. Otherwise, you may have to send the entire application by "snail mail" if the college allows it, but that may eliminate your opportunity to take advantage of the admissions fee waiver.

Some questions do not specify a word limit. Many essays come with instructions indicating a limit of 150 words, 250 words, 500 words or 750 words in length. Some schools ask you to have a specific number of characters. Try to keep close to the limit. Use your "Tools" to check word count and character count.