What's the typical length for a college personal essay?
I'm currently working on my Common App personal statement, but I'm confused about how long it should actually be. I know there's a word limit, but should I be aiming for as close to the limit as possible, or is it okay if I'm a bit under? Also, is there a general expectation for supplemental essays or do those vary more?
If anyone could share how many words their essay ended up being or any advice about ideal length, I'd appreciate it. I'm nervous about not saying enough, but also don't want to ramble!
If anyone could share how many words their essay ended up being or any advice about ideal length, I'd appreciate it. I'm nervous about not saying enough, but also don't want to ramble!
1 week ago
•
4 views
Roger Lopez
• 1 week ago
Advisor
The Common App personal statement has a strict word limit of 650 words, and you need to have at least 250 words. Most students aim for somewhere between 600 and 650 words. It's totally okay if you're 10-20 words under the maximum, as long as your essay feels complete and focused.
The goal is to use your space efficiently. If you can express your story in 560 words without losing any depth or detail, that can absolutely work. But you don't want to submit something much shorter unless every word truly counts. Think of the upper end of the range (say, 620-650) as giving you more room for personal details, reflection, and vivid moments—often, that depth is what makes an essay stand out.
For supplemental essays, the word count can vary a lot. Some schools have 100-150 word short answers, others might give you 300 or even 500 words. Always pay close attention to each school's stated maximum. For supplements, it’s best to get within 10-15% of the limit if you have something meaningful to say. For example, if the limit is 250 words, aiming for 220-250 words is great, but 150 would usually be too short unless the prompt is extremely targeted.
Personally, my own Common App essay was about 635 words. I found the biggest challenge was trimming extra phrases and making sure every paragraph advanced my message. Sometimes, essays get better when you tighten them up—every sentence should serve a purpose.
My advice is to draft your story first, then revise with the word count in mind but don't stress about hitting exactly 650. Prioritize clarity, depth, and authenticity. For supplements, use the space you’re given, focusing on the quality of your answer rather than pure length.
You’re on the right track by asking this! Just keep iterating on your draft and ask someone you trust to review it for completeness. Good luck!
The goal is to use your space efficiently. If you can express your story in 560 words without losing any depth or detail, that can absolutely work. But you don't want to submit something much shorter unless every word truly counts. Think of the upper end of the range (say, 620-650) as giving you more room for personal details, reflection, and vivid moments—often, that depth is what makes an essay stand out.
For supplemental essays, the word count can vary a lot. Some schools have 100-150 word short answers, others might give you 300 or even 500 words. Always pay close attention to each school's stated maximum. For supplements, it’s best to get within 10-15% of the limit if you have something meaningful to say. For example, if the limit is 250 words, aiming for 220-250 words is great, but 150 would usually be too short unless the prompt is extremely targeted.
Personally, my own Common App essay was about 635 words. I found the biggest challenge was trimming extra phrases and making sure every paragraph advanced my message. Sometimes, essays get better when you tighten them up—every sentence should serve a purpose.
My advice is to draft your story first, then revise with the word count in mind but don't stress about hitting exactly 650. Prioritize clarity, depth, and authenticity. For supplements, use the space you’re given, focusing on the quality of your answer rather than pure length.
You’re on the right track by asking this! Just keep iterating on your draft and ask someone you trust to review it for completeness. Good luck!
Roger Lopez
Chicago, Illinois
Yale University BA, Political Science | Northwestern Kellogg School of Management, MBA Candidate |
Experience
4 years