How long is the ideal Common App essay supposed to be?
I started drafting my Common App essay and I’m kinda freaking out because my first draft is already almost 800 words. I know the official range is 250-650 words, but do most people go all the way up to the limit? Will colleges be annoyed if I submit something at the max word count, or do they prefer essays closer to the minimum?
Also, what actually fits better? I keep trimming it down but then I feel like I’m losing some of my story. Do schools really read every single word, or do they skim over super long responses? I just really want my application to stand out but not annoy admissions officers with something too long.
Would love to hear what lengths have worked for people who already submitted!
Also, what actually fits better? I keep trimming it down but then I feel like I’m losing some of my story. Do schools really read every single word, or do they skim over super long responses? I just really want my application to stand out but not annoy admissions officers with something too long.
Would love to hear what lengths have worked for people who already submitted!
4 months ago
•
113 views
Lydia Schooler
• 4 months ago
Advisor
I’m a Yale graduate and college admissions advisor with over 8 years of experience helping students gain admission to top universities like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. I’ve guided thousands of students through drafting their Common App essays, and I can tell you that aiming for the higher end of the word range — while keeping your essay concise and compelling — is usually the best approach.
The official Common App essay range is 250–650 words, and most strong essays fall between 600–650 words. Many students end up right at the max limit because it gives enough room to fully develop their story and reflection. Colleges won’t be annoyed by a 649-word essay — in fact, they often expect it if the content is strong.
Submitting something much closer to the minimum (250–400 words) is only advisable if your essay is so compelling that every word truly counts. Going short without a strong reason might make it seem like you didn’t put in as much effort, especially since most applicants have a lot to share.
What matters more than hitting 650 exactly is making every word count. If trimming means losing the heart of your story, ask yourself: What do I want the reader to remember about me? Can I combine or tighten sentences without losing meaning? Sometimes removing repetition or filler can make your essay more powerful.
Admissions officers do read the entire essay, and a well-structured 650-word piece won’t feel long if it’s engaging. Think of each paragraph as serving a specific purpose. For example, I worked with a student whose first draft was over 800 words about moving from rural Maine to New York City in eighth grade. After cutting repeated anecdotes and tightening language, their essay came in at 647 words — stronger, more focused, and ultimately successful in getting them admitted.
Aim for the upper end of the word count if it benefits your story, but don’t stretch just to hit 650. If your essay is complete and compelling at 610 words, that’s perfect. If trimming feels difficult, ask a trusted friend, counselor, or advisor to help you identify what’s essential versus what’s extra.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
I know this process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are fully capable of navigating it successfully. I’m always here to help guide you through it. You’ve got this!
The official Common App essay range is 250–650 words, and most strong essays fall between 600–650 words. Many students end up right at the max limit because it gives enough room to fully develop their story and reflection. Colleges won’t be annoyed by a 649-word essay — in fact, they often expect it if the content is strong.
Submitting something much closer to the minimum (250–400 words) is only advisable if your essay is so compelling that every word truly counts. Going short without a strong reason might make it seem like you didn’t put in as much effort, especially since most applicants have a lot to share.
What matters more than hitting 650 exactly is making every word count. If trimming means losing the heart of your story, ask yourself: What do I want the reader to remember about me? Can I combine or tighten sentences without losing meaning? Sometimes removing repetition or filler can make your essay more powerful.
Admissions officers do read the entire essay, and a well-structured 650-word piece won’t feel long if it’s engaging. Think of each paragraph as serving a specific purpose. For example, I worked with a student whose first draft was over 800 words about moving from rural Maine to New York City in eighth grade. After cutting repeated anecdotes and tightening language, their essay came in at 647 words — stronger, more focused, and ultimately successful in getting them admitted.
Aim for the upper end of the word count if it benefits your story, but don’t stretch just to hit 650. If your essay is complete and compelling at 610 words, that’s perfect. If trimming feels difficult, ask a trusted friend, counselor, or advisor to help you identify what’s essential versus what’s extra.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve helped thousands of students craft essays and applications that stand out at the most selective schools, including the Ivy League and Stanford. To give each student the highest level of attention, I keep my caseload small — booking early guarantees a place. I’m currently offering free consultations for new Sundial families where we’ll review your goals, brainstorm essay ideas, and outline a clear application strategy. You can book directly through my profile.
I know this process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are fully capable of navigating it successfully. I’m always here to help guide you through it. You’ve got this!