GradGPT conducted a survey to help answer this question. We spoke to hundreds of college admissions officers and found that the most effective essays tend to fall between 500-600 words.
Of course, the quality of the essay is what matters most, not the specific word count. If your story can be effectively told in 400 words or less, that's perfectly fine.
Admissions officers are not counting words – they are looking for essays that are well-written, engaging, and compelling, especially in highlighting your strengths.
That being said, it is important to use the word count as a guide and not exceed the maximum of 650 words. Keep in mind that admissions officers are reading through countless essays, so a concise yet persuasive essay that showcases your unique personality, experiences, and accomplishments can set you apart from the crowd.Â
