How Long Should a College Admissions Essay Be?

A good admissions essay is important for getting into college.

There is an Expected Length

Most college admissions officers expect an admissions essay to be approximately 500 words, according to QuintessentialCareers.com. This can be achieved by following a five-paragraph essay style, with an introduction, three middle paragraphs and a conclusion. If you write roughly 100 words per paragraph, you should end up close to the 500-word guideline.

Follow the Application Instructions

Although 500 words should be your guide, carefully read the application materials sent by each college, as some may want longer or shorter essays. If the college asks for a longer essay, keep the same basic format, but expand the individual paragraphs by the appropriate number of words.

Bottom Line

Unless your application materials specify a different length, use 500 words as your goal for a college admissions essay. Structure your essay as a basic five-paragraph essay, and adjust the average length of your paragraphs to conform to the total word count you are aiming for.

References

• Quintessential Careers: Writing the Successful College Application Essay: Tips for Success
• Carleton College Admissions: Essay Tips
• College View: How to Write a College Admission Essay