NDFan41

My admissions essay is currently 3.5 pages double-spaced. Is this too long? And could this hurt me in anyway?

I know there isn't a stated maximum, but I want to make sure I am not overdoing it.

Thanks!

Envix

I actually loaded up the application form to see that they removed the maximum length. Interesting.

I'm a junior, so I applied in 2006; ND did not use the common app back then, and their essay was 400-500 words. The common app essay in 2006 was 250-500 words. I remember I actually had to go add stuff to my essay in order to make it long enough for ND. It still fit on one page, though, if I remember.

I suppose since they removed the cap, it would probably not be detrimental in itself to write a long essay. However, if it is boring and not personal, it would not benefit you, and the essay can be extremely beneficial.

I'm sure you've heard this before, but the biggest thing they are looking for in an essay is something personal and allows the reader to relate to you. (By far the easiest way of doing this, in my opinion, is writing about something you are passionate about and why you are passionate about it.. mine was about music, I believe.) For something with this purpose, unless you are telling a very gripping story of some kind, I admit that I would be very surprised if an essay of that length was interesting and personal.

But honestly, read it and ask friends/teachers to read it, and ask them; is this personal, is this interesting the whole time, and does give the reader a real image of a part of your personality? If so, go for it, even if it is long.

Best of luck with your admissions.