Personal Statements not to exceed 500 words... Forum

[Deuce]

So I've noticed a couple of law schools say that your personal statement is "not to exceed 500 words"... is this a general rule of thumb meaning to just keep it 2 pages or less, or do they really mean you better not go over 500? Mine is 2 pages, 700 words. Should I submit as is, or do I need to make a chopped version for these schools?

[d34d9823]

So I've noticed a couple of law schools say that your personal statement is "not to exceed 500 words"... is this a general rule of thumb meaning to just keep it 2 pages or less, or do they really mean you better not go over 500? Mine is 2 pages, 700 words. Should I submit as is, or do I need to make a chopped version for these schools?

If it says it, do it...

[lifestooquick]

Um, pretty sure they made it clear. Not sure why you're asking.

It should be 500 words or less if that is what they ask for. First rule of applications - follow directions.

[brochocinco]

They really mean 500 words. Not 2 pages.

[dakatz]

I spoke to an admissions person from a school with a 500-word limit and she specifically told me that it is okay to go over a bit, but it should be minimal. For example, if you go to 530 words, that will be absolutely fine since one extra sentence or 2 isn't noticeable. But if you put 700 words, that essay is a lot longer than they requested.

[Bildungsroman]

So I've noticed a couple of law schools say that your personal statement is "not to exceed 500 words"... is this a general rule of thumb meaning to just keep it 2 pages or less, or do they really mean you better not go over 500? Mine is 2 pages, 700 words. Should I submit as is, or do I need to make a chopped version for these schools?

If a law school tells you not to exceed 500 words on your personal statement, it's generally a good idea not to exceed 500 words on that personal statement. An adcomm would probably notice if your PS is 40% longer than they asked for. Time to get out the pruning shears.