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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?

Ildeuce wrote: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...

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.

They really mean 500 words. Not 2 pages.

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.

Ildeuce wrote: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.