Writing Sample--Word count vs Page Count

[Rootbound]

Hello all,

  Quick question: one of the programs I am applying to asks for a writing sample that "must be between 3,000 and 7,500 words (12-30 pages)." The work I was planning on submitting is well under 30 pages, but about 500 words over the word limit. I might be driving myself a little crazy over this one, but does anyone have any insight on whether or not that would be a problem? I have already edited it a good deal, and if worse comes to worse I can find 500 words to lose, but I would rather not if I don't need too....Thanks!

[WildeThing]

I don’t know but I would respect all limits. Some places state their limits as word OR page limit, which would mean you were fine. However, if your word limit is over but page limit it is probably a margin/spacing issue. I would always look to stay in the lower side of limits since committees go through many applications and the longer it is the less likely it is actually read in full. 

[Rootbound]

Sounds like the common sense way to go about it! thanks for the advice