Goldman School Statement of Purpose: Conflicting guidelines

[benjo]

Hi all:

Long-time lurker, first-time poster. I'm applying to the Goldman School for this fall, and I'm wondering what a good length for the Statement of Purpose might be. On the one hand, we have the general FAQ for Berkeley admissions:

7. The essay should be 500-600 words (1 to 1½ pages) single-space, typed, 12pt. font size.

Writing the Statement of Purpose

On the other hand, we have the Goldman School page:

We would appreciate your helping us by supplying a brief statement of 3-5 pages, double-spaced.

How to Apply

3 pages double-spaced is about 900 words, right? Any advice?

[fenderpete]

I'd email the Goldman School admissions address and ask for clarification - but I'd be surprised if it wasn't the 3-5 pages. I tend to go by the page guideline rather than words, and then if it's Times New Roman 12pt and fills the correct amount of page space I don't think they'll care if you're 20 words over the limit.