Writing Sample Length?

[Rupert Pupkin]

The paper I am using for my writing sample was 16 pages originally. After trimming all of the fat to satisfy NYU's length requirement, I actually prefer the shorter version and would like to use it for every school.

How bad would it look to submit a 12-13 page paper for schools that ask for 15-20?

Also, I hate how several of my schools state their length requirement as "no more than 20 pages" or "no more than 25 pages" Technically, 12-13 pages is "no more than 25 pages," but I fear that it may seem skimpy. Why must they be so vague? Any ideas on the minimum length for schools like this?

There really needs to be some kind of standard length requirement for all schools.

[lolopixie]

If a school is asking for 15-20 pages, I would not turn in a paper that is less than 15 pages, or at least very close to the 15 pages (maybe half way down the last page for example). For schools that are asking for no more than 20 or 25 pages, I would aim for close to 20 on those. Technically, 12-13 pages is less than, but it may look skimpy. My 2 cents.

[lolopixie]

I also have a similar question. I have one program that states they want a 10-15 page writing sample - would 15 and 3/4 pages be unacceptable? Do I need to cut 3/4 a page for that program?

[Grunty DaGnome]

I think it can't hurt to call the specific department. Be sure to tell them your name is Joe Smith, just incase they laugh at you!!!!

[Timshel]

I've been told that adcomms don't like it when you don't pay attention to their specific requirements. I know when I just asked about a 4th letter at one of the schools I applied, they were not very kind in their response about making sure to follow their specific requirements.

[Grunty DaGnome]

Don't tell me, tell Joe Smith! He asks the stupidest questions!

[yank in the M20]

I would really make sure I hit page requirements square on the head. Even for my SOP when they asked for no more than 500 words, I trimmed my 506 words down to 500. You don't want to give the committees any excuse to discard your application if they are struggling to narrow their candidate pool down. Plus, just like I would never turn in an essay over the maximum word count, this is the same: I am showing them that I can follow directions, as juvenile as that sounds...

[lolopixie]

Bleh. I like Kansas...give us 2 writing samples...no length requirements. Just show us your best work. Genius.

Edited November 29, 2011 by lolopixie

[Timshel]

Bleh. I like Kansas...give us 2 writing samples...no length requirements. Just show us your best work. Genius.

Not me. It's hard enough for me to find time to perfect one writing sample, let alone two.

[lolopixie]

Not me. It's hard enough for me to find time to perfect one writing sample, let alone two.

I'm very lucky that one of mine has absolutely no editing needed.

[Timshel]

I'm very lucky that one of mine has absolutely no editing needed.

I wish I could be that confident about my writing.

[lolopixie]

I wish I could be that confident about my writing.

The sample has been published and edited by a peer-review committee...it is done. I won't touch it in fear of messing something up.