SLP program: how long of a personal statement if not specified?

[Basic_Space]

My classsmates told me most of the SLP programs want no more than 2-3 pages. Is this true?

[lalabooks]

Most of my programs gave guidelines. One is no more than 500 words, another is 2-3 pages double spaces, and the rest of my schools somewhere in between. I don't know where you are applying but I'm inclined to think most do have some sort of restriction for you to stick to that they specify . Maybe search deeper on the websites to find out or give a phone call, don't just go off of what your classmates say. Admission committees probably do not appreciate getting a SOP longer than they ask for considering the amount of papers they need to go through.

[Chrysanthemum]

Agreed with above. My shortest asked for 300 words, the longest was 3 pages double-spaced. The majority wanted around 500-600 words, though, so I'd imagine they don't want long personal statements.

[leesta]

In addition to what was already said, one of my applications' requirements was max single spaced, 3 pages with 1" margins, 12pt. font (SDSU). It really depends on the school, so I'd call in directly or go to their website to make sure what they want exactly.

Edited January 10, 2012 by leesta

[Basic_Space]

Thank you for the responses--all very helpful. Will try to search and call until I get an answer from these schools.

[caffeinerd]

i assume you mean 2-3 pages double-spaced. that sounds about right. i definitely would not go on and on--being concise is key. to my knowledge adcoms will stop reading if it's past the specified amount allotted. they have to read hundreds of these, so not following the rules is a GREAT reason to chuck an application in the circular file.

[Basic_Space]

i assume you mean 2-3 pages double-spaced. that sounds about right. i definitely would not go on and on--being concise is key. to my knowledge adcoms will stop reading if it's past the specified amount allotted. they have to read hundreds of these, so not following the rules is a GREAT reason to chuck an application in the circular file.

Good point. That bring my attention to something else--are we submitting SOPs double spaced or not? Most of the schools I'm applying to do not indicate anything other than word limits

[Basic_Space]

*bump*

[queenleblanc]

I've read somewhere that SOP's are supposed to be double spaced unless they state otherwise. Some of mine were 1-2 pages at most, one school was one page (single spaced), and others were 2-3 pages. DO Make sure that your name is on ALL pages (in the header section), and add page numbers in case the print order gets messed up at the admissions office. I had a website or two saved on this subject but I can't find them right now ... I submitted my last application two weeks ago! :-)

Hope that helps!!

[ballerina18]

I only applied to one SLP grad school and the limit was 500-600 words.