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Word counter for essays and personal statements

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): Paste your essay above to see the exact word count and the words you repeat most. The Common App personal statement allows up to 650 words, and many supplemental essays 150–300. If you are over the limit, cut filler words such as "very", "really" and "in order to" first; if you are under, add one concrete example rather than padding.

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0Words
0Characters

Character limits

Most used words

    Step by step

    1. Paste the essay into the box above.
    2. Compare the word count with the limit.
    3. Check the most used words and replace repeated ones.

    At a glance

    Essay typeCommon limitTip
    Common App personal statement650 wordsAim for 600–650
    Supplemental essay150–300 wordsOne clear idea
    School essayAs set by the teacherAsk whether references count

    Related questions

    Do titles and references count?

    It depends on the instructions; many teachers exclude the reference list.

    Is my essay saved or shared?

    It stays only in this browser; nothing is sent anywhere.

    What if I am 5 words over?

    Portals like the Common App will not let you submit more than the limit; trim a few filler words.

    More questions: word counter

    Open the full word counter →

    Updated November 14, 2026.