I agree that almost all schools do not mind essays a little over. That said I suggest for clients to cut to the word limit if possible because you never know the odd admissions officer who looks at adherence to the word limits as a test of being able to follow directions.

Good luck,

I advise my clients to shoot for the word limit for essays. Delivering great essays within the parameters is yet another example of how you can separate yourself. That being said, going over by 10-15 words is not a big deal on one or two of the essays. I've had clients do this every year and still be accepted. But some schools do make their word limit restrictions more explicit, so pay attention to these school specific suggestions.

Good Luck!