How long should an essay be?

Question

I'm a prospective transfer student. I have been going to a four year college (Texas State) and I am applying for transfer to another four year college (The University of Texas at Austin). I am supposed to write two essays for my application of admission: a statement of purpose and one about an issue that is important to me. I understand the basic structure of an essay, I need an introduction, three body paragraphs and a conclusion. I am already at two full pages, double spaced, on the first essay and I'm wondering how long (or short) should I go????

Answer 1

Spend as much time as you think you need to. Don't keep going on and on though as you'll probably dull your reader. Cover the topic thoroughly and that's enough.

Good luck! I hope you get in!