I am currently in the process to apply for a PHD program in education (human development). The program says they are looking for SOPs that are "no more than 1500 words". Double spaced, that's like almost 10 pages. Should I really aim for lengthy, or conscise? I know PHD SOPs are so different from Master's, but it's so hard to get started! >.<
1500 is actually not that lng of an essay. Do what feels natural to you and what you feel will provide the greatest comprehension of what it is you would like to project. I always say content is better than a superficial lengthy essay.
GOOD LUCK :D
Check out my essay and leave your opinions
Although 1500 words sound a huge amount to get through, it's not really enough for you to show yourself for the Phd program.
Don't try to be extreme. the quantity of your writing is not as important as the quality of your writing!
:)
thanks guys! I just don't want the professors to get tired of reading so many SOPs and just skim through them - without reading too much into the contents.
On a side note, how many applicants does one PHD program in EDU usually get?
Being a first-year applicant, I'm not really sure about the number of applicants for the PHD progam.
I think it depends to which university you are applying to.
For more precise informaion, I recommend you to inquire the university you are targetting, or ask alumni.
:)
Indeed it does depend on the school you are applying to. Depending on the school the program could be quite competitive. As far as length, 1500 isn't a lot--it's about 6 pages depending on what font you use. Fortunately, you are not applying to a school that gives no page length, but instead tells you that 3 pages is a good start!
I think 1,500 words takes about 4 pages with Time New Roman font with 1.5 space. Try it. It's not a lot I've seen some schools that require 2,000 words.
