How Long Should an Essay Entry Be?
A typical contest essay is between 300–1000 words. Expand this FAQ to understand how to set guidelines and what to consider for different audiences.
Essay contests often specify a word count to ensure fairness and keep judging manageable. Here are general benchmarks:
- Students (middle/high school): 300–500 words
- University level: 500–1000 words
- Short story contests: up to 2000 words
Always clearly state the length requirement in your contest description. If needed, add a file upload limit and format restrictions using Gleam’s custom fields:
See Next Article
Does a Fitness Challenge App Work for Engagement?
Apps offer structure, but Gleam adds rewards, referrals, and community. Click to compare app-only vs. contest-powered engagement.