Help, please - word count for academic job application

[MadameSapphire]

Morning all. My cover letter is a couple of hundred words over the required word count - it will be uploaded as a file so words won’t be cut off by application system, IYSWIM, but is it terrible to submit with over word count? That is, am I likely to be penalised? (I have worked hard to edit down already!) Letter is two A4 pages. TIA.

You need to edit down. They will immediately see it is over the word count and might simply reject you on that basis. You need to demonstrate that you can meet stipulated requirements and edit your work. Back in the day, when there were multiple applications for teaching jobs, handwritten letters on lined paper would be automatically binned.

Yes you need to edit it. Also, two pages is unusually long for a cover letter! Make sure you are not repeating info that is elsewhere in the application

The word count is there for a reason! To be fair to all candidates. You'll need to cut it down or risk having your application rejected purely for not following the requirements.

Edit it. People who can’t follow the application requirements aren’t looked kindly upon by shortlisting committees.

Absolutely edit it down. They put the limit there for a reason.

If I was shortlisting I would reject an application for someone who didn't follow the instructions given

Thanks - will edit!

Also, if you get an interview and are asked to prepare a presentation, make sure you stay strictly within the time limit. Never fails to surprise me how many refuse to do so, and how frustrating it is for the panel.