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Some colleges require high school seniors to submit an essay as part of the admissions process. That essay may also help when it comes to paying for college, according to KHEAA.

The quality and thoughtfulness of a college admissions essay can play an important part in a student's acceptance to their preferred school. Students should take the extra time to proofread and revise their essay several times, if necessary, and have a teacher, school counselor or parent review the essay before they submit it.

Essays help schools learn more about students by giving them a chance to set themselves apart from other applicants. The more exclusive the college, the more important the essay may be in admissions decisions. An essay that stands out from the rest may make the school want a student enough to offer more financial aid.

Some schools let students submit nontraditional essays such as poems, song lyrics or videos, which allow students to display their creativity. Students should confirm with the school that nontraditional essays will be accepted before they submit one.

KHEAA is a public, non-profit agency established in 1966 to improve students' access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents.

KHEAA also helps colleges manage their student loan default rates and verify information submitted on the FAFSA. For more information about those services, visit kheaa.com.