basically write their kid's essays. I would not even require an essay for this reason. Such an easy thing to have done by someone else. They should look at ACT, GPA and extracurriculars. And no, this isn't sour grapes. My kids didn't even apply to BYU because they just aren't into Church, didn't do seminary/missions etc... Despite their good grades and high test scores they wouldn't have gotten in any way.