LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska is again holding an essay-writing contest for seventh- and eighth-graders to encourage participation in a state-sponsored college savings plan.

The 13th “Why I Want to Go to College” contest is open to students in Nebraska and across the country.

Judges will pick three winners from each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts and three winners from out of the state. First-place winners will receive a $2,000 contribution to a Nebraska college savings plan. Second-place winners will receive a $1,000 contribution, and third-place winners will each receive a $500 contribution.

Essays are limited to 750 words and are due before March 27. The contest is organized by the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office and the Omaha Storm Chasers baseball team. More details are available on the treasurer’s website.