Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-29

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

A friend of yours is thinking about applying for the same course that you did at university. He/She has asked for your advice about studying this subject. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter

• give details of the course you took at the university
• explain why you recommend the university
• give some advice about how to apply

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear .................. ,

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Dear Sarah,

It was great to hear that you are considering applying for the same course I completed at university. I’d be more than happy to share my experience with you.

I completed a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), which was a three-year course. The programme covered a range of subjects, including programming, database management, web development and computer networks. Although some modules were theory-based, there were also practical assignments and group projects, which made the course interesting and useful.

I would definitely recommend the university for several reasons. First of all, the lecturers are knowledgeable and approachable, so it is easy to ask for help whenever you have difficulties. The university also has excellent academic facilities, including well-equipped computer laboratories and modern study areas. In addition, I found the learning environment very supportive, which helped me stay motivated throughout the course.

As for the application process, I would suggest checking the university’s website first. Make sure that you meet all the entry requirements and prepare your academic transcripts and certificates in advance. You should also pay close attention to the application deadline and submit your application as early as possible. If you want, I can also help you prepare your application.

Let me know if you need any help. I’m happy to help.

Best wishes,

Namita

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all three bullet points of the task. You clearly described the Bachelor of Computer Applications course, provided logical reasons for recommending the university (knowledgeable staff, facilities, and environment), and gave practical advice regarding the application process. The tone is appropriate for a letter to a friend, maintaining a consistent and helpful persona throughout. The ideas are well-developed and the response is balanced, ensuring that each part of the prompt receives sufficient attention. No information is missing, and the letter flows naturally from one point to the next.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The letter is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect of the prompt, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You have used a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'First of all', 'In addition', and 'As for the application process', which help guide the reader through the text. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the message. The use of referencing is accurate, and the structure is coherent from the opening greeting to the closing sign-off.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the context of university applications. Phrases such as 'entry requirements', 'academic transcripts', and 'learning environment' are used accurately. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it is generally standard. To reach the highest band, you could incorporate more sophisticated collocations or idiomatic expressions that sound more natural in a friendly letter. However, the current range is more than adequate for the task, and there are no errors in word choice or spelling that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response displays a high level of grammatical accuracy. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as the conditional 'If you want, I can also help you...' and the relative clause '...which made the course interesting and useful.' Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no noticeable grammatical errors. The control over verb tenses and sentence construction is consistent, making the text easy to read and professional in its presentation.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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