Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 1 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · IELTS General Essentials · 2026-09-08

IELTS Writing Task 1 question

You have enrolled in an evening course but you have found that you are too busy to continue and would like to take the course next term instead.

• explain the situation and why you cannot continue the course

• say what you would like to do about your studies

• ask for advice about what you can do about the situation

Student answer (Band 8.5)

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to inform you that, although I have recently enrolled in your evening course, I am unfortunately unable to continue attending the classes this term because of my increasing academic commitments.

When I registered for the course, I expected to have sufficient time to attend the evening sessions and complete the required assignments. However, my studies have become considerably more demanding, and I now have several important projects and examinations to prepare for. As a result, it has become difficult for me to attend the classes regularly and give the course the attention it deserves.

I would therefore like to postpone my studies and continue the course next term instead. I am very interested in completing the course and would prefer not to withdraw from it permanently. If possible, I would appreciate it if my current enrolment could be transferred to the next available term.

Could you please advise me on the procedure for postponing my enrolment? I would also be grateful if you could let me know whether there are any forms I need to complete or additional fees I need to pay.

Thank you for your understanding. I look forward to hearing from you and hope that I can resume my studies next term.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all three bullet points of the prompt. You clearly explain the situation regarding your increased academic commitments, state your desire to postpone the course to the next term, and politely request advice on the administrative procedure. The tone is consistently appropriate for a formal letter, and the purpose is clear from the outset. The ideas are well-developed and logically presented, ensuring the reader understands your request without ambiguity. You have successfully covered all requirements of the task in a professional manner.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The letter is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph serves a distinct purpose: the introduction states the purpose, the body paragraphs explain the situation and the desired outcome, and the final paragraph seeks specific advice. You use cohesive devices effectively, such as 'although,' 'however,' 'as a result,' and 'therefore,' which help to link your ideas smoothly. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the overall structure is coherent, making the letter very easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and natural range of vocabulary that is well-suited to a formal context. Phrases such as 'increasing academic commitments,' 'sufficient time,' 'postpone my studies,' and 'current enrolment' are used accurately and show a high level of control. The language is precise and sophisticated, contributing to the professional tone of the letter. There are no errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary is used with flexibility to convey your meaning effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The response exhibits a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You successfully use complex sentences, such as 'I am writing to inform you that, although I have recently enrolled in your evening course, I am unfortunately unable to continue...' and 'I would also be grateful if you could let me know whether there are any forms I need to complete.' Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no grammatical errors. The control over sentence structure is excellent, reflecting a high level of proficiency.

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

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