Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-01

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

All university undergraduate courses should include a period of time spent studying abroad or doing a work placement.

Do you think the advantages of this would outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 8.5)

In an increasingly globalized world, the education system is evolving to meet the demands of modern society. One proposal gaining traction is the incorporation of a mandatory period for studying abroad or participating in a work placement within all university undergraduate programs. While some may argue that such requirements could present challenges, I contend that the advantages significantly outweigh the disadvantages.

First and foremost, the benefits of studying abroad or undertaking a work placement render students more competitive in the job market. Exposure to different cultures and working environments equips graduates with invaluable skills such as adaptability and cross-cultural communication. For instance, an engineering student who completes an internship in Germany may learn innovative practices and technologies that could be beneficial to their future employers. Furthermore, these experiences often enhance problem-solving abilities, as students must navigate unfamiliar situations and tackle challenges independently, thereby fostering personal and professional growth.

Conversely, critics of this approach argue that not all students can financially afford the expenses associated with studying abroad or work placements. Acknowledging this concern, it is essential to consider that universities could implement scholarship programs and partnerships with local companies to mitigate financial barriers, ensuring inclusivity. Additionally, some individuals contend that mandatory international experiences could take away from academic focus and lead to disruptions in students' learning schedules. However, with careful planning and integration into the curriculum, such experiences can be seamlessly woven into a student's educational journey, enriching rather than hindering their academic pursuits.

In conclusion, while there are legitimate concerns regarding the implementation of compulsory overseas study or work placements, the overwhelming benefits, such as enhanced employability and personal development, render these challenges surmountable. By adopting supportive measures, educational institutions can ensure that all students reap the rewards of a globalized educational experience, thereby preparing them for success in an interconnected world.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the discussion on employability and the counter-arguments regarding financial barriers. You provided relevant examples, such as the engineering student in Germany, which effectively supports your argument. The conclusion provides a clear summary of your position. The response is balanced, logical, and directly answers the question of whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. No parts of the task were omitted, and the development of ideas is consistent with a high-level response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits and the counter-arguments is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'First and foremost', 'Furthermore', 'Conversely', and 'In conclusion'. These markers help the reader follow your argument without difficulty. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph serving a distinct purpose in the overall structure. The referencing is clear, and the flow of information is natural and coherent throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic essay. Phrases like 'gaining traction', 'mitigate financial barriers', 'seamlessly woven', and 'interconnected world' show a sophisticated command of language. The word choices are precise and contribute to the professional tone of the writing. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary is used with natural control. You have successfully used less common lexical items to convey complex ideas clearly, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response in this criterion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You have successfully used complex sentence forms, such as conditional structures and subordinate clauses, to express your ideas. For example, 'While some may argue that such requirements could present challenges, I contend that...' is a well-constructed complex sentence. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. Your control over tense, agreement, and sentence variety is excellent, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence.

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