Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-18

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 7.5)

It is increasingly argued that every undergraduate student should be required to spend a period of their degree either studying abroad or gaining practical experience through a work placement. Although making such opportunities compulsory could create financial and logistical difficulties for some students, I believe the advantages would outweigh the disadvantages because these experiences can significantly improve students’ professional skills, independence and employability.

One major benefit of studying abroad or undertaking a work placement is that it allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations. University courses often provide students with a strong academic foundation, but employers also expect graduates to possess communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. A work placement, for example, enables a student studying computer science to work on real projects, collaborate with colleagues and understand how professional organisations operate. As a result, graduates are likely to enter the labour market with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of their chosen careers.

Studying abroad can provide equally valuable personal and academic benefits. Living in another country exposes students to different cultures, educational systems and ways of thinking. They are also required to manage everyday responsibilities independently, such as accommodation, finances and communication in unfamiliar surroundings. This can develop adaptability and self-confidence, qualities that are increasingly valuable in a globalised employment market. For instance, a student from Nepal who spends a semester at a university in another country may gain not only academic knowledge but also a broader perspective on international workplaces and cultural differences.

Nevertheless, making these experiences compulsory could disadvantage students who have limited financial resources. International travel, accommodation and living expenses can be substantial, while unpaid work placements may also prevent students from earning money during their studies. There may also be insufficient placement opportunities in certain fields, particularly for courses that are highly theoretical. Consequently, universities would need to provide financial assistance and ensure that suitable alternatives are available for students who cannot participate in conventional programmes.

Overall, although compulsory study-abroad programmes and work placements could impose financial and organisational burdens, I believe their benefits are considerably greater. Practical experience, international exposure and the development of independence can make graduates better prepared for both employment and adult life. Therefore, universities should incorporate such opportunities into undergraduate degrees, provided that adequate financial support and flexible alternatives are offered.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly stated your position in the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. Each paragraph is well-developed with relevant examples, such as the computer science student example and the mention of financial barriers. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesises the main points. You have successfully balanced the discussion by acknowledging the disadvantages while providing a strong justification for why the advantages outweigh them. The response is well-structured and demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth and natural. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Although', 'For instance', 'Nevertheless', and 'Consequently', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the response. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the referencing is precise throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'theoretical knowledge', 'labour market', 'globalised employment market', and 'organisational burdens' show a high level of lexical control. You use less common items with precision and demonstrate a good awareness of collocation. The vocabulary is natural and sophisticated, contributing to the overall clarity and impact of your arguments. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling that would impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional sentences, relative clauses, and varied sentence beginnings. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. You have used complex structures with full flexibility, such as 'Although making such opportunities compulsory could create financial and logistical difficulties... I believe the advantages would outweigh the disadvantages'. There are no significant grammatical errors, and the few minor slips that might exist are rare and do not affect the flow or meaning of the text.

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