Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-27

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)

Integrating a mandatory period of study abroad or practical work placement into undergraduate programs is increasingly proposed as a strategy to enhance higher education. Although this requirement introduces financial and logistical challenges for some students, I firmly believe the long-term career and personal benefits significantly outweigh the drawbacks.

The primary disadvantage of compelling all undergraduates to participate in international study or internships is the financial and administrative burden. Studying in another country involves substantial tuition, travel, and living expenses that many lower-income students cannot afford without scholarship support. Similarly, finding suitable work placements can be difficult for universities in regions with limited industrial connections. Moreover, forcing every student into a predefined track may delay the graduation of those who prefer to focus purely on academic research or complete their degrees quickly.

However, the advantages of practical experience and international exposure are far more substantial. First, work placements bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, equipping graduates with practical skills that make them immediately employable. Employers consistently prefer candidates who possess professional experience and workplace soft skills like teamwork and problem-solving. Second, spending time abroad fosters cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and independence—qualities essential in today’s globalized economy. For instance, engineering and business graduates who complete international internships often secure better job offers due to their broader perspective and practical readiness.

In conclusion, while mandatory placements or overseas study create financial and logistical hurdles, the overall benefits are greater. The practical expertise and global adaptability gained from these experiences provide students with a crucial competitive edge in their future careers.

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. The arguments are well-developed, with the disadvantages (financial and administrative burdens) and advantages (employability and soft skills) balanced effectively. You have provided relevant examples, such as the mention of engineering and business graduates, which adds depth to your argument. The conclusion effectively summarizes your stance, ensuring the task requirements are met with a clear, logical progression of ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized, with a clear progression of ideas from the introduction to the conclusion. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the disadvantages and advantages is smooth, signaled by the use of 'However'. Cohesive devices such as 'Moreover', 'First', 'Second', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the argument, which contributes to the overall clarity and flow of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression. Phrases such as 'administrative burden', 'theoretical knowledge', 'real-world application', and 'globalized economy' are used accurately and naturally. There is a good command of collocation, and the vocabulary is sophisticated enough to convey complex ideas without any noticeable errors. The language used is appropriate for an academic context, showing a strong ability to use less common lexical items effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You successfully use complex sentence forms, such as conditional-like structures ('if... then' implied) and participial phrases ('equipping graduates with...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is handled correctly throughout. There is a high level of control over grammar, and the few structures used are consistently accurate, which supports the overall clarity of your argument.

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