Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-12

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 often argued that all university undergraduate programmes should require students to spend a period of time either studying in another country or undertaking a work placement. While such a requirement could create financial and practical difficulties for some students, I believe that the benefits of gaining real-world experience and developing personal independence would outweigh these drawbacks.

The most significant advantage of this approach is that it would allow students to acquire skills that cannot always be developed in a traditional university environment. A work placement, for example, gives undergraduates the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, while also developing communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Studying abroad can provide similar benefits by exposing students to different cultures, educational systems and ways of thinking. As a result, graduates may become more adaptable and confident, which can considerably improve their employability. For instance, a business student who spends a semester working for an international company may gain a better understanding of professional practices and develop contacts that could be useful when seeking employment after graduation.

However, making overseas study or work placements compulsory could also have disadvantages. The main concern is the financial burden placed on students, particularly those from low-income families. Travel, accommodation and living expenses can make studying abroad considerably more expensive than remaining at one's home university. In addition, some students may experience homesickness or difficulty adapting to an unfamiliar culture. Nevertheless, these problems could be reduced through university funded scholarships, affordable placement programmes and appropriate support services. More importantly, these disadvantages are generally temporary, whereas the practical and personal skills gained through such experiences can benefit students throughout their careers.

In conclusion, although compulsory overseas study or work placements could impose financial and emotional challenges, I believe their advantages are considerably greater. The opportunity to gain practical experience, become more independent and develop a broader understanding of the world would prepare university graduates more effectively for both employment and adult life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student addresses all parts of the task thoroughly and presents a clear, well-developed position throughout the essay. The introduction successfully outlines both sides while stating a firm stance. The body paragraphs thoughtfully explore the advantages, such as real-world experience and employability, as well as the disadvantages, including financial burdens and homesickness. Each main point is extended and supported with relevant examples, such as a business student working for an international company. Ideas are fully developed without wandering off-topic, aligning closely with the Band 8 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a logical organization with a clear progression of ideas from introduction to conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively, with each body paragraph focusing on a distinct theme (advantages followed by disadvantages). Cohesive devices such as 'For instance', 'However', and 'In conclusion' are managed naturally to guide the reader through the argument. Referencing is clear throughout, and overall cohesion is smooth and unobtrusive, fitting the requirements for a Band 8 score well.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The writer displays a wide and flexible vocabulary range suited to an academic discussion. Less common lexical items are used skilfully and naturally, such as 'undertaking a work placement', 'theoretical knowledge', 'adaptable and confident', and 'financial burden'. Word choice and collocations are generally precise, with only occasional minor lapses. Spelling and word formation are accurate throughout the essay, demonstrating a strong command of vocabulary corresponding to a Band 7.5 or 8.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and control over complex multi-clause structures is evident in sentences like 'While such a requirement could create financial and practical difficulties for some students, I believe that the benefits...'. Punctuation and tense usage are consistently correct. Minor slips are extremely rare, making this performance sit comfortably at the Band 8 level for grammar.

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