Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-13

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 6.5)

Many universities are now considering making international study or work placements compulsory for undergraduate students. While this proposal has some drawbacks, I believe the benefits are far more significant.

The main advantage of studying abroad or doing a work placement is the development of practical and personal skills. When students live in another country, they are exposed to different cultures, languages, and ways of thinking. This experience improves adaptability, independence, and communication skills, which are highly valued by employers. For example, a Nepali student studying business in the UK would not only learn academic theory but also gain experience working in a global team. Similarly, a work placement allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real jobs, making them more employable after graduation. Many companies prefer graduates who already have workplace experience.

However, there are clear disadvantages. The biggest issue is cost. Studying abroad involves tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, which many families cannot afford. This could make higher education less accessible and increase inequality. Another problem is disruption to studies. A year away from campus might delay graduation or make it difficult for students to complete required courses, especially in technical degrees like medicine or engineering where the curriculum is very fixed.

Despite these concerns, I think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Universities and governments could solve the cost problem by offering scholarships and affordable exchange programs. The long-term benefits of having graduates with global experience and job skills are much more valuable for both individuals and the country’s workforce.

In conclusion, while cost and academic disruption are valid concerns, the personal growth, cultural understanding, and career benefits of mandatory study abroad or work placements make this a positive development

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student has successfully addressed all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of making study abroad or work placements compulsory, and clearly stating their position that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The response presents well-developed ideas, such as the enhancement of practical and personal skills alongside the counter-arguments of cost and academic disruption. These ideas are extended and supported effectively with relevant examples, such as a Nepali student studying business in the UK. The position is maintained clearly throughout the essay, meeting the criteria for Band 7.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from the introduction to the advantages, disadvantages, counter-arguments, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen with phrases like 'The main advantage', 'However', and 'Despite these concerns'. Paragraphing is used appropriately and sufficiently to structure the text logically, aligning well with the descriptors for a Band 7 score.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student displays a sufficient range of vocabulary that allows for some flexibility and precision, such as 'compulsory', 'adaptability', 'accessibility', and 'curriculum'. Less common lexical items are used with adequate awareness of style and collocation, and the ideas are expressed clearly. While the vocabulary is generally appropriate and functional for an academic essay, it does not consistently reach the sophisticated control required for higher bands, placing it firmly at Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer employs a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, demonstrating good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional and participial constructions like 'When students live in another country, they are exposed to...' and 'making higher education less accessible'. There are frequent error-free sentences, and the occasional grammatical imperfections do not impede communication in any way. The grammatical control and range displayed throughout the response comfortably satisfy the requirements for a Band 7.

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

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