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)

Numerous individuals believe that all university courses should contain a period of time spent studying abroad or undertaking work experience. Although this policy has some drawbacks, I believe it offers significant educational benefits through work experience that clearly outweigh the disadvantages.

One major advantage of this policy is that it helps students combine academic knowledge with practical, real-world experience. Studying abroad and working in a different environment also promote personal growth. Living independently encourages students to become more responsible. In addition, this process also develops communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, making graduates more confident and employable. Such qualities are increasingly important as many companies now operate internationally. For instance, microbiology students often do internships in laboratories to become familiar with laboratory work; moreover, they gain knowledge about bacteria and research work. Consequently, universities are able to prepare students more effectively for future careers.

On the other hand, this policy may place financial and administrative pressure on universities. Additionally, several undergraduate students may struggle due to low income and the high cost of studying abroad. By way of illustration, smaller institutions may not have enough overseas partnerships or internship opportunities for every student. Furthermore, it can be difficult for students to support themselves independently while abroad, particularly since many internships do not offer paid positions. Compared with the lasting educational benefits, however, these disadvantages are relatively limited.

In conclusion, although requiring undergraduates to study abroad or undertake work placements involves certain practical difficulties, the long-term advantages for students' academic, personal, and professional development are far more significant.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of including study abroad or work placements in undergraduate courses, and clearly states a position in the introduction that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Ideas are extended and supported, particularly in the second paragraph where the writer explains how work experience and studying abroad promote personal growth, improve employability, and provide relevant examples such as microbiology internships. However, there is a slight tendency to over-generalise and some points, such as the financial pressure on universities, could have been extended further. Overall, the response meets 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 clear central topic, starting with an introduction, moving to advantages, then disadvantages, and concluding effectively. Cohesive devices such as 'One major advantage', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is used appropriately, and referencing throughout the text is clear. While the cohesion is generally smooth, it occasionally relies on standard transition markers rather than more subtle cohesive techniques, placing this securely at Band 7.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The student displays a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used with some awareness of style and collocation, such as 'undertaking work experience', 'academic knowledge', 'administrative pressure', and 'long-term advantages'. There are occasional awkward word choices, such as 'contain a period of time' instead of 'incorporate' or 'include', and 'microbiology students often do internships in laboratories to become familiar with laboratory work; moreover, they gain knowledge about bacteria and research work', which contains a minor tautology. However, the vocabulary is adequate for the task and communication is never impeded, meriting a Band 6.5.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer uses a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms, including subordinate clauses ('Although this policy has some drawbacks, I believe...') and conditional or participial structures ('Living independently encourages students to become more responsible'). There is good control of grammar and punctuation throughout the text. While there are a few minor awkward phrases and occasional errors, the majority of sentences are grammatically accurate, and errors do not impede communication. The control of complex structures and punctuation supports a Band 7.0 performance.

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