Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-14

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 7.0)

In recent years, there has been increasing discussion about whether all undergraduate courses should include a compulsory period of studying abroad or completing a work placement. This development has both advantages and disadvantages. However, I believe that the benefits of such practical and international experience outweigh the drawbacks.

One major advantage of including a work placement in undergraduate courses is that it gives students valuable exposure to professional life. It allows them to apply the theoretical knowledge they gain at university and develop practical and technical skills. As a result, students may have better employment prospects after graduation. For example, students who complete internships or work placements during their degrees can gain experience in real working environments, which may make them more competitive when applying for permanent positions. Therefore, compulsory work experience could help graduates make a smoother transition from university to professional life.

Another significant benefit of studying abroad is that it can provide students with international exposure and a broader understanding of their chosen field. Living and studying in another country can also improve their confidence and ability to communicate with people from different backgrounds. For instance, a student studying software engineering abroad may become familiar with international developments in areas such as artificial intelligence and may consequently decide to develop skills in this field. This type of experience can help students compete more effectively in the international job market.

However, there are also some disadvantages to making overseas study or work placements compulsory. The most significant drawback is the financial burden that this may place on students and their families. Studying abroad can involve considerable expenses, including travel, accommodation and other living costs. This could put students from low-income backgrounds at a disadvantage. Nevertheless, this problem could be reduced by providing scholarships or allowing students to complete local work placements instead.

In conclusion, making international study or work placements compulsory for undergraduate students has some disadvantages, particularly the potential financial burden. However, I believe that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages because students can gain valuable professional experience, develop practical skills and obtain greater international exposure.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of making studying abroad or work placements compulsory, and presents a clear position throughout. The arguments are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as gaining professional exposure and international experience, as well as acknowledging the financial burden. The ideas are extended effectively and logically, meeting all requirements for a Band 7.5 or 8.0 level in Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to distinct body paragraphs covering work placements, studying abroad, and counter-arguments, followed by a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'One major advantage', 'Another significant benefit', 'However', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately and logically.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision suitable for an academic task. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, such as 'professional life', 'theoretical knowledge', 'employment prospects', 'international exposure', and 'financial burden'. Collocations are mostly natural, and spelling and word choice are accurate, with only rare minor issues. This fits comfortably within the Band 7 range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response features a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional and relative clauses (e.g., 'students who complete internships or work placements during their degrees can gain experience...', 'Living and studying in another country can also improve their confidence...'). There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and grammar and punctuation are controlled well throughout the essay, demonstrating a strong command of sentence mechanics.

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