Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-27

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)

In recent years, there has been increasing discussion about whether all undergraduate students should be required to spend some time studying abroad or completing a work placement. Although this policy could create financial and practical difficulties for some students, I believe that its advantages would outweigh its disadvantages.

One major advantage of studying abroad or undertaking work experience is that students can develop skills that are difficult to acquire through classroom education alone. A work placement, for example, allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real professional environment. They can learn how to communicate with colleagues, solve practical problems and manage responsibilities. Similarly, studying in another country can expose young people to different cultures and ways of thinking. These experiences can make graduates more independent and adaptable, which are valuable qualities in today's competitive job market. For instance, a university student studying business who completes an internship in another country could gain both professional experience and a better understanding of international business practices.

However, there are some disadvantages to making such experiences compulsory. The most obvious concern is the financial burden. Travelling abroad, paying for accommodation and meeting daily expenses can be extremely expensive, particularly for students from low-income families. In addition, some students may find it difficult to adapt to a foreign culture or may experience homesickness. A compulsory work placement could also be unsuitable for certain academic disciplines where practical employment is less relevant.

Nevertheless, I believe these disadvantages can be reduced through financial support and flexible arrangements. Universities could provide scholarships or allow students to complete placements within their own country when international travel is not practical. Students could also be given different placement options according to their field of study.

In conclusion, although compulsory study abroad or work placements could create financial and personal difficulties, I believe the benefits are greater. The opportunity to gain practical experience, develop independence and understand different cultures can significantly improve students' personal and professional development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of making study abroad or work placements compulsory, and clearly states a position in the introduction that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Ideas are well developed and extended throughout the body paragraphs. For example, the student explains how a work placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in a real professional environment and provides a relevant example of a business student completing an internship. The counter-arguments regarding financial burdens and cultural adaptation are also thoughtfully explored and balanced with sensible mitigating suggestions, such as scholarships and local placement options. The position is maintained consistently and clearly throughout the essay, meeting all requirements for a high band.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with a well-formulated introduction, moving into the advantages and disadvantages in the body paragraphs, addressing mitigating factors, and concluding with a concise summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'Although this policy', 'For example', 'Similarly', 'However', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct thematic ideas. Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, ensuring that the reader can follow the writer's arguments without any confusion or unnecessary repetition.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient and generally precise range of vocabulary suitable for an academic task. There is a good mix of common and less common lexical items used with adequate awareness of style and collocation, such as 'theoretical knowledge', 'competitive job market', 'compulsory work placement', and 'financial burden'. Word choice is generally accurate, and although some phrases are somewhat standard, communication is clear and fluent throughout. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate, reflecting strong lexical control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of sentence structures, successfully combining simple, compound, and complex sentences. The student demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation. Complex structures are handled securely, as seen in clauses such as 'Although this policy could create financial and practical difficulties for some students, I believe that its advantages would outweigh its disadvantages.' The majority of sentences are error-free, and any minor slips do not impede communication. Punctuation is accurate and guides the reader effectively through the text.

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