The topic of limiting university access to top academic performers has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme typically emerges 2-3 times annually, often framed around educational equality, merit-based admission, or resource allocation in higher education.
University admission officers reviewing student applications and academic records
Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic:
Some people think that universities should only accept students with the best academic scores, while others think universities should accept students with different academic scores and talents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires:
- Discussion of two contrasting views on university admission criteria
- Clear presentation of arguments for both positions
- Personal opinion with supporting evidence
- Balanced analysis of the implications
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In the ongoing debate about university admission criteria, some advocate for accepting only top academic performers, while others support a more inclusive approach considering diverse talents. While academic excellence is crucial, I believe universities should embrace a holistic admission policy that recognizes various forms of potential.
Those who support restricting university access to top students argue that this ensures high academic standards and optimal resource utilization. Elite institutions particularly contend that admitting only the most academically gifted students maintains educational quality and institutional prestige. Furthermore, this approach arguably prepares graduates better for demanding professional roles and advanced research positions.
However, focusing solely on academic scores overlooks other valuable qualities and talents. Many successful entrepreneurs and innovators were not necessarily top academic performers but possessed exceptional creativity, leadership skills, or practical abilities. Additionally, a diverse student body enriches the learning environment by bringing different perspectives and experiences to classroom discussions and collaborative projects.
In my view, universities should implement a balanced admission policy that considers both academic performance and other capabilities. This approach would create more inclusive educational opportunities while maintaining academic standards through minimum grade requirements. Such a system could include evaluating extracurricular achievements, leadership potential, and specific talents relevant to chosen fields of study.
Moreover, this inclusive approach better serves society’s needs by developing diverse talent pools across various sectors. It acknowledges that different professions require different skill sets, not all of which are accurately measured by academic scores alone. This strategy also promotes social mobility and ensures that capable students from disadvantaged backgrounds have opportunities for higher education.
Diverse group of university students engaged in interactive classroom discussion
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about who should be allowed to study at universities. Some people think only students with top grades should get admission, but others believe universities should accept students with different scores and abilities.
Students with high academic scores have many advantages. They usually study hard and understand difficult subjects better. These students can handle university coursework more easily and might get better jobs after graduation. Also, when universities have only top students, they can teach more advanced topics and finish the syllabus faster.
However, there are good reasons to accept students with different scores. Many students are good at sports, music, or art, even if their grades are not perfect. These students can make the university more interesting and help other students learn new things. Some students might have lower scores because they had problems in their family or didn’t have good schools, but they could still do well in university.
I think universities should accept both types of students. They should look at grades but also consider other talents and backgrounds. This way, more students can get education and universities can have different kinds of students. But universities should still have some minimum grade requirements to make sure students can handle the studies.
This system would be better because it gives more people a chance to study. It also helps society because we need different kinds of workers and professionals. Some jobs need high grades, but others need different skills that might not show in exam scores.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Comprehensive coverage of all aspects
- Coherence & Cohesion: Excellent paragraph organization
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary use
- Grammar: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main points but less developed
- Coherence & Cohesion: Basic organization with some linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but simpler vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- Elite (adj) /ɪˈliːt/ – selective, exclusive
- Holistic (adj) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – comprehensive, complete
- Prestigious (adj) /preˈstɪdʒəs/ – respected, esteemed
- Merit-based (adj) /ˈmerɪt beɪst/ – based on achievement
- Inclusive (adj) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – comprehensive, including many elements
- Innovative (adj) /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ – new, creative
- Criterion (n) /kraɪˈtɪəriən/ – standard for judgment
- Aptitude (n) /ˈæptɪtjuːd/ – natural ability
- Academic prowess (n) /ˌækəˈdemɪk praʊəs/ – scholarly excellence
- Socioeconomic (adj) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or a similar one:
Some argue that university education should be restricted to students who can pay for it themselves. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
