Student loans have become a significant factor influencing career decisions for many graduates. This topic has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, and its relevance is likely to increase in the future. To help you prepare, let’s analyze a recent question on this subject and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Some people believe that students should be required to pay back their student loans in full, regardless of their future income. Others argue that loan repayment should be based on a graduate’s earnings. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question asks you to discuss two opposing views on student loan repayment and provide your own opinion. It’s crucial to address both perspectives and clearly state your stance. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. View 1: Full repayment regardless of income
2. View 2: Income-based repayment
3. Your opinion on the issue

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

The issue of student loan repayment has become increasingly contentious as education costs continue to rise. While some advocate for full repayment regardless of a graduate’s financial situation, others argue for an income-based approach. In my opinion, a hybrid system that considers both principles would be the most equitable solution.

Those who support full repayment argue that it instills a sense of responsibility and ensures that the education system remains financially viable. They contend that students who willingly take on debt should honor their commitment, regardless of their future circumstances. This view also posits that a blanket repayment policy is fair and straightforward to implement.

On the other hand, proponents of income-based repayment assert that this approach is more equitable and aligns with the principle that education should be accessible to all. They argue that graduates entering lower-paying fields or facing unemployment should not be burdened with unmanageable debt. This system could prevent graduates from falling into financial hardship and encourage them to pursue careers based on passion rather than solely on earning potential.

In my view, a balanced approach that incorporates elements of both systems would be most beneficial. A tiered repayment structure could be implemented, where graduates pay a minimum amount regardless of income, with additional payments based on earnings above a certain threshold. This would ensure some level of repayment while protecting those with lower incomes from excessive financial strain.

Moreover, such a system could include incentives for public service or working in high-need areas, offering partial loan forgiveness to encourage graduates to consider careers that benefit society. This approach would strike a balance between personal responsibility and societal needs, potentially leading to a more diverse and motivated workforce across various sectors.

In conclusion, while both full repayment and income-based models have their merits, a hybrid system offers the best solution. By combining elements of both approaches, we can create a fair and flexible repayment structure that supports graduates’ career choices while maintaining the sustainability of the education system.

Student loan repayment options comparison chart

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

The topic of student loan repayment is very important today. Some people think students should pay back all their loans no matter how much they earn later. Others believe repayment should depend on the graduate’s income. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support full repayment say it teaches responsibility. They think if someone borrows money, they should pay it back completely. This could make students think carefully before taking loans. It might also keep the education system working well because it will have enough money.

However, people who want income-based repayment say it’s fairer. They argue that some graduates might not find high-paying jobs right away, so they shouldn’t have to pay back so much. This could help graduates choose jobs they like instead of only looking for high salaries. It might also stop people from having too much debt that they can’t pay.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both ideas could work best. Maybe graduates could pay a small amount no matter what, but then pay more if they earn more money. This way, everyone pays something, but people with less money don’t suffer too much. It’s important to consider the impact of student debt on career choices when designing repayment systems.

Also, I think there could be special rules for people who work in important jobs that don’t pay a lot, like teachers or nurses. Maybe they could get some of their loans forgiven if they work in these jobs for a long time. This could encourage more people to choose these important careers.

In conclusion, both full repayment and income-based repayment have good points. I believe a system that uses parts of both ideas would be the best solution. This could help graduates choose careers they like while still paying back their loans in a fair way.

Band 5-6 Sample Essay

Student loans are a big problem for many people. Some think students should pay all their loans back, but others say it should depend on how much money they make after graduation. I will talk about both ideas and give my thoughts.

People who want full repayment say it’s fair because students chose to take the loans. They think it teaches students to be responsible with money. It also helps keep schools running because they get all the money back.

But some people think repayment should be based on income. They say this is better because some graduates might not get good jobs right away. If they don’t earn much money, it’s hard to pay back big loans. This way might help students choose jobs they like instead of just looking for high pay.

I think both ideas have good points. Maybe a mix of both could work. Students could pay back some money no matter what, but pay more if they get high-paying jobs. This seems fair to me.

Also, maybe there could be special rules for people who work in important jobs that don’t pay much, like teachers. They could get some of their loans forgiven. This might make more people want to do these important jobs.

In conclusion, I think a mix of both ideas is best. It could help students pay back loans without too much stress and let them choose jobs they like. Managing debts effectively for the future is crucial for graduates’ financial well-being.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:

1. Clear organization with well-developed paragraphs
2. Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
3. Thorough exploration of both viewpoints
4. A nuanced personal opinion with a suggested hybrid solution
5. Relevant examples and logical arguments

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows good writing ability but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band score. Notable features:

1. Clear structure with distinct paragraphs for each viewpoint
2. Good use of linking words and phrases
3. Adequate vocabulary with some attempt at more complex expressions
4. A clear opinion with some supporting ideas
5. Some minor errors in grammar and word choice

Band 5-6 Essay:

This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the task but has several limitations:

1. Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
2. Limited development of ideas
3. Basic organization with some repetition
4. A personal opinion is given but lacks detailed support
5. More frequent errors in grammar and word choice

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈten.ʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
2. Equitable (adjective) /ˈek.wɪ.tə.bəl/ – fair and impartial
3. Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl/ – capable of working successfully
4. Blanket (adjective) /ˈblæŋ.kɪt/ – covering or applying to everything or everyone
5. Proponent (noun) /prəˈpəʊ.nənt/ – a person who advocates for something
6. Tiered (adjective) /tɪərd/ – arranged in tiers or levels
7. Threshold (noun) /ˈθreʃ.həʊld/ – a level, point, or value above which something is true or will take place
8. Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsen.tɪv/ – something that encourages a person to do something
9. Forgiveness (noun) /fəˈɡɪv.nəs/ – the act of pardoning someone for a mistake or wrongdoing
10. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level

In conclusion, the impact of student loans on career choices is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding different perspectives and practicing with sample essays, you can improve your ability to address this and similar subjects effectively. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures appropriate to your target band score.

For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:

• The role of government in funding higher education
• The pros and cons of free university education
• The impact of rising education costs on society

The importance of saving for education cannot be overstated, as it can significantly reduce the need for student loans. Share your practice essays in the comments section below to receive feedback and engage in discussions with other learners. This active approach to learning can greatly enhance your IELTS Writing skills.