Student loans and their impact on financial stability have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject resonates with many test-takers, particularly those from countries like India, China, and Vietnam, where higher education costs and student debt are growing concerns. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past tests:

Some people believe that students should pay for their own university education, while others think that the government should fund higher education. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question directly addresses the issue of student loans and financial stability by presenting two contrasting views on funding higher education. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the perspective that students should be responsible for their university costs
2. Examine the viewpoint that governments should provide funding for higher education
3. Present and justify their own opinion on the matter

The essay should be well-balanced, covering both sides of the argument before clearly stating the writer’s position.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses the question:

In recent years, the debate over who should bear the financial burden of university education has intensified. While some argue that students should be solely responsible for their higher education costs, others contend that governments should provide funding. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Those who believe students should pay for their own university education often argue that this approach instills a sense of responsibility and value for their studies. When students invest their own money, they may be more motivated to excel academically and make the most of their educational opportunities. Additionally, proponents of this view argue that university graduates generally earn higher salaries, making it fair for them to repay the costs of their education.

On the other hand, supporters of government-funded higher education emphasize the broader societal benefits of an educated population. They argue that when financial barriers are removed, a more diverse range of students can access university education, leading to greater social mobility and economic growth. Furthermore, government funding can help prevent the accumulation of crippling student debt, which can have long-lasting negative impacts on individuals’ financial stability and overall well-being.

In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both student contributions and government funding is the most effective solution. This hybrid model could involve government subsidies to reduce tuition fees, coupled with affordable student loan programs. Such an approach would maintain students’ sense of investment in their education while ensuring that higher education remains accessible to all qualified individuals, regardless of their financial background.

In conclusion, while both arguments have merit, I believe that a collaborative funding model between students and the government is the most equitable and sustainable solution. This approach can help strike a balance between individual responsibility and societal benefit, ultimately fostering a more educated and prosperous society.

(Word count: 296)

Student loans impact on financial stability infographic

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to its high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Furthermore”, “In conclusion”).

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “instills a sense of responsibility”, “societal benefits”, “social mobility”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with clear reasoning and examples.

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

Now, let’s examine a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

Nowadays, there is a debate about who should pay for university education. Some people think students should pay themselves, while others believe the government should provide funding. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Firstly, those who say students should pay for their own education have some good points. When students pay, they may value their education more and work harder. Also, university graduates often get better jobs and higher salaries, so it’s fair for them to pay back the cost of their education. This can help them learn to manage money better too.

However, there are also strong arguments for government funding of higher education. If the government pays, more people can go to university, even if they don’t have much money. This is good for society because it means more educated people who can contribute to the country’s development. Also, if students don’t have to pay, they won’t have big debts when they finish university, which is better for their future.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both approaches is best. Maybe the government could pay part of the cost, and students could pay the rest. This way, students still feel responsible for their education, but it’s not too expensive for them. The government could also offer loans with low interest rates to help students who need it.

To conclude, while there are good arguments on both sides, I believe a combination of student and government funding is the best solution. This can help make sure education is available to everyone while still teaching students to be responsible.

(Word count: 269)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates several characteristics that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant but less fully extended or supported compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

Student loan repayment strategies illustration

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Financial burden (noun) – /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈbɜːrdən/ – The costs or expenses that must be dealt with

2. Instill (verb) – /ɪnˈstɪl/ – To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind

3. Social mobility (noun) – /ˈsoʊʃəl məʊˈbɪləti/ – The ability to move between different social classes

4. Crippling (adjective) – /ˈkrɪplɪŋ/ – Causing a severe and almost insuperable problem

5. Hybrid model (noun) – /ˈhaɪbrɪd ˈmɒdl/ – A system that combines elements of different approaches

6. Subsidies (noun) – /ˈsʌbsədi/ – Money given as part of the cost of something to help or encourage it to happen

7. Equitable (adjective) – /ˈekwətəbl/ – Fair and impartial

8. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level

These vocabulary items can help elevate your essay and demonstrate a strong command of English.

Conclusion

The topic of student loans and their impact on financial stability is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The long-term economic effects of student debt on society
• The role of private sector in funding higher education
• Alternative models for financing university education

Remember to structure your essays clearly, develop your ideas fully, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.

IELTS Writing Task 2 essay structure diagram

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• Effectiveness of financial education in reducing personal debt
• Importance of financial literacy for reducing poverty
• Why financial education should be mandatory in schools

By studying these resources and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question related to student loans and financial stability in your IELTS Writing Task 2.