The topic of university education accessibility for disadvantaged students has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in countries like India, China, and Vietnam. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme typically appears 2-3 times per year, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared.
Analysis of Task and Question Types
Common question variations include:
Some people believe that universities should make it easier for students from poor backgrounds and rural areas to gain admission. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This type of question tests your ability to:
- Evaluate social equality in education
- Discuss advantages and disadvantages
- Present and support a clear position
- Provide relevant examples
University admission process showing diverse student applications
Band 8 Sample Essay
Here is a high-scoring sample response:
The question of whether universities should lower barriers for disadvantaged students is complex and multifaceted. While I partially agree that institutions should make certain accommodations, I believe this must be balanced carefully with maintaining academic standards.
Firstly, providing easier access for underprivileged students can help create a more equitable society. Students from rural areas and low-income families often face significant obstacles in pursuing higher education, including limited access to quality schools, fewer educational resources, and financial constraints. By implementing targeted admission policies and support systems, universities can help level the playing field and give talented students from all backgrounds a fair chance at academic success.
However, universities must ensure that academic standards are not compromised. The primary purpose of higher education is to develop skilled professionals and advance knowledge in various fields. Lowering admission requirements too much could potentially reduce the quality of education and graduates’ competitiveness in the job market. Instead, universities should focus on providing additional support services, such as remedial courses, mentoring programs, and financial aid, to help disadvantaged students meet existing standards.
In my view, the most effective approach is to implement a balanced system that maintains high academic standards while providing targeted support for disadvantaged students. This could include merit-based scholarships for rural students, preparatory programs to bridge educational gaps, and financial assistance packages. Such measures would help create equal opportunities without compromising educational quality.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Here is a mid-range sample response:
In modern society, the issue of university access for poor and rural students is important. I agree that universities should make it easier for these students to get admission.
The main reason is that poor and rural students face many difficulties. They often have less money for education and their schools are not as good as city schools. When these students try to enter university, they are already behind other students. This is not fair because many of them are smart and work hard.
Also, helping these students can benefit society. When more people from different backgrounds get education, it helps reduce poverty. For example, in my country, when rural students finish university, they often return to their villages and help develop their communities. This makes the whole country better.
However, universities need to be careful about how they help these students. They should not lower their standards too much. Instead, they can give special scholarships and extra classes to help students catch up. This way, the quality of education stays good.
In conclusion, I think universities should help poor and rural students, but they must do it in the right way. This will make education fair for everyone.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (8): Clear position with balanced argument
- Coherence & Cohesion (8): Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary use
- Grammar (8): Complex sentences with few errors
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6): Clear position but less developed ideas
- Coherence & Cohesion (6): Basic organization with some linking
- Lexical Resource (7): Good vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex sentences
Rural students studying at university library
Key Vocabulary
- underprivileged (adj) /ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪdʒd/ – lacking advantages
- equitable (adj) /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – fair and impartial
- multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many aspects
- remedial (adj) /rɪˈmiːdiəl/ – intended to correct deficiencies
- competitiveness (n) /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – ability to compete successfully
- disparities (n) /dɪˈspærəti/ – differences, especially unfair ones
- targeted (adj) /ˈtɑːɡɪtɪd/ – aimed at a particular group
- bridging (v) /brɪdʒɪŋ/ – connecting or reducing differences
For practice, try writing your own essay about making higher education more accessible to disadvantaged groups in your country. Share your response in the comments for feedback and discussion.
