Student loan debt has become a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme frequently emerges in problem-solution essays or discussion essays, particularly in developed countries and emerging economies where higher education costs are rising significantly.
Analysis of Task Question
Some people believe that students should be responsible for paying their university fees and living costs. Others think that the government should pay for university education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on university funding
- Present arguments for student self-funding and government funding
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The debate over who should bear the financial burden of university education has intensified as tuition costs continue to rise globally. While some advocate for student responsibility, others support government funding. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own position.
Those who support student-funded education argue that individuals are the primary beneficiaries of their university degrees through higher earning potential and better career prospects. They contend that personal investment creates more motivated and responsible students who value their education more highly. Furthermore, self-funding encourages students to make practical degree choices aligned with market demands.
However, proponents of government-funded education emphasize its broader societal benefits. A well-educated population contributes to economic growth, innovation, and social development. They argue that charging high fees creates social inequality by limiting access to higher education for talented students from lower-income backgrounds. Countries like Germany and Norway demonstrate how free university education can foster social mobility and economic competitiveness.
In my view, a hybrid system represents the most balanced approach. While students should contribute partially to their education costs, governments should provide substantial subsidies and needs-based scholarships. This model ensures students maintain personal investment while preventing excessive debt burden. Additionally, government support should be strategically allocated to fields crucial for national development.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of who should pay for university education is important today. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think students should pay their own university fees. First, when students pay themselves, they try harder in their studies because it is their money. Second, if government pays for everyone, there will be too many students and not enough jobs later. Also, some students might choose easy subjects instead of useful ones.
Other people believe government should pay for university. They say education is important for country development and everyone should have chance to study. If students must pay high fees, poor families cannot send children to university. This is not fair. Also, some countries like Germany give free university and their economy is very good.
I think both students and government should share the cost. Students can pay some fees but not too much. Government should give scholarships to poor students who study well. This way is fair for everyone. Also, government can give more money to important subjects like medicine or engineering.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “bear the financial burden”, “broader societal benefits”
- Complex sentence structures with appropriate linking
- Clear progression of ideas
- Balanced discussion with well-developed arguments
- Coherent conclusion with nuanced position
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Main ideas present but less developed
- Some repetition and informal expressions
- Basic conclusion lacking sophistication
Key Vocabulary
- financial burden (n) /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈbɜːdn/ – monetary responsibility
- societal benefits (n) /səˈsaɪətl ˈbenɪfɪts/ – advantages for society
- social mobility (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl məʊˈbɪləti/ – ability to move between social classes
- needs-based (adj) /niːdz beɪst/ – determined by financial necessity
- economic competitiveness (n) /ˌekəˈnɒmɪk kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – ability to compete in global markets
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Role of private vs public funding in healthcare
- Government support for vocational training
- Financial assistance for international students
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.