The topic of student debt and its influence on career decisions is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, this theme has appeared multiple times in the past year and is likely to continue featuring in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that closely mirrors those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Many young people are in debt by the time they finish their university studies. Some people say that this is having a negative effect on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss the impact of student debt on individuals and society. Key points to consider:
- The extent of agreement or disagreement with the statement
- Effects on individuals (e.g., financial stress, career choices, delayed life milestones)
- Effects on society (e.g., economic implications, social mobility)
- Potential counterarguments or alternative perspectives
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Student debt has become an increasingly pressing issue in many countries, with far-reaching consequences for both individuals and society at large. In my opinion, I strongly agree that the burden of educational loans is indeed having a detrimental effect on graduates and the broader community.
On an individual level, the weight of student debt can significantly alter a person’s life trajectory. Graduates often find themselves compelled to prioritize high-paying jobs over careers that align with their passions or societal needs, simply to meet loan repayment obligations. This financial pressure can lead to increased stress, delayed major life decisions such as homeownership or starting a family, and a reduced quality of life during what should be formative years of personal and professional growth.
From a societal perspective, the implications of widespread student debt are equally concerning. When a substantial portion of young professionals is burdened with significant loans, it can lead to reduced consumer spending and economic growth. Moreover, this financial strain may discourage individuals from pursuing further education or entrepreneurial ventures, potentially stifling innovation and social progress. The cycle of debt can also exacerbate income inequality, as those from less privileged backgrounds may be more hesitant to pursue higher education due to the associated costs.
However, it is important to acknowledge that student loans have enabled many to access education who might otherwise have been unable to do so. The challenge lies in striking a balance between educational accessibility and the long-term financial well-being of graduates. Potential solutions could include implementing more affordable education models, expanding loan forgiveness programs for public service roles, and improving financial literacy among students.
In conclusion, while student debt has facilitated educational opportunities, its negative impacts on individuals and society are substantial and cannot be ignored. It is crucial for policymakers, educational institutions, and society as a whole to address this issue and work towards more sustainable models of higher education financing.
(Word count: 309)
Student debt impacting career choices and life decisions
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that student debt is causing problems for individuals and society. Many students finish university with a lot of debt, which can make their lives difficult.
For individuals, student debt can be very stressful. People with big loans might have to choose jobs they don’t like just to pay back the money. They might also have to wait longer to buy a house or start a family because of their debt. This can make them unhappy and anxious about their future.
In society, student debt can cause bigger problems. When many young people have debt, they can’t spend money on other things, which can slow down the economy. Also, some people might decide not to go to university because they are afraid of getting into debt. This means society might miss out on skilled workers in important jobs.
However, student loans do help some people go to university who couldn’t afford it otherwise. This can be good for society because more people get education. But the high costs and big debts are still a big problem.
To fix this, governments could try to make university cheaper or find better ways to help students pay for their education. They could also teach students more about managing money so they can make better choices about loans.
In conclusion, I think student debt is causing serious problems for both individuals and society. We need to find ways to make education more affordable so that people can study without getting into too much debt.
(Word count: 253)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I think student debt is a big problem for people and society. Many students have a lot of debt when they finish university. This can be bad for them and everyone else.
For students, having debt is hard. They have to pay back a lot of money every month. This means they might not be able to buy things they want or need. They might feel worried about money all the time.
For society, it’s also not good. When many young people have debt, they can’t spend money on other things. This can be bad for businesses and the economy. Also, some people might not go to university because they are scared of getting debt. This means we might not have enough doctors, teachers, or other important workers.
But student loans can help some people go to university who couldn’t go without them. This is good because more people can get education. But the problem is that the debt is too big for many people.
I think we need to find ways to make university cheaper. Or maybe we can find better ways to help students pay for university without getting so much debt. We should also teach students about money so they understand loans better.
In conclusion, I agree that student debt is causing problems for people and society. We need to do something to make it better.
(Word count: 218)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately
- Organizes ideas coherently with clear progression
- Uses examples and explanations effectively to support arguments
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, but the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary and grammar with some errors that do not impede communication
- Arranges information coherently and there is a clear overall progression
- Uses some examples and explanations, but they may not be fully developed
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses limited range of vocabulary and simple grammatical structures
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
- May use some examples, but they may be unclear or irrelevant
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Score Comparison
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Burden (noun) /ˈbɜːrdn/: A heavy load or responsibility
- Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/: Causing harm or damage
- Trajectory (noun) /trəˈdʒektəri/: The path followed by someone or something
- Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪt/: To make a problem or situation worse
- Stifle (verb) /ˈstaɪfl/: To prevent or constrain
- Implications (noun) /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃnz/: The possible effects or results of an action
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Formative (adjective) /ˈfɔːrmətɪv/: Having an important and lasting influence on development
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The introduction of new ideas or methods
To effectively use these words, practice incorporating them into your own writing and speaking. For example, you could discuss how the “burden of student debt can stifle innovation” or how “accessibility to education has implications for social mobility.”
Conclusion
The impact of student debt on career choices is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions such as:
- Some argue that governments should provide free university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- In some countries, students are encouraged to take a gap year before starting university. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
- Many believe that the cost of higher education is becoming prohibitive. What solutions can you suggest to address this issue?
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- The importance of financial education in reducing inequality
- How to address the rising cost of education
- Should governments regulate the cost of higher education?
These resources can provide additional perspectives and vocabulary to enhance your understanding of the topic and improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 performance.