The topic of scholarships and financial aid in education frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in essays discussing the role of education in addressing social inequalities. Based on analysis of past exams, this theme appears in approximately 15% of education-related questions, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to master.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should provide financial aid to university students from low-income families, while others argue that all students should pay for their own education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussing arguments for government financial aid
- Examining perspectives against financial support
- Providing a balanced analysis
- Expressing and supporting personal opinion
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over whether governments should financially support university students from disadvantaged backgrounds has generated considerable discussion. While some advocate for self-funded education, I strongly believe that providing financial assistance is crucial for promoting social and economic mobility.
Those opposing government aid argue that students should be responsible for their educational expenses. They contend that self-funding creates more motivated and responsible learners who value their education more highly. Additionally, they suggest that taxpayer money could be better spent on other public services.
However, proponents of financial aid emphasize its role in creating equal educational opportunities. Without such support, many talented students from low-income families would be unable to pursue higher education, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Furthermore, investing in education generates long-term societal benefits through increased economic productivity and reduced social inequality.
In my view, government financial assistance is essential for creating a fair and prosperous society. Research consistently shows that countries with robust educational support systems experience higher social mobility and economic growth. Moreover, the benefits of an educated workforce far outweigh the initial investment in student aid.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
These days, there is much discussion about whether governments should give money to poor students for university education. This essay will look at both sides of this issue.
Some people think students should pay for their own university costs. They say this makes students work harder because they understand the value of money. Also, government money comes from taxes, and not everyone agrees with spending it on university students.
On the other hand, many people believe education should be free or supported by the government. Poor students often cannot afford university fees, which means they miss opportunities. This is not fair and can cause problems in society.
I think governments should help poor students go to university. This helps create a better society where everyone has chances to succeed. However, maybe students should pay back some money after they get jobs.
Key Vocabulary
- Financial aid (n) /faɪˈnænʃəl eɪd/ – monetary assistance
- Socioeconomic (adj) /ˌsoʊsioʊˌekəˈnɑːmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- Perpetuate (v) /pərˈpetʃueɪt/ – to cause to continue
- Equity (n) /ˈekwəti/ – fairness and impartiality
- Mobility (n) /moʊˈbɪləti/ – ability to move between social levels
Conclusion
This topic remains highly relevant to The role of education in promoting social mobility. Practice writing similar essays about:
- Merit-based vs. need-based scholarships
- Private sector involvement in student funding
- Universal free education vs. targeted support
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.