IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Regulate the Cost of Higher Education? (Sample Essays for Band 6, 7, and 8)

The topic of government regulation of higher education costs is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to global education policies and socio-economic issues makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore this topic through a specific question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams.

Some people believe that governments should regulate the cost of higher education to make it more affordable for everyone. Others argue that universities should have the freedom to set their own fees. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should regulate higher education costs
2. Discuss the opposing view that universities should have fee-setting freedom
3. Provide and justify their own opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8 response.

Band 8 Sample Essay

The rising cost of higher education has sparked debates about whether governments should intervene to make it more accessible. While some argue for governmental regulation, others believe universities should retain autonomy in setting fees. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of government regulation argue that it would democratize access to higher education. By keeping costs in check, more students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds could pursue university degrees, potentially reducing income inequality and fostering social mobility. Furthermore, government oversight could prevent predatory pricing practices and ensure that educational institutions prioritize student welfare over profit margins.

On the other hand, those advocating for university autonomy contend that free market principles should apply to higher education. They argue that competition among universities leads to improved quality and innovation in educational offerings. Additionally, the freedom to set fees allows institutions to invest in cutting-edge research, attract top-tier faculty, and maintain state-of-the-art facilities, all of which contribute to a higher standard of education.

In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary. While complete government control might stifle innovation and reduce educational quality, unchecked fee increases could make higher education inaccessible to many. I believe a system of partial regulation, where governments set upper limits on fee increases and provide substantial financial aid, coupled with allowing universities some flexibility in fee-setting, would be ideal. This approach could maintain educational quality while ensuring broader access to higher education.

In conclusion, the issue of regulating higher education costs is complex and multifaceted. A nuanced solution that balances governmental oversight with institutional autonomy is likely to yield the best outcomes for students, universities, and society at large.

(Word count: 282)

Explanation of Band 8 Score

This essay achieves a Band 8 score for several reasons:

1. Task Response: It fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
3. Lexical Resource: It demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures with minimal errors.

Government regulation of higher education costs

Band 7 Sample Essay

The question of whether governments should control university fees or allow institutions to set their own prices is a contentious issue. This essay will examine both sides of the argument before presenting my personal view.

Those in favor of government regulation argue that it would make higher education more accessible. By keeping fees under control, more students from lower-income families could afford to attend university. This could lead to a more educated workforce and potentially reduce social inequality. Additionally, government oversight could prevent universities from charging excessively high fees that might put students in long-term debt.

However, opponents of regulation believe that universities should have the freedom to determine their own fees. They argue that this allows institutions to invest in better facilities, hire top-quality staff, and fund important research. Furthermore, market competition could drive universities to offer better value for money, potentially improving the overall quality of education.

In my opinion, a middle ground approach would be most beneficial. While complete deregulation could lead to unaffordable fees for many, strict government control might limit universities’ ability to improve and innovate. I believe a system where the government sets broad guidelines and provides financial support, while still allowing universities some flexibility in fee-setting, would be ideal.

To conclude, the issue of regulating university fees is complex. A balanced approach that considers both accessibility and quality of education is likely to be the most effective solution.

(Word count: 253)

Explanation of Band 7 Score

This essay achieves a Band 7 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: It addresses all parts of the task, though with less depth than the Band 8 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized but uses simpler linking words.
3. Lexical Resource: It uses a good range of vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8 essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with good control.

Band 6 Sample Essay

The cost of higher education is a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should control university fees, but others say universities should decide their own prices. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

People who want government control say it will make university cheaper for everyone. If the government sets the prices, more students can go to university, even if they don’t have much money. This is good because more people can get educated and get better jobs. Also, it stops universities from charging too much money.

But some people think universities should choose their own fees. They say this lets universities spend money on good teachers and new buildings. They also think that if universities compete with each other, they will try to give better education for less money.

I think both ideas have good points. If the government controls everything, universities might not have enough money to be really good. But if universities can do whatever they want, some people might not be able to afford to study. Maybe the best way is for the government to make some rules about fees, but also let universities have some choice.

In conclusion, controlling university fees is not easy. I think the government and universities need to work together to make higher education good quality but also affordable for students.

(Word count: 226)

Explanation of Band 6 Score

This essay achieves a Band 6 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: It addresses the task, but the ideas are less developed compared to higher band essays.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but uses basic linking words.
3. Lexical Resource: It uses adequate vocabulary, but lacks precision and sophistication.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses mainly simple sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Regulate (verb) /ˈreɡjʊleɪt/ – to control or supervise something by means of rules
2. Affordability (noun) /əˌfɔːdəˈbɪləti/ – the state of being cheap enough for people to be able to buy
3. Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
4. Socio-economic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
5. Predatory pricing (noun phrase) /ˈpredətəri ˈpraɪsɪŋ/ – the practice of setting prices low to eliminate the competition
6. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
7. Stifle (verb) /ˈstaɪfl/ – to prevent something from happening or developing
8. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
9. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
10. Deregulation (noun) /ˌdiːreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ – the removal of regulations or restrictions

In conclusion, the topic of government regulation of higher education costs is a complex and important issue that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding different perspectives and being able to articulate them clearly, you can improve your chances of achieving a high band score.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of private education in society
• The impact of student loans on career choices
• The value of vocational education compared to university degrees

Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.