The topic of student loans and debt crisis has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly over the past 5 years. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme appears in approximately 15% of education-related questions, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared for this subject matter.
For students concerned about importance of managing debts for financial growth, understanding how to effectively write about this topic is essential for achieving higher band scores.
Recent Task 2 Question Analysis
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.
Question Breakdown
- Topic: University education funding
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key areas to address:
- Student self-funding perspective
- Government funding perspective
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over who should bear the financial burden of higher education has sparked considerable discussion. While some advocate for student responsibility in covering educational expenses, others maintain that governments should fully fund university education. I believe a balanced approach combining both funding sources would be most beneficial.
Those who support student-funded education argue that it promotes responsibility and value appreciation. When students invest their own money in education, they tend to take their studies more seriously and make more informed choices about their academic paths. This perspective aligns with importance of keeping low debt-to-income ratios, encouraging financial literacy from an early age.
However, proponents of government-funded education emphasize that it ensures equal access to higher education. They contend that relying solely on student funding can perpetuate social inequality, as talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds might be deterred from pursuing higher education due to financial constraints. This consideration of impact of student debt on housing choices shows how educational debt can affect long-term life decisions.
In my opinion, a hybrid system would be most effective. Governments should provide basic funding and financial aid for deserving students, while students could contribute a reasonable portion of their educational costs. This approach would maintain educational quality while ensuring accessibility.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about who should pay for university education. Some people think students should pay their own fees and costs, while others believe the government should pay everything. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
First, when students pay for their education, they value it more. They work harder because they spend their own money. Also, they choose their courses more carefully. This helps them focus better on their studies.
But government-funded education has benefits too. Many smart students cannot afford university fees. If the government pays, everyone has a chance to study. This makes society more fair and helps poor people get better jobs.
I think both sides should share the cost. The government can help poor students with scholarships, and other students can pay some fees. This way, education stays good quality but isn’t too expensive for anyone.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “perpetuate,” “deterred,” “constraints”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization and cohesion
- Well-developed arguments
- Appropriate academic tone
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Adequate organization
- Limited development of ideas
- Informal tone at times
Key Vocabulary
- perpetuate (v) /pəˈpetʃueɪt/ – to cause something to continue
- deterred (adj) /dɪˈtɜːd/ – discouraged from doing something
- constraints (n) /kənˈstreɪnts/ – limitations or restrictions
- accessibility (n) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached
- hybrid (adj) /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – combining different elements
Conclusion
As this topic continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations, candidates should practice writing about various aspects of student loans and educational funding. For those interested in why financial literacy is essential for economic growth, developing strong arguments on this topic is crucial.
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- Rising costs of higher education
- Impact of student debt on career choices
- Alternative education funding models
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.