Free IELTS Academic Writing Practice

Some people believe that university education should be free for everyone, while others argue that students should pay for their studies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Self-check rubric

Have you fully addressed both views and clearly stated your own opinion?
Does your essay follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion?
Have you used a range of linking words and cohesive devices to connect ideas?
Have you supported your arguments with relevant examples or evidence?

Skills to practise

Developing balanced arguments on a controversial topicUsing comparisons and concessions to show both sidesParaphrasing the prompt naturally in your introductionStructuring an opinion essay with a consistent position

Phrases to remember

It is often argued thatfree access to education is a fundamental rightshoulder the financial burdenpromotes social mobilityon the one handin my view, a mixed approach is preferable

Band 6.5 pattern

Some people say university should be free because everyone deserves education. But other people think students should pay because it is their own benefit. I believe free university is good for society but it may cost a lot of money for the government. For example, in Germany education is free and many people go to university. However, it is expensive for the state. In my opinion, education should be free only for those who cannot afford it.

Some people sayeveryone deserves educationit is their own benefitfree university is good for societyit may cost a lot of moneyeducation should be free only for those who cannot afford it

Band 7.5 pattern

While some argue that tertiary education should be fully funded by the state, others contend that students should bear the cost. On the one hand, free access to university promotes equality and ensures that talent is not wasted due to financial constraints. On the other hand, funding such a scheme places a heavy burden on public finances. I personally lean towards a middle ground: education should be subsidised, but those who can afford it should contribute. For instance, many European countries offer low tuition while maintaining quality.

fully funded by the stateshould bear the costpromotes equalityfinancial constraintsa heavy burden on public financesI personally lean towards a middle ground

Band 8.0 pattern

Proponents of free university education emphasize its role in fostering social mobility and reducing inequality. Conversely, opponents highlight the significant fiscal strain on governments and the potential devaluation of degrees if higher education becomes overly accessible. My stance is that a universal free education model risks inefficiency; instead, means-tested support systems are more viable. This approach, exemplified in countries like Australia where income-contingent loans are used, ensures that financial background does not prohibit access while maintaining accountability and quality.

fostering social mobilityreducing inequalitysignificant fiscal strainpotential devaluation of degreesmeans-tested support systemsincome-contingent loans

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