Band 8 IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay on University Subjects with Balanced Argument Feedback
Sample Answer with Feedback

📅 Published Jun 2026⏱️ 40 minutes recommended📝 322 words · Band 8
This essay on university subjects scored a band 8 by effectively discussing both perspectives and articulating a clear opinion. The arguments are well-organized, leveraging a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, making it a strong response. However, to reach an even higher band, it could benefit from more specific examples.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

Discuss both views · University Students · 40 min


There are two opposing views on whether university students should be free to choose their own subjects or whether they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write at least 250 words.



8Band

Overall Band Score

322 words · Discuss both views · AI Evaluated

8
Task Response
8
Grammar
8
Vocabulary
8
Coherence

Score Breakdown

IELTS Writing Band Scores (1–9)

Overall Band Score
8
Task Response
8
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
8
Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
8
Coherence & Cohesion
8

Summary: The essay effectively addresses the task, presenting a balanced discussion of both views with a clear personal opinion, while meeting the minimum word requirement. The response is well-organized with appropriate use of cohesive devices and a wide range of vocabulary. Grammatical structures are varied and accurate.

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Student Answer
Real submission • 322 words • Annotated
322 wordsBand 8WritingPart2
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There are two opposing views on whether university students should have the freedom to choose any subjects they like or whether they should be restricted to studying subjects that are expected to be useful in the future, particularly science and technology. While both perspectives have valid arguments, I believe that students should be allowed to choose their own fields of study.

On the one hand, supporters of science- and technology-related subjects argue that these disciplines are essential for economic growth and technological advancement. In today's rapidly changing world, countries require skilled engineers, scientists, and IT specialists to remain competitive in the global market. Furthermore, graduates in these fields often enjoy better employment prospects and higher salaries. As a result, directing students toward such subjects may help reduce unemployment and address labor shortages in key industries.

On the other hand, many people believe that university students should be free to select subjects according to their interests and abilities. Not every individual is talented in science or technology, and forcing students to study these areas could lead to poor academic performance and a lack of motivation. In addition, society depends on professionals from a wide range of fields, including education, law, arts, and social sciences. These disciplines contribute significantly to cultural development, social stability, and public well-being. Therefore, limiting students' choices could have negative consequences for society as a whole.

In my opinion, students should have the right to decide what they study at university. Personal interest plays a crucial role in academic success, and people are more likely to excel in careers they genuinely enjoy. Although science and technology are undoubtedly important, other fields are equally valuable and should not be neglected.

In conclusion, while studying science and technology can bring economic benefits and improve job opportunities, students should remain free to choose subjects that match their interests and strengths. This approach is more likely to produce motivated graduates and a balanced society.

AI Feedback Report Details

Spelling · Grammar · Vocabulary · Criteria Analysis

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Submit your University Students essay and receive AI scores across all four IELTS criteria — with specific feedback on whether your solutions are specific, realistic, and matched to your problems.

Detailed Criteria Feedback

AI-powered analysis for each scoring criterion

Task Response8
Evaluation
The essay thoroughly addresses the task by discussing both sides of the argument and providing a clear personal opinion. Each view is given appropriate attention.
Examples
The essay discusses the importance of science and technology for economic growth and contrasts this with the importance of allowing freedom of choice in studies for personal interest.
How to Improve
To achieve a higher band, consider providing more specific examples or data to support your points.
Coherence & Cohesion8
Evaluation
The essay demonstrates good organization and logical progression. Cohesive devices are effectively used, making the argument easy to follow.
Examples
Phrases like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand' clearly signal the discussion of two views.
How to Improve
Enhance coherence by ensuring all paragraphs consistently link back to the main argument.
Lexical Resource8
Evaluation
The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary aptly and precisely, with few errors.
Examples
Terms like 'economic growth', 'technological advancement', and 'cultural development' enhance lexical richness.
How to Improve
To improve, incorporate more nuanced vocabulary or idiomatic expressions related to education and career choice.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy8
Evaluation
A wide variety of sentence structures are used correctly and effectively.
Examples
The essay includes complex sentences such as 'Although science and technology are undoubtedly important, other fields are equally valuable'.
How to Improve
To score higher, consider incorporating more intricate sentence structures and ensure absolute grammatical precision.
💡
Tip: Review the Band 9 model answer to see how a high-scoring essay structures arguments, uses advanced vocabulary, and maintains coherence throughout.

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