IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Competition for university study is becoming increasingly strong
Why are universities becoming more competitive?
Is this a positive or negative development?
Sample Answer:
Competition for university study has grown significantly in recent years, with an increasing number of students seeking admission to universities. This essay will analyse the causes behind this trend and discuss whether this is a positive or negative development.
The primary reason for the growing competition for university study is the rising cost of higher education. Universities today are becoming increasingly expensive, meaning that more people are looking for ways to finance their education, leading them to apply to multiple universities in order to ensure that they can attend one. Moreover, the job market has become more competitive in recent years, with more graduates competing for fewer jobs. This has led many students to seek higher education in order to gain an edge over the competition.
Another factor is the proliferation of online universities. The rise of online universities has made it easier for students to access higher education, as they no longer have to move to a campus in order to attend classes. This has led to an increase in the number of students applying for university study, as the barriers to entry have been reduced.
However, this increase in competition for university study has had both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it has made universities more competitive, leading to higher standards of education as universities strive to attract the best students. Moreover, it has encouraged students to work harder to gain admission, as they are aware that they are competing against a large number of other applicants.
On the other hand, the increased competition has made it harder for students to gain admission to universities, as universities have become increasingly selective. This can be particularly difficult for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, as they may not have the same access to resources or the same level of academic ability as other students. In addition, the competition can be stressful and can lead to students developing mental health problems.
In conclusion, while competition for university study has risen significantly in recent years, it has had both positive and negative effects. On the one hand, it has made universities more competitive and encouraged students to work harder. On the other hand, it has made it more difficult for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain admission and can be stressful for students.