IELTS Band 9 Essay About Competition for university study is becoming increasingly strong
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Competition for university study is becoming increasingly strong”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Essay (Band 9)
Competition for university study is becoming increasingly strong.
Why are universities becoming more competitive?
Is this a positive or negative development?
In recent years, competition for university admissions has become increasingly intense, with students facing significant challenges in securing places at prestigious institutions. This growing competitiveness is driven by several factors, and while it fosters academic excellence, it also raises concerns about accessibility and mental health.
One primary reason for this heightened competition is the globalization of education. With the rise of international rankings and the reputation of elite universities, students from around the world strive to enroll in top-tier institutions. Consequently, universities receive an overwhelming number of applications, making the selection process more rigorous. Furthermore, the job market has become increasingly demanding, requiring higher qualifications for even entry-level positions. As a result, individuals view university degrees as essential, further intensifying the struggle for admission.
Another contributing factor is the expansion of scholarship programs and financial aid, enabling a broader demographic to pursue higher education. While this is a positive development in terms of equity, it simultaneously escalates the competition as more students apply for limited seats. Additionally, advancements in technology have made information more accessible, allowing students to prepare more effectively for admission tests, thereby raising overall standards.
From a positive perspective, increased competitiveness pushes universities to improve their educational standards, ensuring that only the most capable individuals gain admission. This, in turn, fosters a highly skilled workforce, benefiting economies and societies at large. However, excessive pressure can have negative implications, such as heightened stress and anxiety among students, potentially leading to burnout. Moreover, the focus on academic merit alone may marginalize talented individuals who excel in non-academic areas.
In conclusion, the growing competition for university places is driven by globalization, labor market demands, and greater access to financial aid. While this trend enhances academic excellence, it also presents challenges related to student well-being and inclusivity. Therefore, universities should strive to strike a balance between maintaining high standards and ensuring that education remains accessible to diverse groups of students.
5 Academic Words in the sample for Competition for university study is becoming increasingly strong
- Competition (/ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃən/) – The competition among students for limited university spots is fiercer than ever.
- Intense (/ɪnˈtɛns/) – The pressure to perform well in entrance exams is extremely intense.
- Rigorous (/ˈrɪɡərəs/) – The university’s rigorous selection process ensures that only the best candidates are accepted.
- Globalization (/ˌɡloʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/) – The globalization of education has led to an influx of international students.
- Scholarship (/ˈskɒlərʃɪp/) – He was awarded a full scholarship, allowing him to study at a prestigious university.
5 Advanced Grammar Structures and How They Enhance the Essay
Complex Sentences with Relative Clauses
- Example: One primary reason for this heightened competition is the globalization of education, which has led to an influx of international students.
- This structure improves coherence by connecting ideas logically and fluently.
Passive Voice for Formality
- Example: As a result, individuals view university degrees as essential, further intensifying the struggle for admission.
- The use of passive structures helps maintain an academic tone.
Cleft Sentences for Emphasis
- Example: It is the increasing demand for higher qualifications that has made university admissions more competitive.
- This structure adds emphasis to key ideas, making arguments more persuasive.
Conditional Sentences for Hypothetical Situations
- Example: If universities fail to address these challenges, many students may suffer from extreme stress and anxiety.
- This enhances the depth of analysis by exploring potential consequences.
Parallel Structures for Clarity and Emphasis
- Example: This trend enhances academic excellence, but it also presents challenges related to student well-being and inclusivity.
- Using parallel structures makes arguments more balanced and structured.
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