IELTS Band 9 Essay About Some people think that all university students should study
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some people think that all university students should study”. 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 100 band 9 IELTS samples released in April 2025.
Sample Essay (Band 9)
Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those relate to science and technology. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
There is ongoing debate regarding whether university students should be free to choose their fields of study or be required to focus solely on subjects that are deemed economically viable in the future, such as science and technology. While both arguments have merit, I believe a balanced approach that respects individual interests while acknowledging societal needs is the most sustainable path forward.
On one hand, allowing students to pursue subjects of their own choosing promotes personal fulfillment, creativity, and long-term engagement with learning. Fields like the arts, philosophy, and literature may not directly translate into high-paying jobs, but they contribute significantly to cultural enrichment, critical thinking, and ethical reflection. Moreover, when students are intrinsically motivated by their passion for a subject, they are more likely to excel and innovate. Forcing students into predetermined disciplines risks producing graduates who lack genuine interest or aptitude in their field, which could ultimately lower the quality of work in those sectors.
On the other hand, advocates of a more utilitarian model argue that governments and universities have a responsibility to prioritize fields that drive economic growth and technological advancement. As the world becomes increasingly digital, expertise in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is in high demand. Training a workforce equipped to handle future challenges in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy is vital for national competitiveness. Therefore, directing students into high-impact disciplines is viewed by some as a necessary investment in the future.
In my view, however, a one-size-fits-all approach is neither practical nor fair. A thriving society requires a diversity of knowledge and perspectives. While it is reasonable to encourage students to consider future job markets, this should be achieved through guidance and incentives, not rigid restrictions. A flexible educational system that nurtures both vocational and non-vocational disciplines will be more adaptable to the complex and changing demands of the future.
In conclusion, although prioritizing practical subjects has certain advantages, limiting students’ academic freedom can have unintended negative consequences. Universities should strive to balance freedom of choice with strategic planning, ensuring both individual satisfaction and societal progress.
📚 5 Academic Vocabulary Items in the sample for Some people think that all university students should study
- Economically viable /ˌiː.kəˈnɒ.mɪ.kəl.i ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl/
Sentence: Renewable energy sources are becoming more economically viable each year. - Sustainable /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/
Sentence: Investing in education is a sustainable strategy for long-term development. - Enrichment /ɪnˈrɪtʃ.mənt/
Sentence: Cultural enrichment through the arts plays a vital role in society. - Intrinsically /ɪnˈtrɪn.zɪ.kəl.i/
Sentence: He is intrinsically motivated by curiosity rather than external rewards. - Prioritize /praɪˈɒr.ɪ.taɪz/
Sentence: Governments must prioritize healthcare and education in their budgets.
🧠 5 Advanced Grammar Structures
- Concessive Clauses
Example: “Although prioritizing practical subjects has certain advantages…”
➤ This structure shows the writer can express contrast and balance ideas — essential for coherence. - Passive Voice
Example: “…subjects that are deemed economically viable…”
➤ Adds formality and an academic tone; avoids overuse of personal pronouns. - Complex Noun Phrases
Example: “a one-size-fits-all approach” / “a flexible educational system”
➤ Demonstrates lexical resource and structural complexity. - Modal Verbs for Recommendations
Example: “…this should be achieved through guidance and incentives…”
➤ Shows ability to make polite, appropriate suggestions — common in opinion essays. - Relative Clauses
Example: “students who lack genuine interest or aptitude in their field…”
➤ Adds detail and precision; helps clarify the writer’s argument.
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