IELTS writing samples with model answers

The bar chart compares the number of international university students in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom in 2016 and 2024.

Overall, enrolments rose in all three countries, but Canada saw by far the largest increase and moved from the lowest figure to the highest.

In 2016, the UK had the most international students, at about 230,000, followed by Australia with 180,000 and Canada with 150,000. By 2024, Canada’s figure had more than doubled to roughly 310,000, overtaking both of the other countries.

Australia and the UK grew more modestly. Australian enrolments increased by around 80,000 to 260,000, while the UK rose by about 50,000 to 280,000, leaving it in second place.

Dear Mr Wilson,

I am writing about a problem with the heating in Flat 4, which I moved into on 2 June. Since last Monday, the radiators in both bedrooms and the living room have stayed cold, even though the boiler seems to be switched on.

As the nights are now quite cold, this is making it difficult to sleep and to study in the evenings. I have been using a small electric heater, but it is expensive to run and only warms one room.

I would be grateful if you could arrange for a heating engineer to visit as soon as possible. I am at home after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on Saturday, but I am happy to leave a key with my neighbour if that is easier.

Thank you for your help. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Rahul Sharma

Every year, thousands of students consider whether to study overseas or at home. While studying abroad offers valuable experiences, I believe that the best choice depends on the student’s field and goals.

Supporters of studying abroad argue that it develops independence and international awareness. Living in another country forces students to manage money, solve problems and communicate in a second language. Employers often value these skills, especially in global companies. In addition, some universities offer specialised courses or research facilities that are not available at home.

On the other hand, studying in one’s own country can be equally effective. Many domestic universities provide high-quality teaching at a much lower cost, and students can build professional networks in the market where they plan to work. For careers that depend on local regulations, such as law or medicine, home study may even be more practical.

In my opinion, studying abroad is worthwhile when it gives students access to a course, skills or career pathway they cannot get at home. However, it should be a planned decision based on cost, career goals and the quality of the course, rather than an assumption that foreign study is always better.

In conclusion, both options can prepare students well for a career. The most important factor is choosing a course that matches the student’s long-term plans.