University or a job after school: IELTS Task 2 essay #11, band 7.5
A student’s answer to this repeated IELTS question, shared without their name and marked by Axiom on the four criteria. Select a highlighted passage to see how it could be revised, and why.
442 words. Marked by Axiom on 1 March 2025. Estimated by AI. It isn’t an official IELTS score.
Task 2442 words
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career. While others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career. While others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
It is common to see many people advocating for studying at tertiary education as it often leads to promising careers. However, some argue that getting a job straight upon graduation is a practical choice in many respects.
Lexical resource
RevisedI personally support the latter perspective for several reasons.
The word 'perspective' is more appropriate in this context than 'view'.
To begin with, it is commonly believed that higher qualifications result in better job opportunities, which means that specialized knowledge and skills university provides aid people to increase their employability in many professional fields, such as medicine, engineering and law where university degree is often required. Another advantage of studying at third-level education is higher earning potential. Many people without degrees now tend to make a complaint about their low salaries. In contrast, those with higher education diploma are more likely to earn higher salaries as many high-paying jobs require advanced education and expertise. this is why, many people encourage younger individuals to pursue university degree, which is sure to improve job prospects.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedOn the one hand, proponents of studying at university cite valid reasons.
The revised sentence is more concise and removes the unnecessary 'the' before 'those'.
Starting a job upon graduation enables students to gain hands-on experience, develop practical skills that universities do not necessarily provide. With gained experience and developed skills, one can work productively and make a meaningful contribution to the betterment of a certain company and country. Additionally, there are some careers and business startups which do not require university degree. Having a degree in a specific field is not always necessary.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedHowever, the benefits of getting a job straight after school should not be overlooked.
The revised sentence is more concise and clear.
Lexical resource
RevisedNot only does starting a job offer opportunities to gain experience, but it also helps students to become financially independent, allowing them to earn money that might otherwise be spent on university education.
The revised sentence corrects the verb agreement and rephrases the sentence for clarity.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedSuccess in the business world, as exemplified by figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, often requires experience and skills that can be gained through work rather than formal education.
The revised sentence provides a more general and inclusive example, making the point more effectively.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedTherefore, it is critical to bear in mind that students should be encouraged to develop important skills and gain experiences, which will yield more benefits in the long run.
The revised sentence corrects the verb form and improves the sentence flow.
In conclusion, while some argue that increasing employability and higher earning potential are the main motives why studying at university is often desirable, I firmly believe that gaining skills, experience, and financial stability are key advantages of starting a job immediately after school.
Select a highlighted passage to see its suggested revision.
What Axiom wrote for each criterion: why the answer earned its band, and what to work on next.
Coherence & cohesion
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay is logically organized and the ideas are connected well. However, there are a few areas where the flow of ideas could be improved.
Suggestions
- Use more linking words to improve the flow of ideas.
- Ensure that each paragraph has a clear central topic.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedHowever, the benefits of getting a job straight after school should not be overlooked.
The revised sentence is more concise and clear.
RevisedSuccess in the business world, as exemplified by figures like Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, often requires experience and skills that can be gained through work rather than formal education.
The revised sentence provides a more general and inclusive example, making the point more effectively.
Grammar & accuracy
Band 7.0/ 9
The essay demonstrates a good range of grammatical structures and is generally free from major errors. However, there are a few minor errors that could be corrected.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedOn the one hand, proponents of studying at university cite valid reasons.
The revised sentence is more concise and removes the unnecessary 'the' before 'those'.
RevisedTherefore, it is critical to bear in mind that students should be encouraged to develop important skills and gain experiences, which will yield more benefits in the long run.
The revised sentence corrects the verb form and improves the sentence flow.
Lexical resource
Band 7.0/ 9
The essay demonstrates a good range of vocabulary and idiomatic language. However, there are a few instances of awkward or incorrect word choice.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedI personally support the latter perspective for several reasons.
The word 'perspective' is more appropriate in this context than 'view'.
RevisedNot only does starting a job offer opportunities to gain experience, but it also helps students to become financially independent, allowing them to earn money that might otherwise be spent on university education.
The revised sentence corrects the verb agreement and rephrases the sentence for clarity.
Task response
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay addresses the task effectively, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The arguments are well-developed and supported with relevant examples. However, the essay could be improved by providing more specific examples to support the arguments.
Suggestions
- Include more specific examples to support your arguments.
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