What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad- IELTS Writing Task 2

Achieving proficiency in the IELTS Writing Task 2 poses a difficulty for numerous test-takers as it assesses your ability to write a well-structured and cohesive essay in response to a given topic. Hence, it is essential to enhance your essay writing abilities before undertaking the IELTS to ensure success. 'Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad' is an Advantages and Disadvantages essay that assesses a writer’s ability to evaluate both the positive and negative aspects of a particular issue. To effectively prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2, it is highly recommended to practice with a variety of sample essays. 

Question

Structure Breakdown

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad – Band 7 Sample Answer 

Introduction:

Studying abroad has become much more prevalent in this current day and age than it was before. Today, nearly every student considers studying abroad for higher education, especially for their Master’s degree. Since travelling to a foreign country has become relatively straightforward, people are availing themselves of the best of opportunities. However, there are both pros and cons to studying abroad, making it a challenging decision to take. In the following paragraphs, I will go through the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad.

Body Paragraph 1:

The present-day economy is known to be competitive and demanding. Today, if an individual is not decorated with impressive degrees and accolades, they are bound to miss out on various profitable opportunities. Amidst such relentless competition, an individual will inevitably choose to be educated at a reputable academic institution. Since the quality of education is often not superlative in developing countries, people from such nations tend to move abroad for better alternatives. Also, the amount of time a student spends studying abroad and adapting to the foreign environment significantly increases their interpersonal skills and facilitates their overall development.

Body Paragraph 2:

On the contrary, there are numerous limitations to choosing a foreign university for higher education. First and foremost, we must acknowledge that studying and living abroad is an exceedingly costly affair. Most students have to give up on their ambition of studying abroad due to financial hindrances. Moreover, staying away from one’s family and native place is an onerous ordeal. There are also several cases of discrimination and social exclusion against non-native students, which makes it difficult for such individuals to adopt the lifestyle of the host country.

Conclusion:

Finally, I would like to end by saying that, like any other course of action, studying abroad has both benefits and drawbacks. It is upon the individual who needs to weigh their options and make a prudent decision.

Band 7 Vocabulary for Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad

Now check out some relevant vocabulary used in the above Band 7 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essay on advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad.

• Prevalent

Meaning: widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.

Example: There are many social obstacles still prevalent in today’s society.

• Challenging

Meaning: testing one’s abilities; demanding.

Example: The journey was lengthy and challenging.

• Accolades

Meaning: an award or privilege granted as a special honour or as an acknowledgement of merit.

Example: The army officer was presented with numerous accolades.

• Superlative

Meaning: of the highest quality or degree.

Example: She possessed a superlative skill in dancing.

• Exceedingly

Meaning: extremely.

Example: The Taj Mahal is an exceedingly beautiful monument.

• Hindrances

Meaning: a thing that provides resistance, delay, or obstruction to something or someone.

Example: There were many hindrances during the execution of the plan.

• Onerous

Meaning: (of a task or responsibility) involving a great deal of effort, trouble, or difficulty.

Example: The duty of raising a child is an onerous task.

• Prudent

Meaning: acting with or showing care and thought for the future.

Example: He made a prudent decision in the end.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad – Band 8 Sample Answer

Introduction:

Studying abroad has become increasingly popular in recent years, with students from all over the world opting to pursue their higher education in foreign countries. There are many advantages to studying abroad, including a better learning experience, international exposure, and enhanced employment opportunities. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider, such as the high cost of living and education, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the potential for homesickness.

Body Paragraph 1:

One of the biggest advantages of studying abroad is that it provides students with a better learning experience. Foreign universities often offer more specialized programs and cutting-edge research facilities than their domestic counterparts. Additionally, students are able to learn from world-renowned professors and interact with classmates from diverse backgrounds. This can lead to a more well-rounded education and a deeper understanding of the world.

For example, students who study engineering at a top university in Germany may have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, as well as the opportunity to work on research projects with leading experts in the field. Similarly, students who study business at a prestigious university in the United States may have the chance to learn from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Body Paragraph 2:

Another advantage of studying abroad is that it exposes students to new cultures and perspectives. This can help them to become more open-minded and tolerant individuals. It can also give them a competitive edge in the global job market, as employers increasingly value candidates with international experience.

For example, a student who studies abroad in Japan may learn about Japanese culture and values, such as the importance of hard work and respect for elders. This knowledge can be invaluable when applying for jobs in Japanese companies. Similarly, a student who studies abroad in France may learn about French business culture and etiquette. This can be helpful when working with French clients or colleagues.

Body Paragraph 3:

Finally, studying abroad can enhance students’ employment opportunities. Many employers are looking for candidates with international experience and intercultural skills. Students who have studied abroad can demonstrate these skills through their resumes, cover letters, and job interviews.

For example, a student who has studied abroad in China may have the opportunity to work for a Chinese multinational company. A student who has studied abroad in India may be able to land a job in a tech company in Bangalore. In both cases, the student’s international experience will give them an advantage over other candidates.

Conclusion:

Overall, the advantages of studying abroad outweigh the disadvantages. While the cost of studying abroad can be high, there are many scholarships and financial aid options available. Additionally, the challenges of adapting to a new culture can be overcome with careful planning and preparation. For students who are willing to put in the effort, studying abroad can be a life-changing experience.

Band 8 Vocabulary for Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad

Have a look at the IELTS Vocabulary for Band 8 sample answer on 'Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad'.

• Opting (verb)

Meaning: choosing, selecting.

Example: Students from various countries are opting to study abroad for a more comprehensive educational experience.

• Cutting-edge (adjective)

Meaning: innovative, advanced.

Example: Foreign universities often provide students with access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.

• Well-rounded (adjective)

Meaning: comprehensive, balanced.

Example: Interacting with diverse classmates contributes to a student’s well-rounded educational experience.

• Invaluable (adjective)

Meaning: extremely useful or valuable.

Example: The knowledge of local culture and customs can be invaluable for students seeking employment in foreign countries.

• Etiquette (noun)

Meaning: the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

Example: Understanding French business etiquette can be crucial for effective communication in a professional setting.

• Multinational (adjective)

Meaning: involving or operating in several nations or countries.

Example: Students with international experience have an edge when applying to multinational companies.

• Life-changing (adjective)

Meaning: having such a strong effect that it changes one’s life.

Example: For many students, the experience of studying abroad is truly life-changing, shaping their perspectives and future opportunities.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad – Band 9 Sample Answer

Connectors Used in the Above Sample Answers of Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad

Connectors, also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors and linking words for writing used in the above sample answers:

• While
• For instance
• Conversely
• Consequently
• In conclusion
• However
• For example
• Overall

Now that you have gone through the sample answers on the topic – Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying Abroad – it is time for you to try writing on your own. For that, leave your answers as a comment below or you can use our Free IELTS Writing Essay Evaluation and Correction Service!

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