Education: IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Opinions differ on how university education should be funded. Some people believe it should be free for all students, whereas others think that students should pay their own tuition fees. In my view, university should be free for students from lower-income families, but those who can afford to contribute should do so.

Those who favour free higher education argue mainly from the principle of fairness. If degrees are expensive, talented young people from poor families may decide not to apply, or may choose a shorter course simply to avoid years of repayments. Free tuition guarantees equal access to education, so that a student's future depends on ability and effort rather than on their parents' income. Society as a whole also benefits, because every country needs a skilled workforce of doctors, engineers and teachers, and it makes sense for the public to invest in training them.

On the other hand, there are strong arguments for asking students to pay. Graduates usually earn more over their lifetimes than people without degrees, so it seems reasonable that they, rather than taxpayers who may never have studied, should cover at least part of the cost. In addition, when universities rely entirely on government funding, they may be short of money whenever the economy struggles, which can lead to overcrowded lecture halls and fewer staff. Fees therefore provide universities with a more stable income.

In my opinion, the best solution combines elements of both views. Students from low-income backgrounds should receive means-tested grants that cover their tuition and part of their living costs, while better-off families pay a reasonable amount. This approach protects equal opportunity without placing an unlimited burden on the public purse, and it allows universities to remain properly funded.