All university undergraduate courses should include a period of time spent studying abroad or doing a
work placement. Do you think the advantages of this would outweigh the disadvantages?
In my view, the advantages of making a period abroad or a work placement a compulsory part of every
undergraduate course would far outweigh the disadvantages, provided it is implemented with enough
flexibility and support.
The benefits are substantial and wide-ranging. Studying abroad exposes students to a different
culture, a new language and different teaching styles, which develops adaptability, independence and
cross-cultural understanding — qualities that are increasingly valued by employers. A work placement,
meanwhile, gives students real, practical experience of their field, helping them connect academic
theory with the workplace and build a network before they graduate. Both experiences build confidence
and employability, and many students find that they clarify their career direction early, saving them
from years in the wrong profession.
There are, however, genuine drawbacks to a compulsory scheme. The most obvious is cost: not every
student can afford to study abroad or take time away, and if the scheme is mandatory, it risks
excluding those from less wealthy backgrounds. There is also a practical concern about the length of a
degree, since squeezing in a placement or a year abroad can delay graduation and complicate course
planning. And for some subjects, an overseas or placement year may not be as relevant or as easy to
arrange, which could make it feel like a burden rather than an opportunity.
On balance, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, but only if the scheme is made accessible
and flexible. Funding and scholarships should be available to remove the financial barrier, and the
placement should ideally be a genuine choice of travel or work, so that every student can benefit.
With these safeguards, the experience of studying or working abroad becomes a truly valuable part of a
university education rather than an added hardship.
The question is answered directly: the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Both sides are fully
explored, and the conclusion shows real reflection, acknowledging the costs before resolving them.
Takeaway: For an "outweigh" question, state your verdict, give the strongest points on each side,
then show how the benefits can be achieved without the costs.
Balanced four-paragraph structure with a clear signposted verdict. Linkers ("The benefits are
substantial", "There are, however", "On balance") keep the argument clear and smooth.
Takeaway: Put the verdict in both the introduction and conclusion, and use "on balance" to
signpost your judgment.
Strong academic vocabulary: "adaptability", "cross-cultural understanding", "employability", "exclude",
"financial barrier", "safeguards". Register is formal and precise.
Takeaway: Learn education-specific vocabulary (*employability, a work placement, broaden your
horizons, financial barrier*).
Complex and accurate: conditionals ("if the scheme is mandatory", "provided it is implemented..."),
relative clauses ("which develops adaptability"), and concession. Error-free.
Takeaway: Use "provided that..." and "I believe... but only if..." to show advanced, conditional
reasoning.