IELTS Writing Task 2 Agree Disagree Essay Sample

Access to higher education is widely regarded as a key driver of social mobility, and many argue that removing tuition fees would benefit society as a whole. I strongly agree that university education should be free, as it promotes equality of opportunity and generates long-term economic returns that outweigh the initial cost to governments.

The primary reason I support free university education is that it removes financial barriers for talented students from low-income families. In countries where tuition fees are high, such as the United States and England, research consistently shows that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are significantly less likely to attend university. By contrast, nations like Germany and Norway, where higher education is free, achieve much higher participation rates across all socioeconomic groups. This demonstrates that eliminating fees directly widens access and allows individuals to reach their full potential regardless of their family's wealth.

Furthermore, investing in free education delivers substantial economic benefits over time. University graduates typically earn higher salaries, pay more in tax, and contribute to innovation and productivity growth. A report by the OECD estimated that the public return on investment in tertiary education exceeds the cost in most developed countries. Therefore, while the upfront expense of funding free universities is considerable, it is ultimately a cost-effective strategy that strengthens a nation's workforce and economic competitiveness.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that university education should be free for all students. The evidence from countries that have adopted this policy shows that it both reduces inequality and delivers strong economic returns, making it a worthwhile investment for any government.