Read an informal IELTS letter writing sample on the topic: Giving advice to your friend who wants to take a course at university.
A friend of yours is thinking about applying for the same course that you did at university. He/she has asked for your advice about studying this subject.
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
- give details of the course you took at the university
- explain why you recommend the university
- give some advice about how to apply
Dear Sarah,
I am writing this letter to advise you about the course you should take at the university.
I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Science at National University. The course covered a wide range of subjects, including Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, which provided me with a strong theoretical foundation and practical skills. The professors were highly experienced, and the curriculum was well-structured, making learning both engaging and rewarding.
I highly recommend this university because of its excellent academic reputation and supportive learning environment. The faculty members are knowledgeable and approachable, and the university offers various extracurricular activities and networking opportunities, which helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Regarding the application process, I suggest checking the university’s official website for deadlines and required documents. Ensure you prepare a strong personal statement highlighting your interest in the subject. If you need any help with your application, feel free to reach out.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,
Nikolson
Band Score Analysis (7.0):
1. Task Achievement (7.0):
- All three points are covered clearly and logically.
- The letter stays relevant and maintains a natural, friendly tone.
2. Coherence and Cohesion (7.0):
- Logical progression of ideas with smooth transitions (e.g., “I highly recommend this university because…,” “Regarding the application process…”).
3. Lexical Resource (6.5 – 7.0):
- A good range of vocabulary, but some phrases could be more precise or varied.
4. Grammar and Accuracy (6.5 – 7.0):
- Mostly grammatically correct, but some sentences could be more refined for conciseness and impact.
Key Improvement Points:
- Make the introduction more engaging.
- Enhance lexical variety and sentence structure.
- Provide more specific reasons for recommending the course.
To learn more about how IELTS writing task 1 is being assessed by the examiners visit: British Council IELTS Writing Task 1 Band Descriptors.
