Education Vocabulary for IELTS

 This is a list of useful Education vocabulary for IELTS.

Education is common topic in IELTS. This vocabulary will help you with all parts of the test if the topic arises. 

As with the other vocabulary on these pages, although common word forms are given, not all word forms are here, so remember that once you understand the word you should study it further to make sure you understand exactly how it is used in different contexts.

You will see here:

• The word/phrase
• Defintion
• Examples

At the bottom of the page you will find links to essays connected to education topics. 

Essential IELTS Education Vocabulary

Attendance

The action or state of going regularly to or being present at a place or event.

• Attendance is mandatory for all students during the school term.
• Regular attendance is important for academic success.

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Cheating

To behave in a dishonest way in order to get what you want.

• He did really well in his exams but he cheated. He copied from a friend.
• Cheating on exams is not recommended.

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Co-educational

When male and female students are taught together in the same school or college rather than separately

• I believe that co-educational schools prepare students for their future better than single-sex schools.
• Co-educational schools provide an inclusive environment where boys and girls learn together, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

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Concentrate

To direct your attention or your efforts towards a particular activity, subject, or problem.

• It is difficult to concentrate on my college work if there is a lot of noise.
• I keep losing concentration due to the noise.

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Coursework

Regular work done by students as part of a course, but assessed independently of formal exams.

• The coursework on my degree was really difficult.
• The coursework for my biology class includes conducting experiments, writing lab reports, and completing research assignments.

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Curriculum

The group of subjects studied in a school, college, etc.

• Schools must ensure they have an excellent curriculum.
• The school's curriculum includes a diverse range of subjects such as mathematics, science, literature, and physical education to provide students with a well-rounded education.

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Distance Learning

Education that takes place remotely, often utilizing online resources and communication technologies.

• Many universities offer distance learning programs for students who are unable to attend classes on campus.
• The pandemic led to a surge in popularity for distance learning platforms.

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Extracurricular

Activities pursued by students outside the regular curriculum.

• I participate in several extracurricular activities like debate club and chess team.
• Extracurricular activities help students develop a well-rounded skill set.

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To Graduate

To complete a first university degree successfully.

• I graduated from the University of Salford in 2009.
• My graduation ceremony was in 2009.

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Higher or Tertiary Education

Non-compulsory education after finishing school, such as university, as well as vocational education and training at colleges.

• 60% of children now go into higher education after they finish school.
• After completing secondary school, many students choose to pursue tertiary education at universities or colleges to further their academic and career goals.

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Homework

Tasks assigned by teachers to be completed outside of class.

• I have a lot of homework to do tonight, including a math worksheet and a history essay.
• Homework reinforces what we learn in class.

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Illiterate

Unable to read and write.

• Many children in the poorest countries are illiterate.
• Due to the lack of access to education, many adults in the rural village remained illiterate, unable to read or write even basic texts.

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Literacy

The ability to read and write.

• Literacy rates have declined considerably in Western countries over the last decade.
• However, most children are literate.

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Plagiarism

The practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own.

• Plagiarism is a serious offense in academic settings and can result in disciplinary action.
• The student was expelled for plagiarizing an entire research paper.

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Primary Education or School

First years of formal education from around age 5 to 11, also called elementary school.

• A good primary education is crucial for a child's development.
• Elementary school teachers focus on building foundational skills in reading, writing, and mathematics to prepare young students for future academic success.

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Qualification

An official record showing that you have finished a training course or have the necessary skills, etc.

• Good qualifications are really important if you want to get a well-paid job.
• I am qualified to teach English.

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Secondary Education or School

Education during the years of around 11 to 16 or 18. It's also referred to as high school in the US.

• I loved it at my secondary school as I had so many friends.
• In secondary school, students typically study a broader range of subjects in preparation for higher education or vocational training.

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Semester

A division of the academic year, typically lasting several months, during which classes are held.

• We have finals at the end of each semester.
• The fall semester begins in September and ends in December.

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Tuition

A sum of money charged for teaching or instruction by a school, college, or university.

• The university increased tuition fees by 10% this year.
• Many students rely on scholarships to help cover their tuition costs.

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Undergraduate

A student at a college or university who has not yet earned a bachelor's degree.

• I'm an undergraduate majoring in biology.
• Undergraduate students often take a variety of general education courses.

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Virtual Classroom

An online learning environment where students and teachers interact in real-time.

• Due to the pandemic, we shifted to a virtual classroom for the remainder of the semester.
• The virtual classroom allows students to participate in discussions from anywhere with an internet connection.

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Workshop

A seminar or series of meetings for intensive study or training in a particular subject.

• I attended a writing workshop to improve my essay skills.
• The workshop on time management was very informative.

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