IELTS General Task 1: Letter Explaining a Decision to Postpone a Course

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Writing Prompt

You have enrolled in a course at a college but you now need to delay the start of your studies until the following year.

Write a letter to the college admissions office. In your letter:

give the details of the course you have enrolled in
explain why you need to postpone your studies
ask what you must do to keep your place on the course

Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

Show Band 8–9 model answer

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing regarding my recent enrolment on the full-time Diploma in Digital Marketing, commencing on 15 September 2025. My student ID is DM4276.

Unfortunately, due to unexpected family circumstances, I must request to defer my studies until the 2026 intake. My mother has recently undergone major surgery and, as her only close relative living nearby, I am responsible for providing daily support during her recovery. Her doctors estimate that she will require continuous assistance for at least the next nine to twelve months, which would make it impossible for me to commit fully to the course timetable and associated assignments.

Given these circumstances, I would be grateful if you could advise me on the formal procedure for postponing my start date while retaining my place. In particular, I would like to know whether a deferral form is required, if there are any fees involved, and whether my existing tuition deposit can be transferred to the next academic year.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and guidance. I look forward to hearing from you about the next steps.

Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]

Why this response works

This response clearly addresses all three bullet points with specific, relevant details (course name, date, and ID; concrete family/medical reason; explicit questions about procedure, fees, and deposit). The tone is consistently formal and appropriate for an admissions office. Cohesion is strong, with logical paragraphing and effective linking phrases ("Unfortunately, due to", "Given these circumstances", "In particular"). Lexical resource is varied yet natural (e.g. "unexpected family circumstances", "retain my place", "transferred to the next academic year"). Grammatical structures are accurate and flexible, using complex sentences and passive forms without noticeable errors, matching a high Band level sample.