IELTS General Writing Task 1 – Request for a Partial Refund
Model Answer (Band 8–8.5)
Dear Ms Carter,
I am writing regarding the eight-week IELTS preparation course I purchased from you last month. Unfortunately, several aspects of the programme did not meet the expectations created during our initial discussion.
Before enrolling, I was told that the course would include personalised feedback on every writing task, weekly speaking practice, and access to updated study materials. However, feedback was often limited to a few brief comments, two speaking sessions were cancelled, and some of the worksheets appeared outdated. As a result, I did not receive the level of individual guidance I had expected.
I appreciate that the course required considerable preparation, and I found several of the reading strategies useful. For that reason, I am not seeking a full refund. Nevertheless, given that some of the services originally promised were not provided, I believe a partial refund of 35% would be fair.
I would be grateful if you could review my request and confirm whether this amount can be refunded within the next two weeks.
Yours sincerely,
Emily Foster
Analytical Review – Strengths, Weaknesses & Improvements
- Appropriate semi-formal to formal tone for writing directly to a private tutor.
- Clear explanation of what was promised and what was actually delivered.
- Specific supporting details make the complaint credible and well developed.
- Strong collocations such as “personalised feedback,” “individual guidance,” “partial refund,” “services originally promised”.
- The writer remains polite while making a clear and reasonable request.
- The exact course fee is not mentioned, although this is not necessary for IELTS Task Achievement.
- If the original exam prompt contains three bullet points, ensure each point receives clear development.
- Avoid sounding emotional or accusatory; focus on objective differences between the promised and delivered service.
- State a realistic refund percentage rather than making a vague request.
- did not meet expectations → fell short of expectations
- brief comments → limited written feedback
- individual guidance → personalised academic support
- partial refund → partial reimbursement
- would be fair → would be a reasonable and proportionate solution
- Use precise examples rather than general complaints.
- Balance criticism with acknowledgement, as in “I found several of the reading strategies useful.”
- Use cohesive devices naturally: “However,” “As a result,” “For that reason,” “Nevertheless”.
- Keep the final request direct, polite, and practical.