The Tertiary Comparison Guide helps IELTS candidates master the Reading section’s “comparison” question types—questions that require comparing information across two or more texts or within multiple parts of a single passage. This feature breaks down the skills, strategies, and practice approaches needed to locate, evaluate, and present comparative answers accurately under exam conditions.
If you are looking for the answers to a specific "Tertiary Comparison Guide" passage, memorizing them is futile. Instead, analyze the logic of the answers:
1. Which pathway requires the highest ATAR score?
A) VET diploma
B) Apprenticeship
C) University degree
D) Online degree
Answer: C (University degree – ATAR 70+)
Explanation: Paragraph B explicitly states ATAR of 70 or above. Others have lower or no requirements.
2. What is a key benefit of apprenticeships mentioned in the passage?
A) Low tuition fees
B) Earning while learning
C) Shorter duration than university
D) No training required Tertiary Comparison Guide Reading Answers Ielts
Answer: B (Earning while learning)
Explanation: Paragraph D says, "Apprentices earn a wage while studying."
3. According to the guide, online degrees are particularly suitable for:
A) School leavers with high ATAR
B) Students who prefer practical work
C) Older students with other commitments
D) Those seeking the cheapest option
Answer: C (Older students with other commitments)
Explanation: Paragraph E mentions "flexibility for mature-age students." The Tertiary Comparison Guide helps IELTS candidates master
The IELTS reading section tests your ability to understand and analyze academic texts. These texts are often from university-level materials, making them quite challenging. When it comes to "tertiary comparison," we're looking at how texts might compare or contrast ideas, arguments, or findings within a higher education context.
In classification tasks, students often look for differences so hard that they forget to look for similarities. If the question asks, "Is this a feature of A, B, or both?" always check if the text says, "A and B agree that..." or "Both theories suggest..."
| Term | Meaning | |------|---------| | Outstrip | Exceed, be greater than | | Parity | Equality, same level | | Marginal difference | Very small gap | | Substantially higher | Much greater | | Correlate with | Match or relate to | | Prerequisite | Required condition | | Intake | Admission cycle (year/semester) |
Tertiary Comparison Guide
Paragraph A – Choosing the right tertiary pathway is a critical decision for school leavers. The options vary widely in cost, duration, and employment outcomes. The IELTS reading section tests your ability to
Paragraph B – University degrees typically require an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 70 or above. Courses last three to four years full-time, with tuition fees ranging from AUD 6,000 to AUD 30,000 per year. Graduates often pursue professional careers in law, medicine, or engineering.
Paragraph C – Vocational Education and Training (VET) offered at TAFE institutes provides practical skills. Entry is less competitive, often requiring only a Year 10 certificate. Diplomas take one to two years and cost AUD 4,000–15,000 annually. Graduates are job-ready for roles such as chefs, electricians, or IT technicians.
Paragraph D – Apprenticeships combine paid work with training. No formal entry scores are needed, but employers may require a pre-apprenticeship course. Duration is three to four years. Apprentices earn a wage while studying, making this debt-free option attractive.
Paragraph E – Online degrees offer flexibility for mature-age students. Entry requirements vary, but many providers accept work experience instead of ATAR. Costs are similar to on-campus study, but students save on accommodation and travel.