Tertiary Comparison Guide Reading Answers Ielts 2021 May 2026

What is a “Tertiary Comparison Guide” in IELTS Reading?

A Tertiary Comparison Guide is not a fixed text but a type of informational document you may encounter in IELTS Academic Reading. It typically appears in Section 2 or 3 and presents comparative data about universities, colleges, courses, fees, admission requirements, or student satisfaction. The word “tertiary” refers to education beyond high school (university, college, vocational training).

1. Matching Information to Paragraphs

Example: Which paragraph contains the following information? Tertiary Comparison Guide Reading Answers Ielts

  • Tables comparing tuition fees across institutions
  • Admission score requirements (e.g., IELTS, GPA)
  • Course duration and start dates
  • Graduate employment rates
  • Student-to-staff ratios

The "First and Last" Rule: In comparison guides, the most defining characteristic of a college or course is usually mentioned in the first or last sentence of its description. What is a “Tertiary Comparison Guide” in IELTS Reading

Answer: full-time

Tuition fees for international students are highest in the USA (average $35,000–$50,000/year), followed by Australia ($30,000–$45,000), the UK ($20,000–$35,000), and Canada ($15,000–$30,000). However, scholarships and work-study options differ per country. The "First and Last" Rule: In comparison guides,

Such texts often include: