Structure your essay by dedicating one distinct body paragraph to explaining why universities charge higher fees and another to arguing whether this is a positive or negative development. Many candidates lose crucial marks by only addressing one part of a two-part question, so ensure clear topic sentences introduce each aspect.

When explaining the 'why', consider arguments like universities using international fees as a vital revenue stream to subsidize research, maintain infrastructure, or offset costs for domestic students. For the 'positive/negative' aspect, you could discuss the economic benefits for host countries (e.g., UK, Australia) versus the ethical concerns regarding equity and potential brain drain from developing nations.

The most common mistake is presenting a superficial analysis without delving into the underlying economic or ethical complexities. Avoid simply listing pros and cons; instead, develop a clear, well-supported argument for your stance on whether it's positive or negative, even if you acknowledge counter-arguments.

To transition smoothly between the two parts of the question, use a linking phrase that connects the 'why' to the 'impact'. For instance, after discussing the reasons, you could begin the next paragraph with: "Having explored the financial imperatives behind this tuition disparity, it is pertinent to now evaluate the broader societal and ethical implications of such a policy."

Examiners look for a nuanced discussion that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the issue, going beyond simple explanations. A band 8-9 answer will demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of economic realities, ethical considerations, and global educational trends, supported by precise academic vocabulary and a consistently clear, well-developed argument.