What are the TOPIK exams?
TOPIK aims to set a Korean language learning path for those who do not speak Korean as their native tongue, and to promote the Korean language by officially evaluating their Korean Language proficiency.
Founded in 1997 by the Korea Research Foundation, TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is designed and administered by the National Institute for International Education – NIIED.
It is an entity under the Korean Ministry of Education, the Republic of Korea. (국립국제교육원.)
TOPIK is the most globally recognized Korean language proficiency certification widely accepted by public and private educational institutions, governments, and corporations.
➕What knowledge and skills does the Korean TOPIK exam assess?
TOPIK test has two levels – TOPIK-I and TOPIK-II. TOPIK-I, i.e. the beginner level, has two sublevels – 1 & 2 while TOPIK-II, i.e. Intermediate-Advanced level, has 4 sublevels – 3, 4, 5 & 6.
TOPIK-I (Level 1-2) has just two sections – Reading and Listening. TOPIK II (Level 3-6), which is the combined Intermediate-Advanced test, has 3 sections – Reading, Listening and Writing.
➕What types of exams are there and what are they divided into?
[Beginner level]
1st Grade Use of basic commands of Korean for survival, such as greeting, purchasing, ordering, etc. Expressing and understanding oneself in simple everyday conversation by making simple sentences from 800 basic words.
2nd Grade Discussion of familiar topics employing a vocabulary of about 1,500∼2,000 words. Distinguishing correctly between formal and informal situations.
[Intermediate level]
3rd Grade Carrying out transactions with people in public spaces and maintaining social relationships. Understanding the correct usage of words and speech. Command of fundamental characteristics of Korean.
4th Grade Comprehension of news articles, general social issues and abstract topics with accuracy and fluency. Comprehension of Korean social and cultural contents relying on essential idioms and understanding of representative aspects of Korean culture.
[Advanced Level]
5th Grade High fluency in using the Korean language in professional research or work. Understanding and discussing less unfamiliar topics in politics, economics and other fields. Usage of appropriate expressions, distinguishing formal and informal, written and spoken, by context.
6th Grade Absolutely fluent in the Korean language for professional research or work, Capacity to understand and express oneself without problem, although without the full fluency of a native speaker.
➕What levels do the TOPIK exams certify?
| TOPIK | Grade | Levels |
|---|---|---|
| TOPIK I | 1 | Beginner |
| 2 | ||
| TOPIK II | 3 | Intermediate |
| 4 | ||
| 5 | Advanced | |
| 6 |
➕How long do the Korean TOPIK exams last for?
Generally the Beginner level test (TOPIK-I) is held in the morning and Intermediate-Advanced level test (TOPIK-II) in the afternoon. TOPIK-I is a 100 minutes test (40 minutes for Listening section and 60 minutes for Reading section) and will be finished in 1 session. TOPIK – II is a 3 a 3-hour exam, which is split into two sessions with a short break in between. The first session paper (110 minutes) consists of two sections: Listening and Writing and the second session paper (70 minutes) has one section – Reading.
➕What advantages does it have?
You can demonstrate your Korean proficiency level by giving the language test TOPIK since these certifications provide job seekers and employees a competitive advantage.
The Government of South Korea offers KGSP (Korean Government Scholarship Program) to deserving students to promote international exchange in education and mutual friendship amongst participating countries.TOPIK certification is a prerequisite for such a scholarship.Besides, these diplomas are recognized and accepted by Korean universities and Educational institutions for undergraduate entry as well as for postgraduate admission.
TOPIK is vital if you plan to apply for permanent residency or look for a working visa in South Korea. It is useful in the ‘Korea Immigration and Integration Program’ (KIIP) operated by the Ministry of Justice.
➕How long are the scores valid?
TOPIK results are valid for two years from the time of test result announcements.
How can you make your registration?
The registration and payment must be completed online. After the online registration for an English exam, you will receive the confirmation of your enrolment and information about the exam via email.
SEARCH EXAM SESSIONS FOR TOPIKOfficial recognitions
TOPIK is the most globally recognized Korean language proficiency certification widely accepted by public and private educational institutions, governments, and corporations.