TOPIK Exam Guide – Korean Proficiency Test Levels, Structure & Tips

What is the TOPIK Exam?

The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is a standardized exam designed to assess the Korean language proficiency of non-native speakers. It is administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education in South Korea.

Who Should Take TOPIK?

Foreigners who wish to study at Korean universities
Job seekers planning to work in Korean companies
Individuals applying for F-5/F-6 visas or permanent residency
Korean language learners who want to track their progress

Exam Structure and Levels

TOPIK is divided into two major tests:

TOPIK I – for Beginners (Levels 1 and 2)
TOPIK II – for Intermediate and Advanced learners (Levels 3 to 6)

Sections and Duration

Each test evaluates different language skills:

TOPIK I: Listening and Reading (2 sections)
TOPIK II: Listening, Reading, and Writing (3 sections)

Test	Sections	Total Time
TOPIK I	Listening (30 mins) Reading (40 mins)	70 minutes
TOPIK II	Listening (60 mins) Writing (50 mins) Reading (70 mins)	180 minutes

Scoring System

Each section is scored out of 100. The total score determines your level.

TOPIK Test	TOPIK Level	Score Range
TOPIK I	Level 1	80 - 139
TOPIK I	Level 2	140 - 200
TOPIK II	Level 3	120 - 149
	Level 4	150 - 189
	Level 5	190 - 229
	Level 6	230 - 300

Exam Frequency and Registration

TOPIK is conducted 6 times a year in South Korea and 2–4 times a year internationally, depending on the country. Registration is usually done online via the official TOPIK website or local Korean cultural centers.

Why Take the TOPIK Exam?

University admissions in Korea
Employment in Korean-speaking environments
Immigration and visa requirements
Personal motivation and language milestones

TOPIK Exam