The TOPIK Exam for Beginners: Levels, Registration, and Study Plans

 

Complete guide to TOPIK exam for beginners covering test levels, registration process, scoring system, and effective study plans to pass.

Table of Contents

• What is the TOPIK Exam?
• Understanding TOPIK Levels and Structure
• TOPIK Exam Format and Sections
• Scoring System and Passing Requirements
• How to Register for TOPIK
• TOPIK Exam Schedule and Important Dates
• Creating an Effective Study Plan for Beginners
• Proven Preparation Strategies and Resources
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Test Day Tips and What to Expect

What is the TOPIK Exam?

The Test of Proficiency in Korean, commonly known as TOPIK (한국어능력시험), is the official standardized examination designed to measure and evaluate the Korean language proficiency of non-native speakers. Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), a division of South Korea's Ministry of Education, this globally recognized certification has become the gold standard for assessing Korean language abilities worldwide.

Since its inception in 1997, TOPIK has served multiple critical purposes in the Korean language learning community. For students aspiring to study at Korean universities, the TOPIK certificate is often a mandatory admission requirement, with most institutions requiring minimum levels ranging from TOPIK 3 to TOPIK 5 depending on the program. International professionals seeking employment opportunities in South Korea frequently need TOPIK certification to demonstrate their language competency to potential employers, particularly for positions requiring direct communication with Korean clients or colleagues.

The examination's importance extends beyond academic and professional realms. Foreigners applying for F-series visas, including permanent residency in South Korea, must submit TOPIK scores as part of their application documentation. Additionally, the test provides learners with an objective benchmark to measure their progress in Korean language acquisition, offering clear, internationally recognized validation of their linguistic capabilities.

TOPIK is administered multiple times annually in over 80 countries across six continents, making it accessible to Korean language learners globally. The test is available in two formats: Paper-Based Test (PBT) and Internet-Based Test (IBT), with the latter gradually expanding to more locations. The official TOPIK website (www.topik.go.kr) provides comprehensive information about test dates, registration procedures, and preparation materials in multiple languages including English, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese.

Understanding TOPIK Levels and Structure

TOPIK is structured into two distinct examination types: TOPIK I and TOPIK II, which together encompass six proficiency levels. This bifurcated structure allows the test to accurately assess candidates across the entire spectrum of Korean language ability, from absolute beginners to near-native speakers. Understanding this hierarchical system is essential for selecting the appropriate test and setting realistic study goals.

TOPIK I, designated as the beginner-level examination, evaluates fundamental Korean language skills and awards certifications for Levels 1 and 2. This test is specifically designed for learners who have studied Korean for approximately 80-200 hours and possess basic conversational abilities. Level 1 represents elementary proficiency, where candidates can understand and use simple phrases related to daily life, introduce themselves, and handle basic survival situations such as ordering food or asking for directions. Level 2 indicates low-intermediate competency, with the ability to use Korean in routine situations, make simple telephone calls, and understand conversations on familiar topics.

TOPIK II encompasses the intermediate to advanced spectrum, covering Levels 3 through 6. This more challenging examination assesses sophisticated language skills necessary for academic study, professional work environments, and complex social interactions. Level 3 represents solid intermediate proficiency, enabling candidates to maintain social relationships, distinguish between written and spoken language registers, and comprehend essential characteristics of Korean culture reflected in language use. Level 4 indicates upper-intermediate competency with the ability to perform basic professional tasks, understand news broadcasts, and express opinions on social and abstract topics with relative ease.

The advanced levels—5 and 6—demonstrate near-native proficiency. Level 5 candidates can conduct research and perform professional tasks in specialized fields, though they may still struggle with unfamiliar subjects or complex formal situations. Level 6 represents the highest achievement, indicating the ability to comprehend and express oneself fluently in nearly all contexts, including academic research, business negotiations, and formal presentations, although not quite at the level of an educated native speaker.

The progression between levels correlates roughly with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Generally, TOPIK 1 approximates A1, TOPIK 2 corresponds to A2, TOPIK 3 aligns with B1, TOPIK 4 matches B2, while TOPIK 5 and 6 fall within the C1-C2 range. This international alignment helps learners contextualize their Korean proficiency within a broader multilingual framework.

TOPIK Exam Format and Sections

The examination format differs significantly between TOPIK I and TOPIK II, reflecting the varying complexity levels and skills being assessed. Understanding the precise structure of each test type is crucial for developing an effective preparation strategy and managing time efficiently during the actual examination.

TOPIK I consists of two sections administered over a total testing period of 100 minutes. The Listening section, which runs for 40 minutes, contains 30 questions testing candidates' ability to comprehend spoken Korean in various contexts. Questions progress from simple exchanges and short dialogues to longer conversations and announcements. The Reading section, lasting 60 minutes, comprises 40 questions that evaluate reading comprehension through passages of increasing length and complexity. Both sections employ exclusively multiple-choice format with four answer options per question, making this test relatively straightforward for test-takers familiar with standardized examination formats.

TOPIK II presents a significantly more challenging structure with three distinct sections totaling 180 minutes of testing time. The Listening section, identical in duration to TOPIK I at 60 minutes, includes 50 questions that assess comprehension of conversations, announcements, lectures, and broadcasts at intermediate to advanced levels. Questions require understanding of not only explicit information but also implied meanings, speakers' attitudes, and contextual nuances.

The Writing section, unique to TOPIK II, is arguably the most challenging component for many test-takers. This 50-minute section contains four questions with increasing difficulty levels. Questions 51 and 52 require completing sentences by filling in blanks, testing grammatical accuracy and vocabulary usage in context. Question 53 asks candidates to write a 200-300 character essay describing data presented in graphs or charts, evaluating the ability to objectively present information. Question 54, the most demanding task, requires composing a 600-700 character argumentative or expository essay on a given topic, assessing advanced writing skills including logical organization, coherent argumentation, and sophisticated language use.

The Reading section of TOPIK II, lasting 70 minutes, contains 50 questions covering diverse text types including advertisements, notices, explanatory texts, practical documents, essays, and literary excerpts. Questions test not only literal comprehension but also the ability to infer meanings, understand author intentions, identify text structures, and grasp cultural contexts embedded in written Korean. The complexity and length of passages increase progressively, with later questions requiring analysis of texts comparable to those found in Korean university textbooks or professional publications.

Scoring System and Passing Requirements

Understanding the TOPIK scoring system is essential for setting realistic goals and tracking progress throughout your preparation journey. Unlike many standardized tests that use scaled or percentile-based scoring, TOPIK employs a straightforward point-based system with clearly defined thresholds for each proficiency level.

For TOPIK I, each section—Listening and Reading—is scored out of 100 points, yielding a maximum possible score of 200 points. The level certification you receive depends entirely on your total score. To achieve Level 1 certification, candidates must score at least 80 points total, which translates to an average of 40 points per section. Level 2 certification requires a minimum of 140 points total, meaning candidates need to average 70 points per section. It's important to note that there is no section-by-section minimum requirement; the only threshold that matters is your combined total score across both sections.

TOPIK II utilizes a more complex scoring framework due to its three-section structure. The Listening and Reading sections are each worth 100 points, while the Writing section is also scored out of 100 points, creating a maximum possible score of 300 points. The level certifications for TOPIK II have progressively higher thresholds: Level 3 requires a minimum of 120 points (40% of total), Level 4 needs 150 points (50% of total), Level 5 demands 190 points (approximately 63% of total), and Level 6, the highest achievement, requires at least 230 points (approximately 77% of total).

The Writing section of TOPIK II deserves special attention as it is evaluated using detailed rubrics. Questions 51 and 52, the sentence completion tasks, are scored based on grammatical accuracy, appropriate vocabulary selection, and contextual fit. Question 53, the data description essay, is assessed on three criteria: content (accurate interpretation and presentation of data), organization (logical structure and coherence), and language use (vocabulary range, grammatical accuracy, and appropriateness). Question 54, the long essay, employs the most comprehensive rubric, evaluating content and task fulfillment, organization and coherence, language use and vocabulary range, and overall writing quality.

One critical aspect of TOPIK scoring that surprises many test-takers is the absence of section-by-section minimum scores for TOPIK II. Theoretically, a candidate could score very high in Listening and Reading while performing poorly in Writing and still achieve a respectable level certification based on total points. However, practically speaking, advancing to higher levels (5 and 6) typically requires balanced competency across all three sections, as the point thresholds are substantial.

Score reports are released approximately one month after the test date and are available for download from the official TOPIK website. The certificate displays your total score, individual section scores, and the achieved level. TOPIK certificates do not expire officially, though some institutions and employers may require certificates issued within the past two years to ensure current proficiency.

How to Register for TOPIK

The registration process for TOPIK varies depending on whether you're taking the exam in Korea or abroad, but both procedures are conducted primarily online through the official TOPIK website. Successfully navigating the registration system requires careful attention to dates, requirements, and procedural details to secure your preferred test location and avoid common pitfalls that could result in registration failure.

For test-takers in South Korea, registration opens approximately two months before the scheduled exam date and typically lasts for one week. The process begins at 10:00 AM on the first day and closes at 6:00 PM on the final day of the registration period. Due to high demand and limited seating capacity at testing centers, spots fill quickly, particularly in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu. The registration system operates on a regional rotation basis: the first day prioritizes certain provinces, with different regions gaining access on subsequent days to distribute demand more evenly.

To register for TOPIK in Korea, visit the official website (www.topik.go.kr) and create an account if you haven't already done so. You'll need to provide personal information including your full name (as it appears on your passport or identification card), date of birth, nationality, contact information, and a recent photograph meeting specific requirements (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background, taken within the last six months). After completing your profile, select your preferred test level (TOPIK I or TOPIK II), choose your desired test center from available locations, and proceed to payment. The examination fee in Korea is typically 45,000 KRW for TOPIK I and 55,000 KRW for TOPIK II, payable via credit card, bank transfer, or virtual account.

International registration procedures vary by country and are managed by local Korean Education Centers, Korean Cultural Centers, or designated testing organizations. Registration periods for overseas tests generally open three to four months before the exam date and last two to three weeks, offering a more generous window compared to domestic registration. International candidates should visit the TOPIK website and select their country from the dropdown menu to find specific registration instructions, designated testing centers, and examination fees in local currency.

International test-takers should note that fees vary considerably by country due to administrative costs and local economic factors, ranging from approximately 35 USD to 100 USD depending on location. Some countries require in-person registration or document submission to local Korean centers, while others offer fully online registration. It's essential to check country-specific requirements well in advance, as processes can differ significantly.

After successful registration, you'll receive a confirmation email containing your application number and registration details. Approximately one week before the test date, you can download your admission ticket from the TOPIK website, which you must print and bring to the testing center along with valid identification. Failure to bring both the admission ticket and proper ID will result in denied entry to the examination, with no refund provided.

TOPIK Exam Schedule and Important Dates

TOPIK is administered multiple times throughout the year, with different schedules for domestic (Korea-based) and international test centers. Planning your preparation timeline requires understanding when exams are offered and aligning your study schedule accordingly to maximize your readiness for your target test date.

In South Korea, TOPIK is typically offered six times per year, providing frequent opportunities for test-takers to attempt the examination or retake it to improve their scores. For 2026, the scheduled domestic TOPIK dates include administrations in January, April, May, July, October, and November. This frequent testing schedule allows Korean-based learners to space their attempts strategically, giving adequate time for preparation and improvement between tests without waiting excessive periods.

The 105th TOPIK, scheduled for April 11, 2026, has a domestic registration period from January 27 to February 2, 2026, with results expected to be announced by late May. The 106th TOPIK will be held on May 17, 2026, with registration opening March 10-16, 2026. The 107th TOPIK is scheduled for July 4-5, 2026 (weekend administration), with registration from May 12-18, 2026. Additional tests continue through the autumn and early winter months, maintaining the approximately bi-monthly schedule that has become standard in Korea.

International TOPIK schedules are less frequent, with most countries offering the examination two to four times annually, typically in April/May, July, and October/November to align with academic calendar needs. However, test dates and frequency vary significantly by country based on local demand, available facilities, and administrative capacity of organizing institutions. Major testing countries like the United States, China, Japan, and several Southeast Asian nations generally offer three to four test dates per year, while smaller markets may have only one or two annual administrations.

For international test-takers, checking the TOPIK website's country-specific pages is essential, as registration periods open much earlier than test dates—typically three to four months in advance—and require careful planning. For example, the 105th TOPIK scheduled for April 11, 2026, in many overseas locations opened registration in early January 2026, running through late January or early February depending on the country.

An important consideration for both domestic and international test-takers is result announcement timelines. Official score reports are typically released approximately five weeks after the test date. Results are first available for online viewing and download through the TOPIK website, with physical certificates mailed to domestic addresses or available for pickup at local Korean education centers for international candidates. This timeline is crucial for those needing TOPIK certification for university admissions, visa applications, or employment purposes, as you must account for this processing period when planning your applications.

The introduction of TOPIK-IBT (Internet-Based Test) has expanded testing availability in select locations, offering more flexible scheduling outside the traditional Paper-Based Test calendar. However, IBT availability remains limited compared to PBT, and test-takers should verify whether their location offers this option and whether their target institution or employer accepts IBT scores.

Creating an Effective Study Plan for Beginners

Developing a structured, realistic study plan is perhaps the single most important factor determining success on the TOPIK exam. Beginners preparing for TOPIK I need a fundamentally different approach than those targeting TOPIK II levels, and understanding how to allocate your study time efficiently can mean the difference between achieving your target level and falling short.

For absolute beginners targeting TOPIK Level 1 or 2, a three to six-month preparation timeline is generally recommended, assuming consistent daily study of 1-2 hours. The first phase of your study plan should focus exclusively on mastering Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Spending one to two weeks thoroughly learning to read and write all consonants, vowels, and basic syllable combinations provides the essential foundation for all subsequent learning. During this phase, practice writing each character repeatedly, use mnemonics to aid memorization, and begin reading simple words and phrases to reinforce recognition.

Once Hangul is mastered, the second phase emphasizes vocabulary acquisition and basic grammar patterns. For TOPIK Level 1, candidates should aim to learn approximately 800-1,000 vocabulary words covering fundamental topics including self-introduction, family, daily routines, hobbies, food, transportation, shopping, and weather. Level 2 requires expanding this vocabulary base to approximately 1,500-2,000 words, incorporating more diverse topics and situational contexts. Create a daily vocabulary study routine using spaced repetition systems (SRS) like Anki or Memrise, which optimize memorization through scientifically-proven review intervals.

Grammar study for beginners should focus on essential sentence patterns and particles that form the backbone of Korean communication. Key grammatical structures for TOPIK I include present, past, and future tenses; honorific speech levels (formal and informal); basic particles (subject, object, topic markers); location and direction expressions; connectors for listing and contrasting; and common sentence endings expressing intention, ability, and obligation. Rather than attempting to memorize grammar rules abstractly, practice by constructing numerous example sentences and engaging with authentic materials like simple dialogues and children's books.

The third phase of your study plan should integrate listening and reading practice using TOPIK-specific materials. Beginning approximately two months before your test date, incorporate daily listening exercises starting with slow, clearly pronounced audio and gradually progressing to natural-speed conversations. The official TOPIK website provides past examination papers with audio files, which are invaluable resources for familiarizing yourself with the exact question formats and difficulty levels you'll encounter. Aim to complete at least one full listening section per week, carefully reviewing mistakes and identifying patterns in questions you find challenging.

Reading practice should similarly progress from simple sentences to longer passages. Start with elementary Korean textbooks and graded readers designed for learners, then advance to actual TOPIK reading passages from previous tests. Develop the skill of reading strategically—scanning for main ideas, identifying key information, and understanding question types without needing to comprehend every single word. This pragmatic approach to reading is essential for managing the time constraints of the actual exam.

The final phase, covering the last two to four weeks before your test, should emphasize intensive practice with full-length mock tests under timed conditions. This simulation phase helps you develop time management skills, build stamina for the continuous testing period, and identify any remaining weak areas requiring focused review. Take at least three to five complete practice tests, meticulously analyzing your performance after each one and targeting your weakest question types for additional practice.

Proven Preparation Strategies and Resources

Beyond creating a study schedule, employing effective learning strategies and utilizing high-quality resources dramatically impacts your preparation efficiency and ultimate test performance. The most successful TOPIK candidates combine structured study with immersive exposure to Korean language and strategic use of both free and paid resources.

For vocabulary acquisition, the spaced repetition system (SRS) method has proven extraordinarily effective for TOPIK preparation. Applications like Anki allow you to create custom flashcard decks specifically aligned with TOPIK vocabulary lists, which are readily available online. Many learners also benefit from the TOPIK Essential Vocabulary books published by Darakwon and other Korean educational publishers, which organize words by frequency and TOPIK level. The key to vocabulary mastery isn't merely recognition but active recall and proper usage in context, so supplement flashcard study with sentence creation exercises and writing practice using new words.

Grammar mastery requires both systematic study and extensive practice. The Korean Grammar in Use series (Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced) by Darakwon provides comprehensive grammar explanations with exercises specifically designed for TOPIK preparation. Online resources like TOPIK Guide and 90 Day Korean offer free grammar lessons, practice questions, and study tips organized by TOPIK level. Additionally, the Talk To Me In Korean (TTMIK) website and podcast provide accessible, engaging grammar lessons with cultural context that helps cement understanding.

Listening comprehension improvement requires consistent exposure to spoken Korean across various contexts and speaking speeds. Beyond TOPIK practice materials, incorporate authentic Korean media into your daily routine. Korean dramas and variety shows on streaming platforms like Netflix, Viki, and YouTube provide entertaining listening practice—start with Korean subtitles to connect spoken and written language, then progress to no subtitles as your comprehension improves. Korean podcasts designed for learners, such as those from TTMIK, Korean Class 101, and Professor Yoon's Korean Language Class, offer graded listening content with transcripts and explanations.

For reading practice, graded readers published by companies like Hollym and Seoul National University Press provide level-appropriate texts with vocabulary glossaries. As you advance, transition to authentic materials including Korean news websites (in simplified Korean or with learner sections), webtoons with accessible language, and Korean language learning blogs. The key is reading volume—extensive reading of slightly easier material builds fluency more effectively than intensive analysis of difficult texts beyond your current level.

The official TOPIK website (www.topik.go.kr) remains the single most valuable free resource, providing complete past examination papers with answer keys and audio files dating back multiple years. Working through these authentic tests familiarizes you with exact question formats, difficulty progressions, and time management requirements. Supplement official materials with TOPIK-specific preparation books like New TOPIK Master, TOPIK in 30 Days, and TOPIK Essential Vocabulary and Grammar, which provide structured lessons, practice questions, and test-taking strategies.

Many successful test-takers credit their achievement to language exchange partners or tutors who provide personalized feedback and conversation practice. Platforms like HelloTalk, Tandem, and ConversationExchange connect Korean learners with native speakers for mutual language practice. For more structured instruction, online tutoring services including iTalki, Preply, and Verbling offer affordable one-on-one lessons with professional Korean teachers who can tailor instruction to your TOPIK preparation needs, particularly valuable for writing practice and personalized weakness analysis.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding the most frequent errors TOPIK test-takers make allows you to proactively avoid these pitfalls and optimize your preparation strategy. Learning from others' mistakes is significantly more efficient than discovering these issues through personal experience on test day or after receiving disappointing scores.

Perhaps the most common mistake beginners make is choosing the wrong test level. Some learners, motivated by ambition or external pressure, register for TOPIK II hoping to achieve Level 3 or 4 when their actual proficiency remains at beginner level. This approach invariably results in low scores and wasted registration fees. TOPIK II includes no questions appropriate for beginners—even the easiest listening and reading items assume solid intermediate foundations. Conversely, some learners with intermediate abilities register for TOPIK I thinking it will be easier, only to discover that the maximum achievable level (Level 2) may be insufficient for their needs. Take honest self-assessment tests before registering to ensure you select the appropriate level matching your current abilities and target certification.

Another prevalent error is neglecting time management during preparation and on test day. Many test-takers underestimate how quickly testing time passes, particularly in the Reading sections where lengthy passages must be processed under pressure. During preparation, always practice with strict time limits rather than allowing yourself unlimited time to complete practice questions. On test day, develop pacing strategies—for example, in TOPIK I Reading, you have 60 minutes for 40 questions, allowing approximately 90 seconds per question. Budget more time for longer, more complex passages and move quickly through easier vocabulary and grammar questions to bank time for difficult items.

Vocabulary study mistakes undermine many test-takers' preparation efforts. Simply memorizing Korean-English word pairs without understanding usage contexts or studying words in isolation without example sentences creates fragile knowledge that crumbles under test conditions. Instead, study vocabulary within sentences, learn words in thematic groups (family-related words together, food vocabulary as a set), and practice active production by writing sentences using new words. Additionally, many learners focus excessively on advanced vocabulary while neglecting high-frequency basic words and particles that appear repeatedly on TOPIK—ensure your foundation is solid before pursuing sophisticated vocabulary.

Grammar study mistakes mirror vocabulary errors: rote memorization of grammar rules without practical application and understanding. Korean grammar often functions quite differently from English or other languages, and abstract rule memorization doesn't translate to comprehension or production ability. Always study grammar through abundant example sentences, practice constructing your own sentences using new patterns, and pay special attention to subtle meaning differences between similar grammatical structures. For TOPIK specifically, certain grammar patterns appear frequently in test questions—prioritize these high-yield structures rather than obscure patterns rarely used in actual communication.

Many test-takers inadequately prepare for the specific format and question types appearing on TOPIK. The test employs distinctive question styles—particularly in Listening, where questions about speaker intentions, appropriate responses, and conversational implications require strategic approaches. Without familiarizing yourself with these formats through practice with official past papers, you'll waste precious time on test day deciphering what questions are asking. Complete at least five full practice tests under timed conditions before your actual exam to eliminate format-related surprises.

Physical and psychological preparation mistakes also compromise performance. Test day is physically and mentally demanding—TOPIK I requires 100 minutes of sustained concentration, while TOPIK II demands 180 minutes. Test-takers who stay up late studying the night before, skip breakfast, or arrive at the testing center stressed and rushed often perform below their actual ability level. In the week before your exam, prioritize sleep, maintain good nutrition and hydration, and engage in lighter review rather than intensive cramming. Visit your testing center location beforehand if possible to eliminate logistical uncertainties on test day.

Test Day Tips and What to Expect

Understanding exactly what to expect on test day and how to optimize your performance during the examination can make a significant difference in your final score. Even well-prepared candidates sometimes underperform due to preventable logistical issues or poor test-taking strategies during the actual examination.

Begin your test day preparations the night before by gathering all required materials: your printed admission ticket, valid identification (passport or national ID card with photo), several sharpened pencils (mechanical or wooden), good quality erasers, and your confirmation number. Pack these items in a clear bag if your testing center has security restrictions. Do not bring electronic devices, smart watches, or any unauthorized materials, as these will result in disqualification. Set multiple alarms to ensure you wake with plenty of time for a relaxed morning routine without rushing.

Plan to arrive at your testing center at least 30-40 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals are typically not permitted to enter once the test has begun, resulting in forfeiture of your registration fee without refund. Upon arrival, you'll proceed through check-in where staff will verify your identity by comparing your identification to your admission ticket and photograph. You'll be assigned a specific seat—note that you cannot choose your location, and requests for seat changes are rarely accommodated except in cases of technical problems or disruptive neighbors.

Testing rooms are typically arranged with considerable space between seats to prevent any possibility of cheating. Expect the environment to be quite formal with strict proctoring. Proctors will provide detailed instructions in Korean and sometimes English before each section begins. Listen carefully to all instructions, as they'll inform you when you can open your test booklet, how to properly mark answers on the answer sheet, and when to stop writing. Failure to follow instructions, including writing outside designated time periods, can result in disqualification.

The answer sheet requires careful attention—all answers must be marked using your pencil to fill in the corresponding circle completely. Partial marks, checks, or marks outside the circle may not be read correctly by scoring machines. If you need to change an answer, erase completely before marking the new choice. Stray marks on your answer sheet can cause scoring errors, so keep your sheet clean and handle it carefully throughout the examination.

Strategic question-answering approaches can maximize your score. For multiple-choice questions, if you're uncertain of the correct answer, use elimination strategies to remove obviously incorrect options before guessing among remaining choices. There is no penalty for incorrect answers on TOPIK, so never leave questions blank—even random guessing gives you a 25% chance of earning points. For questions you find very difficult, mark your best guess, circle the question number in your test booklet, and return to review it if time permits after completing easier questions.

During Listening sections, audio plays continuously without repetition or pauses beyond what's built into the recording. You cannot ask for audio to be replayed. Read the question and answer choices during the pause before each listening passage begins, allowing you to listen with focused attention on the specific information needed. As soon as you confidently know the answer, mark it immediately and move to previewing the next question—don't wait until the audio finishes. This strategy maximizes your preparation time for subsequent questions.

For Reading sections, manage your time carefully by moving quickly through easier questions to bank time for longer, more difficult passages appearing later. If a question is consuming excessive time without progress toward the answer, mark your best guess and move forward—you can return if time permits. Reading strategically rather than trying to understand every word is essential: scan for main ideas, identify key information needed to answer questions, and don't get bogged down by unknown vocabulary that doesn't affect comprehension of the passage's central meaning.

After the examination concludes, all materials must be returned to proctors—you cannot keep your test booklet or notes. Results will be available online approximately five weeks after your test date, accessible through the TOPIK website using your application number and personal information. Certificates can be downloaded and printed, with official sealed certificates mailed or available for pickup depending on your testing location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I study for TOPIK if I'm a complete beginner?

Complete beginners should plan for 3-6 months of consistent daily study (1-2 hours per day) to prepare for TOPIK I Level 2. This timeline assumes you're starting from learning Hangul and building to approximately 1,500-2,000 vocabulary words with basic grammar patterns. Individual learning speed varies based on factors including previous language learning experience, study intensity, and language aptitude. If you have prior experience learning languages with different writing systems or grammatical structures, you may progress more quickly. Consider taking a diagnostic practice test after 2-3 months to assess your progress and adjust your timeline accordingly.

Can I take both TOPIK I and TOPIK II on the same test day?

No, you must choose either TOPIK I or TOPIK II during registration—you cannot take both examinations on the same day. The tests are administered during the same time slots, making it physically impossible to attempt both. Choose your test level based on honest self-assessment of your current Korean proficiency and your target level certification needs. If you're uncertain which level to attempt, take free online placement tests or complete past TOPIK papers from both levels to determine which is more appropriate for your abilities.

What is a good TOPIK score for university admission in Korea?

Most Korean universities require TOPIK Level 3 (minimum 120 points) for undergraduate admission and Level 4 (minimum 150 points) for graduate programs, though requirements vary significantly by institution and program. Top-tier universities and competitive programs often require Level 5 or even Level 6 for full admission, particularly for graduate studies in humanities and social sciences. Some universities offer conditional admission with lower TOPIK levels (3 or 4) requiring students to improve their Korean through language programs before beginning full coursework. Always check specific requirements for your target institutions and programs, as policies differ considerably.

How much does TOPIK registration cost?

Registration fees vary by location. In South Korea, TOPIK I costs 45,000 KRW (approximately 35 USD) and TOPIK II costs 55,000 KRW (approximately 42 USD) as of 2026. International fees differ by country due to administrative costs and currency exchange rates, typically ranging from 35-100 USD depending on location. Some countries with higher administrative overhead charge premium fees. Check the official TOPIK website's country-specific pages for exact pricing in your testing location.

Is TOPIK harder than other language proficiency tests like JLPT or HSK?

Direct difficulty comparisons are challenging as tests measure different languages with distinct characteristics. However, many polyglots who've taken multiple standardized language tests report that TOPIK's difficulty stems from several factors: Korean's complex honorific system and grammar patterns quite different from most other languages, the integration of Chinese characters (Hanja) in some vocabulary and reading passages, and particularly for TOPIK II, the writing section which requires productive language skills rather than just recognition. The jump in difficulty from TOPIK I to TOPIK II is notably steep, with Level 3-4 requiring substantially more preparation than many learners anticipate.

Can I use a dictionary during the TOPIK exam?

No, dictionaries of any kind—paper, electronic, or digital—are strictly prohibited during the TOPIK examination. You also cannot use translation apps, smartphones, smart watches, or any electronic devices during testing. The exam is designed to assess your internalized Korean language knowledge and skills, not your ability to look up information. Attempting to use unauthorized materials will result in immediate disqualification and potentially a ban from future examinations. Focus your preparation on building a solid vocabulary foundation and comprehension skills that don't require external references.

What happens if I don't reach my target level—can I retake TOPIK?

Yes, you can retake TOPIK as many times as you wish without restrictions or penalties. Many successful test-takers attempt the exam multiple times before achieving their target level. TOPIK is offered multiple times per year in Korea (typically 6 times) and 2-4 times annually in international locations, providing regular opportunities to retake the test. Between attempts, focus your preparation on analyzing what went wrong in your previous attempt—review your score report to identify weak sections, target specific question types you struggled with, and address gaps in vocabulary or grammar knowledge.

How long is my TOPIK certificate valid?

TOPIK certificates do not have an official expiration date according to NIIED policy. However, many universities, employers, and government agencies require TOPIK scores obtained within the past 2 years to ensure your Korean proficiency remains current. Some institutions may accept certificates older than 2 years for certain purposes while requiring recent scores for others. Always verify specific validity requirements with the institution or organization requesting your TOPIK certification. If your certificate is older than 2 years and may not be accepted, plan to retake the exam to obtain a current score.

Are there any accommodations available for test-takers with disabilities?

Yes, TOPIK provides accommodations for test-takers with documented disabilities including visual impairments, hearing impairments, physical disabilities, and learning disabilities. Available accommodations may include extended testing time, separate testing rooms, enlarged test booklets, Braille materials, sign language interpreters, and permission to use assistive devices. To request accommodations, you must submit documentation of your disability during the registration period according to specific procedures outlined on the TOPIK website. Requirements and available accommodations vary by testing location, so contact your local testing center well in advance of registration to understand the process and ensure your needs can be met.

What should I do if I lose my TOPIK certificate?

If you lose your TOPIK certificate, you can request a replacement certificate (재발급) through the official TOPIK website. Log into your account, navigate to the certificate reissue section, and complete the online application form. There is typically a small fee for replacement certificates (around 5,000-10,000 KRW for domestic requests). For international test-takers, contact the Korean Education Center or testing organization in your country for specific procedures and fees. Processing time for replacement certificates is usually 1-2 weeks for domestic requests and may take longer for international requests. Keep your certificate in a safe place and consider making digital copies as backup documentation.