TOPIK at a Glance
Everything you need to prepare for TOPIK on one page — exam structure, level criteria, and the full 2026 exam schedule.
What Is TOPIK?
TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is the official Korean language proficiency test for non-native speakers of Korean. It assesses listening, reading, and writing skills across six proficiency levels (Levels 1–6). TOPIK scores are widely recognized by Korean universities, employers, and government institutions.
The exam is offered in both paper-based (PBT) and internet-based (IBT) formats, and speaking ability can be assessed through a separate Speaking Test.
TOPIK I
Beginner · Levels 1–2
Assesses basic Korean through listening and reading.
TOPIK II
Intermediate–Advanced · Levels 3–6
Assesses intermediate to advanced Korean through listening, writing, and reading.
Speaking Test
Separate exam
Assesses speaking ability through a dedicated test.
What Does the Exam Look Like? (Paper-based test, PBT)
| Exam | Sections | Questions | Total Score | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOPIK I | Listening 30 · Reading 40 | 70 questions | 200 points | 100 min |
| TOPIK II | Listening 50 · Writing 4 · Reading 50 | 104 questions | 300 points | 180 min |
What Score Earns Which Level?
Your level is determined by your total score. Note that PBT and IBT use different scales.
TOPIK I (Beginner)
out of 200 points
| Level | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | 80~139 pts |
| Level 2 | 140~200 pts |
TOPIK II (Intermediate–Advanced)
out of 300 points
| Level | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Level 3 | 120~149 pts |
| Level 4 | 150~189 pts |
| Level 5 | 190~229 pts |
| Level 6 | 230~300 pts |
* PBT and IBT use different maximum scores and cut-off scores. Check the table that matches your exam format.
How TOPIK Scores Are Used
University Admission & Graduation
Widely required for admission to and graduation from Korean universities and graduate schools.
Employment
An officially recognized credential of Korean proficiency for employers in and outside Korea.
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
Used in scholarship selection and for bonus points, including the GKS program.
Visa & Permanent Residency
Used for changing visa status and applying for permanent residency in Korea.
Score validity: 2 years from the date results are announced
Upcoming TOPIK Exams
2026 exam sessions you can still take, as of today.
- Registration periods shown are for Korea. Overseas registration dates and procedures vary by local host institution (Korean embassies and Korea Education Centers).
- Schedules are subject to change. Always confirm the final schedule at topik.go.kr.
- The 2027 exam schedule will be updated here as soon as it is announced.
Source & official schedule: topik.go.kr
Start Your TOPIK Journey with LoroTOPIK Today
Explanations in 18 languages and AI-personalized learning — understand in your own language, all the way to passing.