TOPIK Explained: Levels, Scores and Why It Matters
Also in: Tiếng Việt · Bahasa Indonesia · Bahasa Melayu · اردو · বাংলা
TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is the official Korean language test. Your TOPIK level affects your admission, scholarships, part-time work hours and future visas.
Levels and scores
| Test | Level | Score (paper test) |
|---|---|---|
| TOPIK I (out of 200) | Level 1 | 80–139 |
| Level 2 | 140–200 | |
| TOPIK II (out of 300) | Level 3 | 120–149 |
| Level 4 | 150–189 | |
| Level 5 | 190–229 | |
| Level 6 | 230–300 |
TOPIK I has Listening and Reading. TOPIK II adds Writing. Results are valid for 2 years.
Where and when
- In Korea: the paper test runs several times a year. Register on topik.go.kr. The registration window is short, so watch the dates.
- Outside Korea: TOPIK is held in many countries, often through the Korean embassy, a King Sejong Institute or a local partner. In some countries it runs only once or twice a year (for example, in Bangladesh the Korean Embassy in Dhaka usually holds it once a year), so check your local dates early.
- An internet-based test (IBT) also exists in some locations.
Why your level matters
- Part-time work: D-2 students need TOPIK 3 or 4 to work 25 hours a week. Without it, the limit is 10 hours. See the rules.
- Scholarships: many universities cut tuition for TOPIK 3 and above.
- Graduation and jobs: Korean employers and many work visas value TOPIK 4 or higher.
How to prepare
- Use past papers from the official TOPIK website.
- Study a little every day instead of cramming.
- Join your university's Korean language program or a free KIIP class.
