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TOPIK Exam: What It Is and How to Apply
What Is TOPIK Exam and How to Apply
The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is an official language exam designed for non-native speakers to measure their Korean proficiency in reading, writing, and listening. It’s used widely by:
- Students applying to Korean universities
- Workers seeking employment in Korea
- Applicants for Korean permanent residency
- People interested in evaluating their Korean language skills
TOPIK is widely accepted by organizations and institutions both in Korea and abroad as a standard measure of Korean language proficiency It serves as a standardized measure for Korean proficiency, much like TOEFL for English or JLPT for Japanese.
TOPIK Test Levels
The TOPIK exam is divided into two levels, TOPIK I and TOPIK II, with six proficiency levels (Levels 1–6).
When is the TOPIK Season
TOPIK exams are conducted multiple times a year in both South Korea and internationally. These dates may vary slightly depending on the year and the country in which the exam is being held.
| Region | Tentative Dates | How Many Times per Year |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | January, April, May, July, October, November | 6 times per year |
| International | Varies by region | 2-5 times per year |
How to Apply for TOPIK Exam
TOPIK applications can be made online or in person through designated Korean education centers or embassies. Below are the steps and details for applying in Malaysia, Singapore, and the U.S.:
| Country | Application Process |
|---|---|
| Malaysia | Applications open at UniKL. |
| Singapore | Register through the Korean International School or the Embassy of Korea in Singapore. |
| United States | Applications are accepted via Korean Cultural Centers located in cities such as Washington D.C. and Los Angeles. |
Steps to Apply for TOPIK (for Malaysians)
(For other countries, it varies by region, kindly check from respective country organizers)
- Download the application form (can be download from: link here)
- Fill the form and insert your photo file into 2 photo boxes in the form.
- Fee: bank into CIMB Account 8002236325, SEUNG YOAN ROU.
- Send 3 files to topikinmalaysia@gmail.com
- Application form: must be in word file format (*.doc file) only. DO NOT CHANGE any format of the form, font, font size, etc.
- Photo: jpg file, size must be lower than 200K. Please refer to sample file, must be recent photo and NOT casual photo. This photo will be in your certificate.
- Receipt: bank-in slip (scan or photo)
- Please write your Name/Birthday/Address etc. in detail and correctly. This is very important for your certificate and to check/print your certificate (organizers does not have any responsibility about applicant’s mistake or wrong information.)
- Your confirmation will be sent through e-mail to you within 96 hours (4 days).
- Important: The Application form (word file) 2) Photo file (jpg file) 3) Bank slip (any file) must be attached together during registration.
If you have a question send email to topikinmalaysia@gmail.com (Before send email, please read all the guidelines thoroughly, organizers only reply to the question that is not in the guidelines)
TOPIK I and TOPIK II Test Structure
|
Section
|
TOPIK I (Levels 1-2) | TOPIK II (Levels 3-6) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | 40 questions (60 min) | 50 questions (70 min) |
| Listening | 30 questions (40 min) | 50 questions (60 min) |
| Writing | NA | 4 questions (50 min) |
| Total Duration | 100 minutes | 180 minutes |
| Total Marks | 200 points | 300 points |
What is the validity period of the TOPIK certificate?
Each TOPIK certificate is valid for two years.
Final Thoughts
The TOPIK exam is an excellent way to measure your Korean proficiency and is a must for anyone looking to study, work, or live in Korea. Whether you’re just beginning or aiming for fluency, the exam provides a clear path for learners at all levels. With the right preparation through self-study, past papers, and mock tests, you can achieve your desired score and unlock new opportunities in Korea.
Thinking about taking TOPIK Exam soon?
We’ve got you covered with our Korean Intensive Class and TOPIK Preparation courses!
Our Korean Intensive Class focuses on building a solid foundation and mastering Korean in a short amount of time. If you’re already learning Korean and want to dive deeper into the TOPIK test format, our TOPIK Preparation courses are perfect for you!
Intensive Course TOPIK Preparation Course