What is TOPIK?
TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean, 한국어능력시험) is the Korean proficiency test for non-native speakers run by Korea's National Institute for International Education (NIIED). Vietnam has the most test takers outside Korea: about 85,900 applications in 2025, over 15% of the world total.
TOPIK I and TOPIK II
TOPIK has two separate tests. TOPIK I is for beginners and gives levels 1–2; TOPIK II is for intermediate to advanced learners and gives levels 3–6. Levels come from the total score; there is no minimum per section.
- TOPIK I: Listening 30 + Reading 40 questions, 100 minutes, 200 points. Level 1 from 80, level 2 from 140.
- TOPIK II: Listening 50 + Writing 4 (period 1, 110 minutes) and Reading 50 (period 2, 70 minutes), 300 points. Level 3 from 120, 4 from 150, 5 from 190, 6 from 230.
Paper (PBT) and computer (IBT)
Since 2025 TOPIK IBT has its own structure and scale: TOPIK I IBT 400 points, TOPIK II IBT 600 points, with drag-and-drop items and typed writing. TOPIKPASS mock tests follow the PBT structure (questions, timing, scoring) on an IBT-style screen.
What is a TOPIK certificate for?
TOPIK results are valid for 2 years.
- Studying in Korea: many universities ask for TOPIK 3–4.
- Jobs with Korean companies, often TOPIK 4 or higher.
- Visas: points for some visa types (E-7, F-2…).
- In Vietnam, from 2026, TOPIK level 3+ exempts the foreign-language exam for the high-school graduation recognition.
How to prepare
- Take a timed mock test to find your level and weak question types.
- Practise by question type (유형): each question number has its own technique.
- TOPIK II: start writing 53–54 early, it carries many points.
- Learn vocabulary by level every day and retake a mock test every 2–3 weeks.
FAQ
How many TOPIK levels are there?
Six: TOPIK I gives levels 1–2, TOPIK II gives levels 3–6, from the total score of the test you take.
How long is a TOPIK result valid?
Two years from the result date.