How the TOPIK exam works, and how to prepare

The two tests, their sections and timing, the score each level needs, and a realistic way to get ready.

Two tests, six levels

TOPIK I

Levels 1–2 · scored out of 200

TOPIK II

Levels 3–6 · scored out of 300

PaperLevelMinimum score
TOPIK I (out of 200)Level 180
TOPIK I (out of 200)Level 2140
TOPIK II (out of 300)Level 3120
TOPIK II (out of 300)Level 4150
TOPIK II (out of 300)Level 5190
TOPIK II (out of 300)Level 6230

Your level is decided by your total score, not by any single section. Results are valid for two years. The level a university, employer or visa asks for depends on them — check their own requirement.

Exam dates and registration

TOPIK is held several times a year, but which sessions run, where, and when registration opens differs by country. We don't list dates here because they change — the official site always has the current ones: topik.go.kr.

How to prepare

Take a past paper first

Sit one full past paper under real timing. It shows which section is costing you points.

Build the vocabulary the exam uses

Most lost points in reading and listening are unknown words, not unknown grammar.

Practise writing 51–54 on its own

Each question has a set format. Short answers, a graph description and a 600–700 character essay all need separate practice.

Finish with timed full papers

In the last weeks, full papers under exam timing, then review every wrong answer.

Past papers are published free on the official TOPIK site.

The Klovers TOPIK track

Exam technique, for a TOPIK date you have already put in the calendar. Taught live by Reham, in English or Arabic.

Classes cover the syllabus. Reaching exam standard needs study between them.

Book a free class · Find your level first · See the TOPIK track · Read the full TOPIK guide