TOPIK Exam Guide for Korean University Admission

TOPIK is Korea’s official Korean-language proficiency test. Universities and immigration use it to confirm you can follow lectures and campus life. There are two tracks:

• TOPIK I — Levels 1–2 (beginner)
• TOPIK II — Levels 3–6 (intermediate to advanced)

Degree programs almost always want TOPIK II. Language institutes (D-4) usually do not require TOPIK for beginner enrollment.

Always confirm the current requirement on the university’s international admissions page — thresholds change by intake.

1. Shortlist programs and note whether they need TOPIK or English scores.
2. Register for TOPIK early — seats in some countries fill quickly.
3. Keep a buffer: score reports can take weeks after the test date.
4. If your score is short, consider a language-institute term first, then apply for D-2 / status change later.

See our university admission guide and D-2 vs D-4 visa guide for the full pathway.