Mastering the TOPIK Exam: A Complete 2026 Beginner’s Guide

Everything you need to know about levels, structure, and registration.

TOPIK exam beginner guide — desk, headphones, simple study checklist for Korean test

Are you planning to study, work, or live in South Korea? If so, the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is likely on your radar. As the official certification recognized by the Korean government, a high TOPIK score is essential for visas and university admissions. In 2026, the exam has evolved with new digital formats. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown to help you navigate your first TOPIK journey.

1. Understanding TOPIK Levels: Which Exam Should You Take?

The TOPIK exam is divided into two main categories: TOPIK I (Beginner) and TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced). Your total score determines your specific level within these categories.

TOPIK I (Level 1–2): Focuses on survival Korean. Level 1 requires basic greetings, while Level 2 covers daily life topics. Total possible score: 200.
TOPIK II (Level 3–6): Focuses on social and academic Korean. Level 3-4 is typically required for degree programs. Total possible score: 300.
2026 Update: The TOPIK Speaking Test is increasingly required for professional certifications.

2. Test Structure and the Transition to IBT in 2026

The biggest change in 2026 is the widespread adoption of IBT (Internet-Based Testing). Most urban centers in Korea have moved to digital terminals, making the results processing faster. TOPIK I consists of Listening (40 mins) and Reading (60 mins). TOPIK II adds a rigorous Writing section, which remains the most challenging part for global test-takers.

3. Step-by-Step Registration: Korea vs. International

Registration periods are extremely short and seats fill up within minutes. You must be prepared to act quickly when the window opens.

In Korea: Register at topik.go.kr. Have your JPG photo and ARC number ready.
Outside Korea: Registration is managed by local Korean Education Centers or Embassies. Check their sites 3 months in advance.
Payment: Fees are approximately ₩40,000 for TOPIK I and ₩55,000 for TOPIK II in Korea.

4. The 90-Day TOPIK Study Plan for Success

Consistency is key. A 90-day window allows your brain to transition from "translating" to "thinking" in Korean. Here is our 2026 skeleton plan:

Days 1–30 (Foundation): Focus on the 2,000 most common TOPIK words using SRS apps like Anki.
Days 31–60 (Patterns): Study past exam papers to identify recurring grammar structures.
Days 61–90 (Mock Exams): Take full-length exams under timed conditions every weekend.

5. Final Checklist and Moving to the Next Strategy

Before you take the exam, ensure you have used official resources from NIIED. Once you understand the basics of registration and levels, you must tackle the hardest part of the exam: The Writing Section. In the next part of this series, we will break down exactly how to score high on TOPIK II essays.

Teacher Hoon's Native Advice

Many students ask, "Should I take TOPIK I or II?" If you can't yet write a short paragraph without a dictionary, start with TOPIK I. Achieving a 'Level 2' is a massive boost to your confidence and provides a solid base for the intermediate jump!

Need Personalized TOPIK Coaching?

I help students identify weak spots and provide professional feedback on Korean writing. Let's reach Level 6 together! Book your session on italki today.

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