If you're planning to take the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) in 2026, the first thing you need to know is exactly when and where you can take it — and when you need to register by. Missing a registration deadline means waiting months for the next opportunity.
This guide covers all TOPIK test dates for 2026, registration windows, fees, and the practical details you need to plan your preparation timeline.
TOPIK 2026 Test Schedule
TOPIK is administered six times per year in South Korea and typically two to four times internationally, depending on your country. The 2026 schedule follows the established pattern from previous years.
Tests in South Korea
91st TOPIK — January 2026: Test date: January 12, 2026. Registration period: November 2025. Results released: approximately February 2026.
92nd TOPIK — April 2026: Test date: April 13, 2026. Registration period: February 2026. Results released: approximately May 2026.
93rd TOPIK — May 2026: Test date: May 18, 2026. Registration period: March 2026. Results released: approximately June 2026.
94th TOPIK — July 2026: Test date: July 13, 2026. Registration period: May 2026. Results released: approximately August 2026.
95th TOPIK — October 2026: Test date: October 18, 2026. Registration period: August 2026. Results released: approximately November 2026.
96th TOPIK — November 2026: Test date: November 15, 2026. Registration period: September 2026. Results released: approximately December 2026.
Tests Outside South Korea
International TOPIK is typically offered in April and October, though some countries offer additional sittings. The exact dates and available test centers vary by country. Registration for international tests usually opens about two months before the test date.
Countries with the most TOPIK test centers include: Japan (multiple cities), China (extensive coverage), Vietnam, Thailand, the United States (major cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago), Germany, France, the United Kingdom, India, and Australia.
How to Register for TOPIK
Registration for Tests in South Korea
All registration for TOPIK in South Korea happens online through the official TOPIK website (www.topik.go.kr). The process works like this: create an account on the TOPIK website, log in during the registration period, select your test level (TOPIK I or TOPIK II), choose your preferred test center and city, upload a passport-style photo, and pay the registration fee.
Registration opens at 9:00 AM Korean Standard Time on the opening date and closes when the deadline passes or when all seats are filled — whichever comes first. Popular test centers in Seoul fill up within hours, so register on the first day if possible.
Registration for International Tests
International TOPIK registration is handled by the Korean embassy or cultural center in your country, not through the Korean TOPIK website. The process varies by country but generally involves: checking the Korean embassy website for your country's specific dates and instructions, registering through the designated local platform, paying the local registration fee (which may differ from the Korean fee), and receiving your test center assignment.
Contact your local Korean embassy or Korean Cultural Center well in advance to confirm exact dates and procedures for your country.
TOPIK Fees
In South Korea, the TOPIK fee is 40,000 KRW (approximately $30 USD) for either TOPIK I or TOPIK II. This makes it one of the cheapest language proficiency exams available.
International fees vary by country. Typical costs range from $40-80 USD, though some locations may be higher. The fee usually covers the test and one official score report, with additional copies available for a small fee.
TOPIK I vs TOPIK II: Which to Take?
TOPIK I tests levels 1-2 (beginner). It consists of Listening (40 minutes, 30 questions) and Reading (60 minutes, 40 questions). There is no writing section. Score 80+ for Level 1, 140+ for Level 2 (out of 200).
TOPIK II tests levels 3-6 (intermediate to advanced). It consists of Listening (60 minutes, 50 questions), Writing (50 minutes, 4 questions including essays), and Reading (70 minutes, 50 questions). Score thresholds: Level 3 (120+), Level 4 (150+), Level 5 (190+), Level 6 (230+) out of 300.
You cannot choose your level within each test — your score determines which level you achieve. If you're aiming for Level 3 or above, you must take TOPIK II regardless. There's no downside to taking TOPIK II even if you only achieve Level 3, so if you're between TOPIK I and II, choose TOPIK II.
Score Validity
TOPIK scores are valid for two years from the results announcement date. After two years, the score expires and you'd need to retake the test. This is important for university admissions and visa applications — make sure your score will still be valid when you need to submit it.
TOPIK for University Admissions in Korea
Most Korean universities require TOPIK Level 3 or 4 for undergraduate admissions in Korean-taught programs. Graduate programs typically require Level 4 or 5. Some top universities like Seoul National University, Yonsei, and Korea University require Level 5 for competitive programs.
If you're applying for the Korean government scholarship (KGSP/GKS), TOPIK Level 5 or 6 gives you additional points in the selection process. Even for English-taught programs, having a TOPIK score demonstrates commitment to studying in Korea and can strengthen your application.
Timeline tip: If you're applying for the March semester, aim for the October TOPIK — this gives you results by November, well before most December-January application deadlines. For September intake, the April TOPIK provides results by May, giving you time for summer applications.
TOPIK for Korean Immigration and Visas
The TOPIK score is used for several Korean visa categories. The F-2 (resident) visa points system awards points for TOPIK scores: Level 5 earns 20 points, Level 4 earns 15 points. The F-5 (permanent residence) visa has Korean language requirements where TOPIK can satisfy the language component.
For the E-7 (professional) visa, while TOPIK isn't always mandatory, having a Level 4+ score significantly strengthens your application and may be required by certain employers.
Preparation Timeline Recommendations
For TOPIK I (Levels 1-2): Start 3-4 months before the test. Focus on basic vocabulary (1,500-2,000 words), fundamental grammar patterns, and listening comprehension. Genki-equivalent Korean textbooks like Seoul National University's Korean series or Yonsei Korean cover this material.
For TOPIK II Level 3-4: Start 6-8 months before the test. You need intermediate vocabulary (3,000-5,000 words), complex grammar, reading speed, and writing skills. Practice with past TOPIK papers extensively.
For TOPIK II Level 5-6: Start 12+ months before the test or have significant immersion experience. You need advanced vocabulary (10,000+ words), near-native reading speed, and strong essay writing skills.
Where to Find Past Papers and Practice Materials
Official past TOPIK papers are available for free on the TOPIK website. This is the single best preparation resource available. Download every available past paper and work through them systematically.
Additional resources: TOPIK Guide (topikguide.com) for organized study materials, the Korean Language Education Center's online resources, and TOPIK preparation books available on Amazon and Korean bookstores like Kyobo.
For a complete breakdown of what each TOPIK level means and requires, see our TOPIK Levels Explained guide.