Introduction: Two Tests, One Name, Very Different Purposes
Almost every Nepali student or worker heading to Korea hears the same advice: “get your TOPIK.” The advice is incomplete, because TOPIK is not one exam. It is two, TOPIK I and TOPIK II, and they test different levels of Korean, run on different formats and unlock different things. Students regularly register for the wrong one. Some sit TOPIK I and then discover their university asked for Level 3. Others sit TOPIK II too early, score below the minimum and receive no level at all.
This guide explains the difference between TOPIK I and TOPIK II, how each is structured and scored, and what each opens up for study, work and residency. It then gives a framework for choosing, with the practical details of taking the exam in Nepal. Figures for fees, dates and cut-offs come from the exam’s administrator and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal, and the text points out where you should check the latest notice.
Quick Answer
- TOPIK I covers Levels 1 and 2 (beginner). It has listening and reading only, is scored out of 200, and takes about 100 minutes.
- TOPIK II covers Levels 3 to 6 (intermediate to advanced). It has listening, writing and reading, is scored out of 300, and takes about 180 minutes.
- You register for one category, not for a level. Your score decides which level you receive.
- If you need Korean-taught degree admission, a part-time work permit or extra points in work and residency systems, you almost certainly need TOPIK II.
- If you are a beginner looking for a first milestone, or you cannot yet handle intermediate Korean, TOPIK I is the realistic choice.
| Your Situation | Usually the Right Test |
|---|---|
| Complete beginner, first certificate | TOPIK I |
| Applying to a Korean-taught degree program | TOPIK II |
| Seeking a part-time work permit as a degree student | TOPIK II (Level 3 or 4, depending on year of study) |
| Aiming for a scholarship language bonus | TOPIK II (Level 5 or 6) |
| Preparing for factory, farm or service work through EPS | Neither: EPS-TOPIK is a separate exam |
Toddle’s overview of test preparation options shows where TOPIK sits next to its other exam courses.
What Is TOPIK?
TOPIK stands for Test of Proficiency in Korean. It is run by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), under Korea’s Ministry of Education, and it is the most widely recognized measure of Korean ability for non-native speakers. The official site is topik.go.kr.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Categories | TOPIK I and TOPIK II |
| Levels | Six in total: Levels 1–2 under TOPIK I, Levels 3–6 under TOPIK II |
| Format | Paper-based (PBT) and internet-based (IBT) versions exist; most question types are multiple choice |
| Separate test | TOPIK Speaking is a different exam, not part of TOPIK I or II |
| Validity | Two years from the date results are announced |
| Administered in Nepal by | The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal |
TOPIK is also different from EPS-TOPIK, the worker-selection exam under Korea’s Employment Permit System. They are not interchangeable, and the comparison appears later in this guide.
TOPIK I vs TOPIK II at a Glance
| Feature | TOPIK I | TOPIK II |
|---|---|---|
| Levels awarded | 1 and 2 | 3, 4, 5 and 6 |
| Sections | Listening, Reading | Listening, Writing, Reading |
| Questions (paper test) | 30 listening and 40 reading, 70 in total | 50 listening, 4 writing and 50 reading, 104 in total |
| Time | About 100 minutes (listening 40, reading 60) | About 180 minutes (listening 60, writing 50, reading 70) |
| Total score | 200 (100 per section) | 300 (100 per section) |
| Level 1 / 2 minimum | 80 / 140 | Not applicable |
| Level 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 minimum | Not applicable | 120 / 150 / 190 / 230 |
| Writing by hand | No | Yes, on the paper test |
| Fee in Nepal (2026 notices) | NPR 3,000 | NPR 3,500 |
| Typical user | Beginners | Degree applicants, workers, scholarship and residency applicants |
In 2026 Embassy notices, TOPIK I was held in a morning block and TOPIK II in an afternoon block, with candidates arriving about 30 minutes before the start.
TOPIK I in Detail
Who It Is For
TOPIK I suits learners who have just begun Korean or completed a first stretch of language study. It confirms that you can handle basic daily communication, and it gives a first, formal, verifiable measure of your progress.
Format
| Section | Questions | Time | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 30 | 40 minutes | 100 |
| Reading | 40 | 60 minutes | 100 |
| Total | 70 | 100 minutes | 200 |
All questions are multiple choice. There is no writing or speaking component.
What the Levels Mean
| Level | Passing Score | Broad Description |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 80–139 | Basic survival Korean: greetings, introductions, ordering and buying, with a vocabulary commonly cited at around 800 words |
| Level 2 | 140–200 | Everyday tasks such as using the post office, bank or phone, and handling familiar topics, with a vocabulary commonly cited at around 1,500–2,000 words |
A score below 80 earns no level.
What the Questions Look Like
Listening items usually involve short dialogues about familiar situations such as shopping, directions, appointments and daily routines. You choose the answer that matches what was said, the picture that fits, or the most suitable reply. Reading items include signs, notices, short messages, menus and brief texts, with questions about vocabulary, grammar in context and main ideas.
What TOPIK I Is Good For
- Showing progress after a first term of study.
- Language institute placement conversations, where proof of level can help.
- Personal and community milestones, and a first formal certificate.
TOPIK I is usually not enough for degree admission, part-time work permits for degree students, or points in work and residency systems, which commonly ask for Level 3 or above. Toddle’s TOPIK I class is built around this beginner exam.
TOPIK II in Detail
Who It Is For
TOPIK II is the exam for learners who have moved beyond the basics. It is the version most Korean universities, employers and immigration systems refer to when they ask for a TOPIK level.
Format (Paper-Based Test)
| Section | Questions | Time | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 50 | 60 minutes | 100 |
| Writing | 4 | 50 minutes | 100 |
| Reading | 50 | 70 minutes | 100 |
| Total | 104 | 180 minutes | 300 |
In the Embassy’s 2026 schedule, Listening and Writing were held back to back (110 minutes in one session), followed by a break and then Reading (70 minutes).
The Writing Section
This is where TOPIK II becomes a different kind of test. Writing is done by hand on the paper exam and typically includes:
- Two short tasks completing sentences to fit a given context.
- A description of a chart or graph, in roughly 200–300 characters.
- An essay on a topic, in roughly 600–700 characters.
Spelling, spacing, grammar, vocabulary range and logical organization all affect the score. Many candidates find this section the main obstacle.
Level Descriptions
| Level | Minimum Score | Broad Description |
|---|---|---|
| Level 3 | 120 | Can manage daily life without much trouble and handle basic social relationships, understanding familiar topics |
| Level 4 | 150 | Can use public facilities and maintain social relationships, understand the general content of news and newspapers, and use common expressions |
| Level 5 | 190 | Can function to a reasonable degree in professional research or work, and handle political, economic and social topics |
| Level 6 | 230 | Can function at an advanced level in professional research and work, though not necessarily at native level |
A score below 120 earns no level.
Score Cut-Offs in One Place
| Level | Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | TOPIK I | 80 / 200 |
| 2 | TOPIK I | 140 / 200 |
| 3 | TOPIK II | 120 / 300 |
| 4 | TOPIK II | 150 / 300 |
| 5 | TOPIK II | 190 / 300 |
| 6 | TOPIK II | 230 / 300 |
These are the paper-based test cut-offs. The internet-based test reports on a different scale, and its level thresholds differ, so check the official announcement for the IBT version you take. Third-party websites sometimes publish incorrect cut-offs, so confirm figures on topik.go.kr.
Important point about registering for the wrong test. If you register for TOPIK II and score below 120, you do not receive a TOPIK I level instead. You receive no level at all, and you have paid the fee. This is the most common costly mistake in the system.
How Big Is the Jump From TOPIK I to TOPIK II?
The step is larger than the numbering suggests.
- Writing appears. TOPIK I has none. TOPIK II requires you to write paragraphs and a 600–700 character essay by hand.
- Texts become longer and more abstract. TOPIK II reading includes news-style passages, opinion pieces and explanatory texts.
- Listening moves beyond everyday dialogue. You hear longer conversations, lectures, interviews and announcements.
- Vocabulary demands grow considerably. TOPIK II assumes a much larger working vocabulary, including Sino-Korean words and common idioms.
- Stamina matters. Three hours of concentrated work is demanding, especially with hand-writing.
Many learners plan on moving from TOPIK I to TOPIK II within a few months. A realistic timeline is longer, because the gap between Level 2 and Level 3 requires real expansion of vocabulary, grammar and writing skills.
Which One Do You Need? A Goal-by-Goal Guide
For a Korean Language Program (D-4-1)
No TOPIK score is required to apply for a D-4-1 visa, since the program is designed to teach Korean from the beginning. TOPIK I can still be useful as proof of level for placement. If you are planning your route, Toddle’s D-4-1 code student visa counselling services cover how language-training visas fit into a longer plan.
For a Korean-Taught Degree (D-2)
Korean-taught degree programs commonly ask for TOPIK II, with Level 3 at the lower end and Level 4 or higher preferred by many universities. English-taught programs generally ask for an English test instead (IELTS, TOEFL or similar), but daily life and many campus processes still depend on Korean. Requirements vary by university and program, so confirm yours directly. Toddle’s D-2 student visa counselling services help match language requirements to your intended program.
For Part-Time Work as a Degree Student
Part-time work always needs a permit, and the Korean-language criteria published by university international offices commonly set:
- TOPIK Level 3 for bachelor’s students in years 1–2.
- TOPIK Level 4 for bachelor’s students in years 3–4 and graduate students.
Equivalent measures such as the Korea Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP) or Sejong Institute levels can sometimes substitute, and English-track students may qualify through English test scores. Higher levels can unlock more hours in some systems. Seoul’s draft guideline for the metropolitan visa pilot, for example, allows extra weekday hours for students with TOPIK 5 or above. Both thresholds are TOPIK II levels, so TOPIK I alone will not meet them.
For Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships such as the Global Korea Scholarship include a language-training year, and scholars receive an additional monthly bonus if they reach TOPIK Level 5 or 6. Program-specific language targets also apply, so check your scholarship’s guidelines for the exact requirement. The official Study in Korea portal is a good starting point for scholarship and university information.
For Work and Long-Term Residency
TOPIK II levels contribute to points-based systems. For example, strong TOPIK performance, commonly Level 4 or above, improves the chances of workers on E-9 moving to the skilled-worker E-7-4 category, and Korean-language ability also scores in long-term residency routes such as F-2-7. The exact points change over time, so check current criteria when you plan.
For Factory, Farm or Service Work Through EPS
This route uses a different exam. Candidates who want to work in Korea through the Employment Permit System must pass EPS-TOPIK, not TOPIK I or II.
| Feature | TOPIK I / II | EPS-TOPIK |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | General proficiency certification for study, work and residency | Selecting foreign workers for the Employment Permit System (E-9 visa) |
| Administered through | NIIED, with the Embassy in Nepal | HRD Korea, with Nepal’s Department of Foreign Employment |
| Content | General Korean, graded by level | Workplace and daily-life Korean from the official Standard Textbook |
| Format | Levels 1–6 scored on a point scale | Listening and reading, multiple choice, computer-based in recent rounds |
| Eligibility | Open to anyone | Age and other conditions set by the EPS notice |
| Interchangeable? | No | No |
Toddle’s EPS-TOPIK Korean language class focuses on that exam’s format, and the EPS-TOPIK listening tips guide breaks down its listening section.
Registration and Test Day in Nepal
Who Runs It
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal, at Ravibhawan, Kathmandu, announces each regular TOPIK session on its notice board, including dates, registration windows, fees and venue instructions. Always rely on the Embassy’s own notice for the latest information rather than social media posts.
Fees in the 2026 Notices
| Test | Fee in Nepal |
|---|---|
| TOPIK I | NPR 3,000 |
| TOPIK II | NPR 3,500 |
The notices state that payment is to be made only after the registration confirmation email is sent from TOPIK Nepal. Do not pay anyone who contacts you before that point.
2026 Sessions Announced for Nepal
| Session | Test Date | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| 106th TOPIK | May 17, 2026 | Announced by the Embassy in spring 2026 |
| 109th TOPIK | November 15, 2026 | Online, August 3–7, 2026, 10:00–16:00 Nepal time, closing early if capacity is reached |
For the 109th session, results were scheduled for December 22, 2026. Since registration for the 2026 sessions has already closed, watch the Embassy’s notice board for the next announcements. Registration windows are short, and places are limited.
Paper and Internet-Based Versions
NIIED also runs internet-based TOPIK (IBT) sessions on separate dates, with their own fees and scoring scale. Embassy notices for the regular sessions do not always state the delivery mode, so read the notice carefully and do not assume.
Test Day Basics
- Arrive in the classroom before the stated time, about 30 minutes before the start in 2026 notices.
- Bring the identification and admission documents named in the notice.
- Expect a long day if you take TOPIK II, because the writing and reading sections are separated by a break.
- For TOPIK II, practice hand-writing speed ahead of time.
TOPIK Speaking
TOPIK Speaking is a separate oral test with its own levels and schedule, held on specific dates in Korea and some other locations. It is not part of TOPIK I or II. Check whether it is offered in Nepal before planning around it.
Choosing Between the Two: A Self-Check
Answer these questions honestly.
- Can you write a coherent paragraph in Korean without a dictionary? If not, TOPIK II will be hard.
- Can you follow a news-style listening passage on a familiar topic? If not, TOPIK II listening will be a stretch.
- Do you need Level 3 or higher for a specific purpose? If yes, you are heading for TOPIK II regardless, so plan the timeline.
- Have you taken a full TOPIK II practice paper under timed conditions? If not, do so before registering.
- Does your target program or visa actually name a level? Check the written requirement before you choose.
If your practice TOPIK II score is clearly above 120, you are in a position to register. If it is nearer 80–110, you are probably better served by sitting TOPIK I now, building toward TOPIK II over the next terms.
Study Planning Estimates
These are rough planning estimates, not official figures, and they vary widely with prior experience and study quality.
| Target | Rough Cumulative Study Estimate |
|---|---|
| TOPIK I, Level 1 | Around 100–150 hours |
| TOPIK I, Level 2 | Around 150–250 hours |
| TOPIK II, Level 3 | Around 300–400 hours |
| TOPIK II, Level 4 | Around 500–700 hours |
A 12-Week TOPIK I Plan
- Weeks 1–3: Hangul reading and writing, greetings, numbers, basic particles.
- Weeks 4–7: Core grammar and vocabulary, daily-life topics, short dialogues.
- Weeks 8–10: Listening drills and reading practice from official past papers.
- Weeks 11–12: Timed mock tests and review.
A 16-Week TOPIK II Plan (From Level 2)
- Weeks 1–4: Consolidate Level 2 grammar and vocabulary, extend vocabulary toward topic areas such as work, society and environment.
- Weeks 5–8: Longer reading passages, listening practice with news-style and lecture content.
- Weeks 9–12: Writing practice: sentence completion, chart descriptions and essays, with corrections.
- Weeks 13–16: Full timed mock tests with hand-written answers, reviewing every error.
Official past papers and audio are available through the TOPIK website and are the best practice material. Structured classes such as Toddle’s basic Korean language class for building foundations and advance Korean language class for moving toward intermediate levels give you corrected practice, which matters most for writing.
Common Mistakes
- Registering for TOPIK II too early. A score under 120 earns no level.
- Assuming TOPIK I is enough for a degree or work permit. Most requirements name Level 3 or higher.
- Confusing TOPIK with EPS-TOPIK. They are separate exams for different purposes.
- Neglecting handwriting practice. Paper-based TOPIK II writing is slower than typing.
- Ignoring score validity. Results last two years, so plan the timing against your application.
- Trusting unofficial dates and fees. Use the Embassy’s notice board.
- Paying before the confirmation email. The notices say payment follows confirmation.
- Not checking program requirements. Universities and visa categories differ, and some accept English test scores in place of TOPIK.
- Treating TOPIK as the only skill that matters. Daily life and work also depend on speaking, which TOPIK I and II do not test.
Building Your Korean the Right Way
TOPIK rewards structured, corrected practice, especially the writing section. Choosing the right class matters, and Toddle’s guide to Korean language classes in Nepal explains what to look for in a course and an instructor.
Toddle, based at School Road, Hetauda-4, Makawanpur, teaches Korean from beginner level through TOPIK preparation. Its Korean-language instruction is led by founder Madhab Sapkota, a TOPIK Level 6 holder and certified Korean-language instructor, who completed the Korean Language Teachers’ Training Program at Tribhuvan University’s Campus of International Languages, supported by Korea’s Ministry of Education. No class can guarantee an exam result, because results depend on your own preparation and performance. A well-structured course helps you find your weak areas early and prepare under realistic conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions about TOPIK I vs TOPIK II
1. What is the main difference between TOPIK I and TOPIK II?
TOPIK I tests beginner Korean (Levels 1–2) with listening and reading, while TOPIK II tests intermediate to advanced Korean (Levels 3–6) with listening, writing and reading.
2. How many levels does TOPIK have?
Six. TOPIK I awards Levels 1 and 2, and TOPIK II awards Levels 3 to 6.
3. Do I register for a level or a category?
A category. You register for TOPIK I or TOPIK II, and your score decides the level you receive.
4. What score do I need for each level?
On the paper test, TOPIK I Level 1 needs 80 of 200 and Level 2 needs 140. TOPIK II Level 3 needs 120 of 300, Level 4 needs 150, Level 5 needs 190 and Level 6 needs 230.
5. What happens if I take TOPIK II and score under 120?
You receive no level. You do not receive a TOPIK I level instead.
6. How long is each exam?
TOPIK I runs about 100 minutes, and TOPIK II about 180 minutes, including the writing section.
7. Does TOPIK I have a writing section?
No. It has listening and reading only.
8. What does TOPIK II writing involve?
Typically two short sentence-completion tasks, a chart description of roughly 200–300 characters and an essay of roughly 600–700 characters, written by hand on the paper test.
9. Which exam do I need for a Korean-taught degree?
Usually TOPIK II, commonly Level 3 at the lower end and Level 4 or higher at many universities. Check your target program.
10. Do I need TOPIK to apply for a D-4-1 language visa?
No prior Korean is required for a D-4-1, though a TOPIK I result can help show your level.
11. Which level helps with part-time work permits?
University guidance commonly sets TOPIK Level 3 for early bachelor’s years and Level 4 for later years and graduate study, so TOPIK II is needed.
12. Can TOPIK substitute for EPS-TOPIK?
No. EPS-TOPIK is a separate exam run through the Employment Permit System.
13. How much does TOPIK cost in Nepal?
The 2026 Embassy notices listed NPR 3,000 for TOPIK I and NPR 3,500 for TOPIK II.
14. When should I pay the fee?
The notices say payment follows the registration confirmation email from TOPIK Nepal.
15. How long are TOPIK results valid?
Two years from the date results are announced.
16. How often is TOPIK held in Nepal?
The Embassy announces regular sessions, with 2026 notices including the 106th TOPIK on May 17 and the 109th on November 15. Watch the Embassy’s notice board for the next announcements.
17. Is there an internet-based version?
Yes. NIIED runs internet-based sessions with a different scale and fees. Embassy notices do not always state the delivery mode, so read each notice carefully.
18. Is TOPIK Speaking part of TOPIK II?
No. It is a separate test with its own schedule and levels.
19. Can I take TOPIK II without taking TOPIK I first?
Yes. There is no prerequisite. Register for whichever category matches your level.
20. Does a higher TOPIK level help with scholarships and work visas?
It can. Scholarships such as the Global Korea Scholarship give a language bonus for Level 5 or 6, and higher levels strengthen applications for skilled-worker and residency categories.
21. How should I prepare for TOPIK II writing?
Practice hand-writing under time limits, study model chart descriptions and essays, and have a teacher correct your work.
22. How do I decide which test to register for?
Take a timed TOPIK II practice paper. If you reach about 120 or more, register for TOPIK II. If you score well below that, sit TOPIK I and plan to move up.
Final Conclusion on TOPIK I vs TOPIK II
TOPIK I and TOPIK II are not “easy” and “hard” versions of the same exam. They are two different tests for two different stages of learning, and the choice between them should follow your actual goal and your honest level. TOPIK I gives beginners a first formal milestone. TOPIK II is the certificate that most degree programs, part-time work permits, scholarship language bonuses and residency or work-visa systems refer to.
Start from the requirement that matters to you, check the written conditions of your target university or visa, test yourself under real conditions, and register only when your practice scores support it. Then build your Korean with structured, corrected practice, especially writing for TOPIK II. That approach saves exam fees and avoids a level-less result.
Ready to Plan Your TOPIK Journey?
If you are unsure whether to sit TOPIK I or TOPIK II, or you want a study plan built around your own goal, whether that is a Korean degree, a work permit or a scholarship, Toddle’s team can assess your current level and help you plan realistically.
Contact Toddle through the contact page, or visit us at School Road, Hetauda-4, Makawanpur, to start Korean-language preparation built around the test you actually need.
