How well you know Korean? You can test your level by appearing for the Korean language proficiency test in India. This article will cover the benefits of the TOPIK exam in India, Centres, Dates, Levels, Syllabus, Fees, Course Content, and why you should take the official Korean certification.
The ability to speak a foreign language in India has numerous benefits across the spectrum. From gaining cultural awareness to get your dream language jobs, from an enthralling international trip to immigration to a new country. The advantages of learning a language are endless!
In the age of globalization on ever-shrinking earth, there are plenty of Career options in Foreign languages. If you’re not sure what language should you learn? Then you can choose Korean. The benefits of learning Korean in India is immense and full of job opportunities. Amongst Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin, Korean is not always the first choice, but maybe it should if we consider growing career prospects after learning Korean.
Table of Contents
What is the Korean Language Proficiency Test?
Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is designed for non-native Korean speakers as a way of certifying their knowledge in the Korean language. It is currently being offered SIX times a year to people studying the Korean language in Korea and twice annually to people in other countries, including India. The test measures your proficiency through listening comprehension, writing, and reading in the language.
Recognition and Acceptance
Founded in 1997 by the Korea Research Foundation, TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is designed and administered by the National Institute for International Education – NIIED. It is an executive entity under the Korean Ministry of Education, the Republic of Korea. (국립국제교육원.)
TOPIK is the most widely-recognized Korean language proficiency certification and accepted worldwide by public and private educational institutions, governments, and corporations.
What is the difference between TOPIK, EPS-TOPIK & KLPT?
TOPIK is a general Korean test for those who want to study or work or immigrate to Korea. EPS-TOPIK is Employment Permit System-Test of Proficiency in Korean. EPS TOPIK is needed by those who want to work in Korea as EPS workers (for factory jobs or in the manufacturing industry).
As per EPS TOPIK 2020, the exam is conducted only once a year in 16 countries, and the age limit is 18 to 39. There is no EPS TOPIK test center in India. The exam consists of only the beginners listening and reading tests, which are required for day to day activity and in performing diverse tasks at work.
KLAT, Korean Language Ability Test, is operated by the Korea Educational Testing Service authorized by the Korean government (Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism). It adheres to CEFR, Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, assessing the authentic proficiency of the Korean language.
Unlike TOPIK, there is only one paper for KLPT. All applicants take the same set of questions, and your grade/level is determined by the score you get. There are FOUR levels, namely KLAT Novice / Beginners KLAT, i.e., B-KLAT (grade 1 to 2), KLAT Intermediate (grade 3 to 4), and KLAT Advanced (grade 5 to 6). TOPIK seems to be more recognized, accepted, and appropriate for academic goals.
Read — (i) Japanese Classes in Bangalore (ii) Career Scope in Japanese (iii) Job opportunities after learning Japanese (iv) Japanese Institutes in Delhi (v) Career Options in Chinese Language (vi) Scope of Mandarin Language (vii) Chinese Classes in Delhi (viii) Mandarin Courses in Mumbai (ix) Job Opportunities in Korean (x) Korean Courses in Delhi.
Benefits of the Korean Language Test
The Korean proficiency test is beneficial for obvious reasons. They can be proof of competence for job applications and advanced studies in Korea. You can demonstrate your level of Korean proficiency by giving the language test TOPIK since these certifications provide job seekers and employees a competitive advantage. Thus, It is a great asset to include on your resume.
Documentary proof of the Korean language test certificate added to other requirements will put you on your way to a smooth interview process. The test result will somehow restrict the interviewer on the types of questions you are supposed to answer. Instead of asking you about things like “what is an umbrella called in Korean.” It is most likely that you would instead be asked, “what level did you attain in TOPIK?” It is as a result of your Korean language test certification included in your qualifications.
Are you planning to study in South Korea? The Government of South Korea offers KGSP (Korean Government Scholarship Program) to meritorious students to promote international exchange in education as well as mutual friendship amongst participating countries. TOPIK certification is a prerequisite for such a scholarship. Besides, These diplomas are recognized and accepted by Korean universities and Educational institutions for undergraduate entry as well as for postgraduate admission.
TOPIK is vital if you are planning to apply for permanent residency or looking for a working visa in South Korea. It is useful in the ‘Korea Immigration and Integration Program’ (KIIP) operated by the Ministry of Justice. The KIIP program consists of two halves: Korean language training and Understanding Korean Society.
There are few more advantages like boosting one’s confidence, traveling to Korea, and of course, confirmation of your Korean proficiency level. It can translate into developing your personality at a career and social transitioning level.
TOPIK Exam Structure (Pass Mark)
TOPIK Levels
TOPIK has three different categories of testing, namely; beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels. There is a total of 6 levels. TOPIK I is the elementary level test containing two sublevels grades (Level 1 and Level 2). On the other hand, TOPIK II is the combined intermediate/advanced level with four sublevels (Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, and Level 6).
Read — (i) HSK Exam (ii) Japanese Proficiency Test (iii) French Proficiency Exam (iv) TCF Exam (v) Spanish Proficiency Test (vi) SIELE Certification (vii) Italian Proficiency Exam (viii) TestDaF Exam.
Validity
TOPIK and EPS-TOPIK results are valid for two (2) years from the time of test result announcements. I’d understand if the validity were longer, like 5-10 years, but two years is quite less. I have studied Japanese for more than a year and learned over 500 Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Today, I might not remember even 200. It is because if one does not practice and read enough, one will forget the most in a couple of years. I’m sure there must be some genuine reason for 2-year validity!
TOPIK Test Centres in India
As of November 2019 – There are 54 test centers in South Korea and 238 overseas centers in the rest of the world. There are 292 TOPIK exam centers in 83 countries in total. The 63rd and 66th TOPIK Exam in India will be held in 5 domestic locations, namely Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jharkhand, and Manipur.
Address: SLL&CS, JNU, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi
Address: The InKo Centre, 18, Adyar Club Gate Road, Chennai
Contact: 044 – 2436 1224/6, Email : [email protected]
Website: LINK
Address: CFEL, Room No 29, Central University of Jharkhand, Brambe, Ranchi.
Contact: 8797811727 / 8800256914, Email : [email protected] / [email protected]
Website: LINK
Address: 2nd Floor, Manipur University, Canchipur, Imphal, Manipur.
Contact: 98560-71440, Email : [email protected]
Website: LINK
For Hyderabad
Registration Centre
Address: Honorary Consulate General, Korea House, No. 64, Road No. 14, Film Nagar, Hyderabad.
Contact : 044 – 23/24 999999, 99080-50005
Examination Centre
Address: Hyundai R&D Centre, Annex Building, First Floor 1, Survey No 5/2 & 5/3, Opp. HITEC City MMTS Railway Station, Izzathnagar, Kondapur, Hyderabad.
For more information regarding the TOPIK Exam in India, you can contact the Korean Culture Centre, 25-A, Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar – IV, New Delhi. Contact : 011-43345041 / 5000.
Website: LINK
TOPIK Exam Dates 2020
TOPIK exam is held twice in India. Once in April and another in October. Timing is from 09:10 to 11:20 AM for TOPIK I and 12:20 to 16:20 for TOPIK II.
The 69th TOPIK examination will be held on 12th April 2020 (Sunday). The registration period is 31st January to 6th February 2020, and the results will be declared on 21st May 2020.
The 72nd TOPIK Test will be conducted on 18 October 2020 (Sunday). The registration period is 04th to 10th August 2020, and the results will be declared on 26th November 2020.
Please Note: The registration dates may vary in India. Please check with the respective test center or contact the Korean cultural center.
TOPIK Exam Fees in India
The fees for the exam will depend on the level that you sign up for and the country in which you decide to do it. For 2020, 69th and 72nd TOPIK Korean Proficiency Test in India, Fees are ₹ 800 (TOPIK 1) and ₹ 1,000 (TOPIK 2).
Is the language test conducted online?
No. Only at 5 authorized test centers – Delhi, Chennai, Ranchi, Manipur, and Hyderabad.
Are there Centres in TamilNadu to learn Korean?
Affiliated to the Embassy of South Korea, INKO-Centre in Chennai is a great option. Check — Korean Courses in Chennai.
Hello sir, I would like to ask which books should I prefer to study for TOPIK level 1 and 2.
Maybe you can purchase these two books on amazon to cover beginners level — LINK1 and LINK2
Are there any websites where I can study vocabulary online? and also about Grammar.
It is better to join any Korean learning center. If you wish to learn on own or through online resources, then spend money on books, paid websites/apps, or online teachers. I’m not aware of any free resources worth to recommend. I might write about Korean resources in January.
Hello Sir,
I also have a great interest in learning a foreign language and Korean is the first. What would be the best thing for me to begin with? At present, I’m preparing for the entrance exams because I am studying in 12th grade. I can read Korean fluently but can’t really understand what I read. I want to keep in touch with the language for the next 6 months, after which I can give my time to it. Please help me, sir.
Everything depends on your goal, and why you wish to learn Korean. The answer will vary depending on the reason, like a hobby, or full-fledged career, or just an additional skill. One can learn how to read Korean in just 4 days. It is too easy! However, to become a Korean interpreter, even 4 years are not enough. Take your time, read more, and think over it.
I would like to know whether the Korean language course started by IGNOU is effective? To what level it will teach me, i.e., whether it is just beginners or intermediate or advanced?
It covers only the beginner’s level. Online/Distance learning language programs are usually less effective. Explore some offline classroom courses.
Hello, sir Pawan here. Give me suggest some Korean diploma university in India. And give me your phone number / WhatsApp number sir, then i talk to you.
You can browse the entire list — Korean Courses. While it won’t be possible for me to talk on phone/WA, but you can always post a comment here or send an email.
Hello Sir, I’m studying engineering (final year). I want to work in Korea for that should I take test TOPIK [is it compulsory to attempt all the six levels] or EPS-TOPIK to get a job there? and I can read and write a Korean language but not enough understanding level, HOW much it takes time to speak Korean?
You need to appear for TOPIK Exam, and not EPS-TOPIK. The EPS-T is useful to work in Korea as EPS workers (like factory jobs). One can acquire the Hangul alphabet, and read & write some Korean in a few weeks. If, however, you aim to work in Korea or work as a Korean specialist, then target TOPIK Level 5, a prerequisite for most of the jobs where Korean language skill is needed. To pass level V and able to speak with natives, it will take 3-5 years. Learning Korean is a vital decision since it takes a considerable amount of time. Good Luck!
When is the next exam? I want to apply for that, but I am not getting where to do that? Should I need to go to Chennai or Hyderabad?
You need to contact the nearest TOPIK test center. Besides, you can also get in touch with the KCC in New Delhi. The contact details are mentioned in this article.
As per many, those people basic topik exam is enough to work in a factory, hotel, restaurant or manufacturing company. Please clear this thing for us.
For that, there is a different exam, i.e., EPS TOPIK (Employment Permit System). It is required for jobs at the factory, hotels, manufacturing industry, etc. The test is conducted once or twice every year, and there is no test centre in India. LINK
How do I register with TOPIK for the upcoming exam in October?
You can contact the nearest test centre or KCC in New Delhi.
Can I give topik 1 and 2 levels exam on the same day because the time for these tests is different?
I guess Yes if you’re confident enough.
Sir, my son is currently pursuing his studies in Korea. He has already cleared level 1 and 2. Though he has attempted the TOPIK II exam twice, the results were somehow not declared due to an administrative problem which poses a problem to his graduation. Can he take the test in India, will the results be announced on time?
The results are almost always declared on time. I don’t think TOPIK is compulsory if the course is taught in English. He can give the exam in India and can contact the Korean Cultural centre for the same. Also, The TOPIK exam is held 6 times in South Korea and only twice in India. So, even if he misses or not declared in Korea, he can give the next one in 2-3 months.
Hello sir, I am already learning Japanese and German language so I want to know that whether learning Korean will give an add on to my resume! And if I want to do it by self how can I do it.
The career possibilities can open up depending on your level of engagement with the language. Ability to speak one language fluently is better than acquiring elementary knowledge in 4 languages. In short, language skill is helpful only if you achieve Intermediate or higher level proficiency. I’d suggest to pick one language between German, Japanese and Korean, and stick to that one for the next few years. Whatever you decide, join any learning centre to achieve B2 (German) or N2 (Japanese) or Level 5 (Korean)! Self-study is not very effective beyond the beginners level. Read — Korean Courses in India.
Hi Sir,
Can you please tell me about the Jobs that I can apply for in India or Overseas after clearing Topik level 2?
TOPIK Level 2 is honestly not enough to fulfill any job requirement where Korean skill is mandatory. You should at least aim for Level 4 if not 5.
Thanks for answering my question. Please give your WhatsApp number sir so that I can ask Korean related things.
It will be difficult for me to respond to WA or Phone due to a busy schedule. You can ask through the comment section or send me an email. CONTACT
Sir is it possible to take student loan where we can pay after one-year completion of Korean language? I mean loan for just studying the language in Korea.
You can get a student loan for study abroad. Will it be all worth in the end? Well, only you can decide.
Hi Sir, my question is that I just completed my 12th and I want to learn Korean so that I can be an interpreter or translator, So can you plz tell me what I have to do to become Korean interpreter and please suggest me some good colleges for the same and degrees so that I am eligible to be Korean interpreter. Thank you so much.
To become a successful Korean translator or interpreter, you need near-native level Korean proficiency. This will take approximately 4-5 years. As far as courses are concerned, you can read — Korean Language Courses in India.
Hey, Guess we’re in the same boat! I’ve passed my 12th too and wanting to be interpreter too!! Which exam are you taking? And where are you from? Army?
If you wanna study the Korean language then JNU is the best option because it’s the only institution that provides bachelors degree in Korean but for this, you’ll have to give JNUEE conducted every year and as for this year, it has been conducted so you can wait for next year.
Yes.
Hello sir i’m Pawan Kumar. I am learning a Korean at home for YouTube support. My question is degree is most compulsory. I have no university degree. so please suggest me what I can do for now.
While a degree is not the criteria for greater success in the job market. However, to enhance your career prospect, at least Bachelor if not Master degree matters! If you want to learn Korean in a proper and systematic way, i would recommend you to join any Korean centre. Self-study that also through Youtube is not very effective due to lack of regular interaction and guidance. In addition, you might lose the interest and your learning progress might become too slow.
Sir! Do I have to give topik for taking admission in Korea for bachelors or I can give topik after I reach in Korea?? Or without topik I won’t get admission in bachelors only?
Every Korean Universities has its own rules and guidelines. Some universities require a certain TOPIK level to get admission in their courses whereas TOPIK is not mandatory in many institutions. You should check and contact the concerned university.
Sir, my question is, if i’ll give the TOPIK exam which will be conducted on 20th Oct. then i’ll be able to get KGSP scholarship? As TOPIK is not necessary for scholarship (it will only inc. my chances for getting it ) so according to you Sir, upto what TOPIK level i should get in order to inc. my chances for getting KGSP scholarship as from March 2019 to Oct 2019 i’ve somewhat 7 months. And if i’ll get one, i’ll be able to attend the classes in 2020 (i mean how much time it takes)? Sir, so sorry for so many questions ??
According to KGSP 2019 for Indians (LINK), the scholarship is offered to 15 candidates only for Master, Doctoral and research programs. The applicants who received outstanding scores in Proficiency in Korean: TOPIK and English will be given preferences. While level is not mentioned, the higher is usually better. In 7 months, you can only complete TOPIK Level I or II. This may not be enough but at least better than nothing and it will also enhance your application. Good luck!
Hi Sir,
Is it possible to get a Language Specialist/ Translator job in India after clearing Topik level 1 or 2? And how is the job market for Korean language in India? I find many job opportunities for other foreign languages like French, Chinese, Spanish, German etc., as compared to Korean in India.
No. If you want to be a Korean specialist or translator, you need TOPIK Level V which will take roughly 3 to 4 years. While it is true that number of Korean jobs are less compared to other popular languages but number of Korean experts are also very few. Thus, less applicants and less competition. Additionally, Korean job opportunities are also growing in past few years. Read — Scope of Korean in India, Benefits of Learning Korean and Time required to learn a language?.
Can I complete level 3 in 6 months?
No. It usually takes 2 years to pass level 3.
Sir,
I want to apply for phd in Korea. how can I do that. Is TOPIK compulsory?
That will depend upon the research program and educational institutions. Several Universities in South Korea also conduct the classes in English. If your course requires knowledge of Korean you may be asked to take a TOPIK. You can confirm from the University once finalized. In any case, You should learn Korean if you are going there. Your stay will be better.
I wanted to be a doctor in Korea and is it possible for me to become a doctor in India also. Do u know the process sir? For becoming a doctor do i need to give TOPIK test??
Other than few technological aspect, India’s medical industry is as as advanced as South Korea’s. If you want study in the reputed Medical Universities in South Korea. It is definitely possible. There are, however 4 caveats. (i) The Korean degree may not be accepted or recognized in every part of the world including India. Check MCI India for confirmation. (ii) Expensive not just fees but living cost. You may not able to get or do any part-time job to support your education. (iii) You need to be very good in Korean language. Even if TOPIK is not mandatory, you still need to achieve high proficiency. This will easily take 3-5 years. (iv) There is no guarantee of Jobs in Korea after completing the course. This is a big move, so think carefully and take your informed decision.
Sir, is it compulsory to join any institution?, and also do we have to give both level exams and can I give it if i’m in class 12? Sorry for so many questions.
The most important question is why you want to appear for TOPIK Exam? TOPIK results are valid for only 2 years. There is no advantage if you’re not going to use the topik result within 2 years. No, it is not compulsory to join any institute. You can study on own though difficult. You can give exam. What you mean by both level exam? There are total 6 levels.
I want to apply for MFA in Korea. Is it compulsory for me to clear TOPIK level 3? The universities do have their own provision for learning Korean language during their Graduation course. I do have my GRE and TOEFL qualifying results, do I still have to appear for TOPIK?
That will depend on the University and Course. You can check the eligibility and requirement for the same. Even if not compulsory, you should learn Korean if you are planning to study in Korea. The ability to speak at least Intermediate level Korean will make your life a lot easier.
Are there any limited number of attempts for the exam??
No. You can appear for TOPIK Exam as many times as you wish.
Sir,
Do we have to attend some kind of institute or academy to appear this exam?
No. Anyone can appear for TOPIK Exam. Only requirement is Knowledge. To learn Korean, however you have to join any institute or learning centre since Self-study is not very effective.
sir, how much time takes to complete all 6 levels in the course?
My rough estimate is 5 years to complete level 6. There is a big gap between Level 3 and and the advanced levels of TOPIK 5 and 6 as per language difficulty is concerned. While it will take long time but if you are really interested in doing up til TOPIK 6, go for it with full motivation, dedication and planning. Read — How Long does it take to learn a foreign language?
Sir
What is the total cost to finish level 1 and level 2 include exam fees?
TOPIK Exam fees are quite less. The Fees for learning Korean, however will depend on Institutes and learning centres.
Is it compulsory to have Topik2 certificate for entry in south Korea by employment visa or training visa?
No, it is not compulsory if any company send you to south Korea for employment or training purpose. TOPIK is required or an added advantage if you want to work with a Korean company or need a proof of Korean proficiency or planning to visit Korea for Job or higher studies.
Sir
Thanks for your reply. its very useful. I understood that there is no any legal requirements to learn Korean language to entry in south Korea for employment or training visa. once again Thank you.
Sir Is it possible to achieve TOPIK level 4 in 4 months from scratch?
Of course not. It will 2-3 years provided that you study roughly 15 hours every week. If want to make career in Korean, aim for TOPIK Level V. This will take at least 3 years.
Where is the test centre in Hyderabad? I want to apply for the next April exam in hyderabad. Any details please?
I saw Hyderabad as test centre but no information regarding the exact location. I will update once i get more information.
How do I apply for the exam? Or where do I register? Is It online or do I have to visit the above mentioned centers to enroll myself?
You have to visit the centre. The next TOPIK exam will be held on 21st April, 2019 and the registration period is 24th to 31st January, 2019. If you have any question regarding the test, you can contact Korean Culture Centre. All contact details are there in this article.
I learnt Korean language and want to learn Korean more.
Great. You should appear for Korean Proficiency Test to check your competence level.
Can I directly approach for level 3 without giving the exam of level 1&2?
Yes, You can definitely skip Level 1 and 2 and give Level 3 directly. Since most people underestimate their language learning time-frame, only try level 3 if your Korean is good enough. The complexity of the Korean language increases after beginners level.