TOPIK II vs TOPIK I vs EPS-TOPIK: Which Korean Exam Should You Take in 2026?
If you're planning to study, work, or live in South Korea, passing the right Korean language exam is crucial. The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is the most recognized, but it's not the only option. In this guide, we compare TOPIK II (Intermediate-Advanced) with TOPIK I (Beginner) and EPS-TOPIK (Employment System) to help you decide which exam fits your goals in 2026.
Understanding the Exams
TOPIK II (Intermediate-Advanced)
Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education, TOPIK II is designed for learners aiming for CEFR B1 to C2 proficiency. It awards Levels 3 to 6 and is the standard for:
- University admission (undergraduate and graduate) – most Korean universities require Level 3 or higher.
- Scholarships such as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS/KGSP) – typically Level 4 or above.
- Employment – for E-7 visas and points under the F-2 residency system.
- Career advancement in Korean companies or government positions.
Format:
- Listening (60 minutes, 50 questions)
- Writing (50 minutes, 4 questions – includes essay)
- Reading (70 minutes, 50 questions)
Total test time: 180 minutes (excluding breaks).
Scoring: Each section is scored out of 100, total 300. To pass Level 3, you need at least 120 points; Level 4 needs 150; Level 5 needs 190; Level 6 needs 230. There is no pass/fail – your score determines your level.
Cost (2026): Registration fee is approximately ₩40,000 (about $30) for TOPIK II, but it may vary by country.
Test dates: TOPIK is held 6 times a year (in Korea) and up to 4 times internationally. In 2026, exams are scheduled in January, April, May, July, October, and November.
TOPIK I (Beginner)
TOPIK I is for beginners and covers CEFR A1-A2, awarding Level 1 or 2. It consists of:
- Listening (40 minutes, 30 questions)
- Reading (60 minutes, 40 questions)
Total time: 100 minutes. No writing section. Scoring is out of 200; Level 1 requires 80 points, Level 2 requires 140.
Cost (2026): Approximately ₩35,000 (about $25).
When to choose TOPIK I: If you're just starting your Korean journey, need a basic certificate for short-term language programs, or want to gauge your level before committing to TOPIK II. However, for academic or professional goals, TOPIK II is almost always required.
EPS-TOPIK (Employment System)
EPS-TOPIK is a special test for foreign workers seeking employment in Korea under the Employment Permit System. It is not a general proficiency test but a vocational Korean test focusing on language skills needed in factories, agriculture, and fisheries.
Format:
- Reading (50 minutes, 25 questions)
- Listening (30 minutes, 25 questions)
Total time: 80 minutes. It also includes a Standard Competency Test (30 minutes) on Korean workplace culture and safety.
Scoring: Pass/fail – you need at least 80 points out of 100 in each section to pass.
Cost (2026): Varies by country, but typically around $20-30.
When to choose EPS-TOPIK: Only if you are applying for an E-9 visa through the Employment Permit System. It is not accepted for university or professional jobs.
Comparison Table
| Feature | TOPIK II | TOPIK I | EPS-TOPIK | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Purpose | Academic, professional, immigration | Basic proficiency | Employment (E-9 visa) | | CEFR Levels | B1-C2 | A1-A2 | Not mapped | | Format | Listening, Writing, Reading | Listening, Reading | Reading, Listening, Competency | | Duration | 180 min | 100 min | 80 min (plus competency) | | Scoring | 0-300 (Levels 3-6) | 0-200 (Levels 1-2) | Pass/fail (80/100) | | Difficulty | High | Low | Moderate (workplace-specific) | | Acceptance | Universities, employers, immigration | Limited to basics | Only for E-9 visa | | Cost (2026) | ~₩40,000 | ~₩35,000 | Varies by country | | Test Frequency | 6 times/yr (KR) | Same as TOPIK II | Varies by country |
How to Choose the Right Exam
Choose TOPIK II if you:
- Aim to study at a Korean university or pursue a GKS scholarship.
- Need a professional-level certificate for career advancement.
- Plan to apply for an E-7 visa or F-2 residency points.
- Already have a foundation and are ready for intermediate-advanced challenges.
Choose TOPIK I if you:
- Are a beginner and need a basic certificate for personal or short-term goals.
- Want to test your level before attempting TOPIK II.
- Need proof of basic Korean for a language exchange or entry-level program.
Choose EPS-TOPIK if you:
- Are specifically seeking employment in Korea's manufacturing or agricultural sectors.
- Have been invited by the Korean government or an employer under EPS.
- Do not need academic or professional recognition.
Expert Tips for 2026 Test-Takers
- 1Check your target level: Universities often require Level 3 or 4, while GKS requires Level 4+. Set your goal accordingly.
- 2Understand the writing section: TOPIK II's writing is often the most challenging. Practice essay formats and time management.
- 3Stay updated: Fees and dates can change. Always check the official TOPIK website or your local Korean embassy.
- 4Take mock tests: Familiarize yourself with the format and time pressure. LanguageTest.in offers realistic TOPIK II mock tests that simulate the actual exam.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Korean exam depends on your goals. For most academic and professional pathways, TOPIK II is the gold standard. If you're just starting, TOPIK I can be a stepping stone. For manual labor jobs, EPS-TOPIK is the only route. As 2026 approaches, plan early, practice consistently, and leverage quality resources.
Ready to Ace TOPIK II?
Visit LanguageTest.in to access comprehensive TOPIK II mock tests, practice materials, and expert tips. Our realistic simulations help you build confidence and improve your score. Start your journey to Korea today!