Harnessing the Power of the Korean Wave: 2025 TOPIK Test Schedule and Strategies for Each Test
The recent global proliferation of Hallyu content has led to an explosion of interest in learning Korean. Korean dramas on Netflix, K-pop, and a growing interest in Korean culture have led to a surge in people learning Korean from around the world.
The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) has become the most important test for officially certifying Korean language proficiency. As of 2024, nearly 410,000 people from 87 countries around the world had taken TOPIK, an increase of 151 TP3T from the previous year.
Starting in 2025, the TOPIK Speaking test will be officially introduced to provide a more comprehensive assessment of your Korean language skills. This is an important change in line with global trends that emphasize real-world communication skills.
In this article, we'll walk you through the full TOPIK 2025 test schedule and effective preparation strategies for each section. We'll provide practical information for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced learners, so take the first step towards improving your Korean 😊.
📋 Table of Contents
1. 2025 TOPIK Test Schedule at a Glance (First Half/Second Half) 📅
In 2025, TOPIK will be expanded to six times a year and will be offered in both paper-based test (PBT) and internet-based test (IBT) formats. According to the official schedule released by the Ministry of Education and the National Institute of International Education, the dates are as follows
📝 TOPIK PBT Test Schedule for 2025
First half (complete): January, April, May, July
Second half (remaining exams): October, November
Key test dates: October 19, November
As of August 16, 2025, the remaining TOPIK exams for this year will be available at Only twice in October and Novemberonly. IBT exams have expanded to six times a year in 13 countries, giving you more opportunities, but you need to start organizing now.
Beginning in 2025, IBT exams will be offered six times a year in 13 countries, with the United States (Guam), Romania, Malaysia, Pakistan, Vietnam, Thailand, and Paraguay being added as new pilot countries.
2. Complete Guide to TOPIK Speaking 2025 Newcomers 🎤
The TOPIK speaking test is a 6-question, 200-point test that assesses a test taker's language proficiency and communication skills. It is an important shift in the paradigm of Korean language education to focus on real-world communication.
Organizing the TOPIK Speaking test
-. Number of questions: 6 questions total
-. Scoring: Out of 200
-. Test Method: Internet-based testing (IBT)
-. Assessment area: Pronunciation, fluency, grammatical accuracy, vocabulary usage
The AI-powered remote testing system will be fully operational in 2026, and will be advanced by 2028. It will provide automated item generation, AI scoring, and remote proctoring, enabling fairer and more efficient assessments.
3. TOPIK preparation strategies and effective study methods for each level 📚.
TOPIK can be earned by reaching a certain number of points for each level, from Level 1 through Level 6. In order to prepare effectively, it's important to know exactly where you stand and create a strategy for your target level.
Acquisition Criteria by TOPIK Level
TOPIK I: Level 1 (80-139), Level 2 (140+)
TOPIK II: Level 3 (120 to 149 points), Level 4 (150 to 189 points), Level 5 (190 to 229 points), Level 6 (230 points or more)
While TOPIK I is easier because it assesses basic Korean language skills, TOPIK II is more challenging because of the writing section and the questions are generally more difficult. Especially level 4 and above are essential for university admission and employment, so you need to prepare systematically.
Beginner (Level 1-2): Focus on basic vocabulary and grammar
Intermediate (Level 3-4): Improve reading speed and practice writing
Advanced (Level 5-6): Complete advanced vocabulary, complex grammar, and logical writing
4. Tips and precautions for getting a high score on TOPIK 💡
Achieving a high score on the TOPIK requires more than just Korean language skills, but also test-taking strategies and time management skills. Your score is valid for two years from the date of release, so it's important to plan your preparation.
Make sure you understand the test rules, as you are not allowed to bring any electronic devices (power down before the test and hand them in to the proctor), and if you are caught cheating, you will not be allowed to take the test for the next five years.
High-scoring strategies by domain
Listen: Keyword-focused notes, previewing choices
Read: Identify paragraph topic sentences and practice time allocation
Write: Utilize logical structure, diverse vocabulary, and grammar
It's important to familiarize yourself with your computer environment, especially for IBT exams introduced in 2025. Because IBT exams may be restricted in locations with unreliable internet access, we recommend that you check and practice the test environment beforehand.
- Reception hours: 10am to 16pm daily
- Apply for a full refund before 10:00 a.m. on the deadline date
- Your full name must be the same as the official ID you will bring to the test.
- The official website (www.topik.go.kr) for the latest information.
5. related korean learning resources 📖
For effective TOPIK preparation, it's important to utilize organized Korean language learning resources. Here are some proven Korean learning platforms and training programs.
🔗 Recommended Korean study guides
How 250,000 people in 85 countries chose to learn Korean for free
Learn more → → View
Step-by-step TOPIK preparation strategies and practice tips
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Who won the 15 million downloads showdown?
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-. Official questions: Free download from the TOPIK homepage
-. Online practice tests: Practice like a real exam environment
-. Korean podcast: Daily practice to improve listening skills
6. Frequently asked questions (FAQ) ❓
💡 2025 TOPIK Core Summary
Wrap-up: Certify your Korean language skills with the 2025 TOPIK 📝
In 2025, TOPIK evolved into a more comprehensive and accessible Korean language proficiency test with the introduction of the speaking test and the expansion of the IBT. At a time when interest in Hallyu content is leading to Korean language learning, TOPIK is the surest way to get your Korean language skills officially certified.
Make sure you have an organized study plan, get plenty of practice with official practice questions, and keep working toward your goal score. And don't forget to prepare for the new speaking test!
We hope this article helps you prepare for the TOPIK and we wish you the best in your Korean learning journey. If you have any questions, feel free to ask us in the comments 😊.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational purposes only, and you should always check the official website (www.topik.go.kr) for the latest information about the TOPIK test. The test schedule and rules are subject to change, so please double-check the official announcement before taking the test.
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