2026 TOPIK Test Schedule: Complete Guide to All 15 Exams

1. 2026 TOPIK Test Schedule Overview and Changes

TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is the official standardized exam that evaluates Korean language proficiency for non-native speakers and overseas Koreans. Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), TOPIK has been conducted since 1997 and is now available in 323 locations across 87 countries worldwide.

The 2026 TOPIK test schedule features 6 PBT (paper-based) sessions, 6 IBT (computer-based) sessions, and 3 Speaking tests. Starting in 2026, IBT testing will expand to include India, Nepal, Laos, and Bahrain for the first time.

1. TOPIK I (Levels 1-2): Beginner level, listening and reading sections, maximum score of 200 points
2. TOPIK II (Levels 3-6): Intermediate to advanced level, listening, reading, and writing sections, maximum score of 300 points
3. TOPIK Speaking: Separate oral proficiency assessment

2. 2026 TOPIK PBT Schedule (Sessions 104-109)

PBT (Paper-Based Test) is the traditional pencil-and-paper format. In 2026, six sessions will be held in South Korea, while international test centers will conduct five sessions (Session 104 in January is Korea-only).

International test-takers should note that registration periods may vary by country. Contact your local Korean embassy, Korean education center, or King Sejong Institute to confirm exact dates for your region.

3. 2026 TOPIK IBT Schedule (Sessions 11-16)

IBT (Internet-Based Test) launched in November 2023 as a computer-based alternative. Test-takers view questions on screen and submit answers using a mouse and keyboard. Six IBT sessions are scheduled for 2026.

IBT results are released in approximately 3 weeks, significantly faster than PBT (6-7 weeks). Countries offering IBT in 2026 include South Korea, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Hong Kong, Philippines, USA (Guam), Indonesia, Malaysia, Romania, Thailand, Paraguay, and Mongolia. Four new countries join in 2026: India, Nepal, Laos, and Bahrain.

4. 2026 TOPIK Speaking Test Schedule

TOPIK Speaking is a separate oral assessment that launched in November 2022. Conducted via computer-based format, it requires test-takers to record spoken responses. Three sessions are scheduled for 2026.

1. Session 10: Registration Jan 13-19, 2026 → Test Mar 21 (Sat) → Results Apr 13, 2026
2. Session 11: Registration Apr 7-13, 2026 → Test Jun 13 (Sat) → Results Jul 6, 2026
3. Session 12: Registration Aug 18-24, 2026 → Test Oct 24 (Sat) → Results Nov 16, 2026

The Speaking test records your voice through a computer headset. While currently optional, this component is gaining importance. Students planning to study or work in Korea should prepare for Speaking early, as universities and employers increasingly value oral proficiency.

5. Test Fees and Required Materials

The 2026 TOPIK test fees vary by format and level. The following rates apply to tests held in South Korea (international fees are set by local administrators).

Overseas test fees are determined by local testing organizations and may differ from Korean rates. On test day, you must bring valid photo identification (passport, alien registration card, etc.) and your admission ticket.

1. Required items: Photo ID (government-issued), admission ticket
2. PBT materials: Computer marking pen, correction tape (optional)
3. IBT materials: None needed (testing center provides computer equipment)

6. Effective Study Strategies for TOPIK Success

TOPIK evaluates listening, reading, and writing (TOPIK II only) skills. A structured preparation plan is essential for achieving your target score.

1. Analyze past exams: Download official past papers from topik.go.kr to understand question patterns. Work through at least 5 years of past exams three or more times for best results.

2. Intensive listening practice: Immerse yourself in natural Korean through K-dramas and K-pop. Three months before your test, practice listening at actual exam speed. Netflix Korean content with Korean subtitles works excellently for this purpose.

3. Build vocabulary systematically: TOPIK I requires approximately 1,500-2,000 words, while TOPIK II demands 3,500-4,000. Learn 20-30 new words daily using spaced repetition apps like Anki or Memrise.

4. Writing practice (TOPIK II): Question 54 requires an essay of approximately 700 characters. Write 2-3 practice essays weekly on various topics and seek feedback from Korean speakers or teachers.

5. Simulate real test conditions: One month before your exam, take full practice tests during the actual exam time slot. Developing time management skills is crucial for completing all sections.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. When is the first TOPIK exam in 2026?
A1. The first 2026 exam is Session 104 PBT on January 11 (Sunday), held only in South Korea. International test-takers can register starting with Session 105 in April.

Q2. Should I choose PBT or IBT?
A2. Choose IBT if you’re comfortable with computers and need faster results. Select PBT if you prefer handwriting or if IBT isn’t available in your country. Both formats test identical content and skills.

Q3. How long are TOPIK scores valid?
A3. TOPIK scores remain valid for 2 years from the results announcement date. University admissions and visa applications only accept scores within this validity period.

Q4. How do I register for TOPIK outside Korea?
A4. International registration is handled by local testing organizations. Contact your nearest Korean embassy, Korean education center, or King Sejong Institute for registration dates and procedures specific to your country.

Q5. What are the score requirements for each TOPIK level?
A5. TOPIK I: Level 1 requires 80+ points, Level 2 requires 140+ points. TOPIK II: Level 3 requires 120+ points, Level 4 requires 150+ points, Level 5 requires 190+ points, and Level 6 requires 230+ points.

8. Related Reading

1) Top 20 K-Drama Korean Expressions: Essential Guide for Beginners

2) Complete Guide to Language Exchange for Korean Learning

3) How to Learn Korean with K-Dramas: Your Roadmap to Watching Without Subtitles

9. References

10. Additional Resources (YouTube & Social Media)

1) Talk To Me In Korean YouTube Channel (Korean Language Learning)
https://www.youtube.com/@talktomeinkorean

2) TOPIK GUIDE Official Website (Past Papers & Practice Tests)
https://www.topikguide.com/

3) National Institute for International Education (NIIED) Official Website
http://www.niied.go.kr/