If you’re studying Korean and want to prove your proficiency, taking the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is a clear and meaningful step forward. Whether you’re applying to a Korean university, aiming for a job in Korea, or simply want an official certificate to track your language progress, the TOPIK is the most widely recognized Korean language exam globally.
But registering for TOPIK while living outside Korea can be confusing. Information is scattered, regional processes vary, and application portals often lack clear English guidance. If you’re wondering how to register for the TOPIK exam from abroad, this guide is for you.
We’ll walk you through each step, including registration timelines, where to apply, what documents you need, and how to prepare for test day—all tailored to international test-takers in 2025.
What Is the TOPIK Exam?
TOPIK stands for Test of Proficiency in Korean and is the official Korean language test administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), under the Korean Ministry of Education.
There are two levels:
TOPIK I (Beginner) – Levels 1 and 2
TOPIK II (Intermediate to Advanced) – Levels 3 to 6
The exam tests your reading, listening, and writing skills (writing is included only in TOPIK II). It’s a paper-based test offered six times per year, though the number of test dates and available regions abroad may vary.
Step 1: Check the Official TOPIK Schedule for Overseas Exams
The first step is to visit the official TOPIK website and check the exam schedule and application dates for your country.
Official Website:
https://www.topik.go.kr
Once on the homepage:
Switch to English in the top-right corner
Go to “Test Information” → “Test Schedule”
Scroll down to the overseas exam schedule
Note:
Overseas exam dates may differ slightly from those in Korea
Not every test center offers all six annual exams—some only host 2–3 per year
You’ll also find:
Application opening and closing dates
Test day
Score release day
Countries and cities where the test is held
If your country is not listed, you may need to travel to a nearby region to take the test.
Step 2: Find the Authorized Test Center in Your Country
Unlike in Korea where registration is centralized online, overseas registration is handled individually by each designated local test center—usually through Korean cultural centers, embassies, universities, or language schools.
Common examples:
USA: Korean Cultural Centers in Washington D.C. or LA
UK: King’s College London, Korean Education Centre
Japan: Korean Education Institutions or affiliated universities
Philippines: Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC)
Go to the TOPIK website’s Contact Page and filter by your country to find the contact information and homepage of the test center.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Since each test center sets its own registration process, you’ll need to carefully follow local instructions, but most will require:
A completed application form (usually downloadable from the center’s website)
A valid passport or photo ID (scanned copy if applying by email)
A passport-style photo (often digital and physical copies)
The registration fee (varies by country and currency)
Proof of payment (bank transfer receipt or confirmation email)
You may need to apply in person or submit your documents via email or an online form, depending on the local test center’s system.
Always double-check with the test center during the registration window to confirm document format, submission method, and payment instructions.
Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee
TOPIK fees are generally set by the central organization but can vary slightly abroad based on local exchange rates or administrative costs.
Approximate fees in 2025 (USD equivalent):
TOPIK I: $35–$50
TOPIK II: $45–$65
Most centers require bank transfer, though some allow credit card or PayPal if they’ve built an online system.
Important: Don’t forget to include your full name and birthdate in the transfer description to ensure your payment is matched correctly with your application.
Step 5: Receive Your Admission Ticket
After the application deadline, the test center will email or mail your admission ticket, which includes:
Test date and time
Test center address
Assigned room and seat number
Instructions for test day (what to bring, arrival time, etc.)
Be sure to print your ticket and bring it with a valid photo ID on exam day. Some centers may allow digital copies, but printed versions are generally preferred.
Step 6: Prepare for Test Day
The exam is paper-based, so you’ll need to bring:
Your admission ticket
A valid ID (passport or national ID)
2B pencils
An eraser
Arrive at least 30–40 minutes early. Late arrivals are not admitted. Test proctors will check your ID and admission ticket before the exam begins.
TOPIK I usually takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, while TOPIK II runs for 3 hours, including short breaks.
Step 7: Check Your Results Online
Results are posted approximately 5–6 weeks after the test date. You can check them via the TOPIK website:
Go to https://www.topik.go.kr
Click “Check Results”
Enter your registration number, birthdate, and name
View your score report, level, and percentile
You can download and print your certificate, or request a printed copy from your test center if needed.
Bonus: How to Prepare for the TOPIK from Overseas
To boost your chances of success, here are some recommended resources for international learners:
TOPIK Practice Books – Available from websites like Gmarket, Yes24, or Amazon
Online Mock Tests – TOPIKGuide.com, HowtoStudyKorean.com
YouTube Channels – TOPIK KOREA, KoreanClass101, Korean Penguin
Apps – TOPIK ONE, TOPIK Test (Android/iOS), LingQ for Korean reading
Language Exchange – Use platforms like HelloTalk or Tandem to practice Korean with native speakers
If you’re targeting TOPIK II, writing practice is essential, so try to submit sample essays to native-speaking teachers or tutors for feedback.
Your Official Korean Language Journey Starts with Registration
Registering for the TOPIK exam from overseas may require a bit more coordination than doing it in Korea, but it’s entirely possible—and absolutely worth it. With more countries offering the test each year and growing support through Korean Cultural Centers, the process is becoming more accessible.
Whether you’re a university applicant, a working professional, or a casual learner aiming to track your progress, the TOPIK is more than just a certificate—it’s a bridge to new opportunities in Korea and beyond.
Check your country’s next registration window, gather your documents early, and take the next step in your Korean language journey with confidence.