The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is an internationally recognized exam that assesses the Korean language skills of non-native speakers. It is widely used for academic admissions, employment opportunities, and immigration purposes. The test is divided into two levels: TOPIK I (beginner level) and TOPIK II (intermediate to advanced level). Each level has specific passing scores, ranging from Level 1 (basic proficiency) to Level 6 (near-native fluency). The TOPIK exam evaluates listening, reading, and writing skills, with multiple-choice and subjective questions. Understanding the passing score criteria is essential for test-takers aiming to achieve their desired certification level.

TOPIK Levels and Passing Marks

The TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) exam consists of two levels: TOPIK I (beginner level) and TOPIK II (intermediate-advanced level). Your TOPIK level is determined based on your total score in the test.

Test Level: TOPIK I and TOPIK II

The TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is divided into two levels:

1. TOPIK I (Beginner Level) – This level is for beginners and consists of Listening and Reading sections. It has two sublevels: Level 1 and Level 2. The maximum score is 200 points.
2. TOPIK II (Intermediate-Advanced Level) – This level includes Listening, Reading, and Writing sections. It has four sublevels: Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, and Level 6. The maximum score is 300 points.

Evaluation Grades: 6 Levels (1 to 6)

Below are the passing scores for each TOPIK level:  Important Points:

• You can appear for TOPIK II directly without taking TOPIK I.
• Your score in individual sections does not matter; your final level and pass/fail status are determined based on your total score.

Minimum Scores Required to Qualify for Each TOPIK Level

The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is divided into two levels, each with its own grading criteria. The passing score is based on the total marks obtained, and candidates are assigned a level accordingly. Below is a detailed explanation of the minimum scores required for each level:

📌 TOPIK I (Beginner Level) – Total 200 Marks

This level is designed for basic Korean learners who are just starting to understand the language. It consists of two sublevels:

1. Level 1 (초급 1급) – Minimum Score: 80/200
   
   
   • Candidates should be able to carry out basic conversations required for daily life, such as self-introduction, ordering food, shopping, etc.
   • Basic vocabulary knowledge (around 800 words) and simple sentence structures.
2. Level 2 (초급 2급) – Minimum Score: 140/200
   
   
   • Should be able to handle routine conversations like asking for help, making phone calls, or using public transport.
   • Expected to know 1,500–2,000 words and have a better understanding of Korean grammar.
   • Able to distinguish between formal and informal speech based on the situation.

📌 TOPIK II (Intermediate-Advanced Level) – Total 300 Marks

This level is for those who need Korean language skills for work, academic, or professional settings. It consists of four sublevels:

1. Level 3 (중급 3급) – Minimum Score: 120/300
   
   
   • Candidates should be able to use Korean in social situations, such as discussing general topics and understanding daily conversations.
   • Can read and comprehend simple articles, advertisements, and formal documents.
   • Expected to use Korean for daily work and interaction in public places.
2. Level 4 (중급 4급) – Minimum Score: 150/300
   
   
   • Should be able to engage in discussions on familiar topics, such as personal experiences, hobbies, and work.
   • Able to read and understand simple news articles and academic content.
   • Expected to communicate effectively in formal and semi-formal settings.
3. Level 5 (고급 5급) – Minimum Score: 190/300
   
   
   • Candidates should be able to read and comprehend complex texts, including newspaper articles and professional documents.
   • Expected to write essays and reports on given topics.
   • Should be comfortable with work-related discussions, presentations, and debates.
4. Level 6 (고급 6급) – Minimum Score: 230/300
   
   
   • This is the highest level of proficiency, equivalent to a near-native speaker.
   • Candidates should be able to understand and express ideas fluently in Korean, even in complex and abstract topics.
   • Able to participate in academic research, professional meetings, and high-level discussions without difficulty.
   • Expected to use advanced expressions, idioms, and cultural references appropriately.

📌 Important Notes on TOPIK Scoring:

✅ You can take TOPIK II directly without appearing for TOPIK I.
✅ Your individual section scores (Listening, Reading, Writing) do not impact your level – only the total score matters.
✅ The passing marks vary depending on the level you aim for, so strategic preparation is essential.

Would you like me to add study tips for achieving higher scores? 😊

Question Composition by TOPIK Level

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