How do I take the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) exam?

You can register for TOPIK at the official website topik.go.kr. The test is divided into TOPIK I for beginners (levels 1 to 2) and TOPIK II for intermediate to advanced (levels 3 to 6). Tests are held about 6 times a year in Korea and the registration period is short so check the schedule early. The fee is about 40,000 won.

For study strategies, past exam papers are the single most helpful resource. You can download them for free from the official TOPIK website, and the TOPIK ONE app lets you practice with past questions on your phone. For listening, immerse yourself in Korean media daily through dramas, YouTube, and podcasts. For reading, practice with timed exercises since speed matters a lot on the test. The writing section in TOPIK II is where many people lose points, so practice structured essay writing using Seoul National University Korean textbooks for grammar patterns. Many Korean language institutes called 한국어학당 also offer TOPIK preparation courses. On test day bring your ARC or passport and your admission ticket. Results come out about a month later on the website.