The 106th TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) was held on May 17, 2026. While you wait for results on June 25, knowing exactly where your score can be used means you can act the moment your scorecard arrives. Here is a level-by-level breakdown of every way TOPIK Levels 1 through 6 can work for you.
Key Summary
- Results date: June 25, 2026 / Score validity: 2 years from date of issue
- Levels 1–2: Qualify for a D-4 language training visa
- Level 3+: D-4 and D-2 part-time work (25 hrs/week), undergraduate admission standard, naturalization Korean language proof
- Level 4+: D-2 graduate school admission, E-7 work visa +10 pts, F-2-7 Korean language +10 pts
- Levels 5–6: E-7 +15–20 pts, F-2-7 Korean language +20 pts, possible Social Integration Program exemption
1. TOPIK Level Structure and Score Criteria
TOPIK is split into TOPIK I (Levels 1–2, max 200 pts) and TOPIK II (Levels 3–6, max 300 pts).
| Level | Score Range | Proficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 80–139 pts (TOPIK I) | Beginner |
| Level 2 | 140+ pts (TOPIK I) | Elementary–Intermediate |
| Level 3 | 120–149 pts (TOPIK II) | Intermediate |
| Level 4 | 150–189 pts (TOPIK II) | Upper Intermediate |
| Level 5 | 190–229 pts (TOPIK II) | Advanced |
| Level 6 | 230+ pts (TOPIK II) | Superior |
Note: A score of 0 on the TOPIK II writing section means no level is awarded / Score validity: 2 years from date of issue
2. D-4 Language Training Visa — From Level 1
The D-4 (General Training) visa required to enroll in a Korean language institute accepts TOPIK Level 1 or above as proof of Korean ability. However, D-4 visa holders who want to work part-time (time-restricted employment, 시간제취업) must separately hold TOPIK Level 3 or above — once approved, up to 25 hours of work per week is permitted.
- D-4 visa application: TOPIK Level 1+
- Part-time work permit (D-4): TOPIK Level 3+ → up to 25 hrs/week
- Below Level 3: part-time work is not permitted at all
3. D-2 Student Visa — The Key to University and Graduate School
For undergraduate admission at Korean universities, TOPIK Level 3+ is the common minimum. Graduate programs typically require Level 4+. Requirements vary by institution, so always confirm directly with the school you are applying to.
Part-time work rules for D-2 visa holders are also tied to TOPIK level. Associate degree and bachelor's degree students in years 1–2 need Level 3+ to work up to 25 hours per week; bachelor's degree students in years 3–4 need Level 4+ for the same allowance.
| Purpose | Required TOPIK |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate admission | Level 3+ (varies by university) |
| Graduate school admission | Level 4+ (varies by program) |
| Part-time work (yr 1–2) | Level 3+ → 25 hrs/week |
| Part-time work (yr 3–4) | Level 4+ → 25 hrs/week |
4. E-7 Work Visa — Bonus Points from Level 4
The E-7 (Designated Activities) visa uses a points-based evaluation. TOPIK scores count in the Korean language category: Level 4 = 10 pts / Level 5 = 15 pts / Level 6 = 20 pts. Because the application threshold is a total of 60 points, a strong TOPIK score greatly improves your chances of qualification.
E-7 Scoring Table — TOPIK Category
- TOPIK Level 4: 10 pts
- TOPIK Level 5: 15 pts
- TOPIK Level 6: 20 pts
- Level 3 or below: 0 pts
5. F-2-7 Resident Visa and F-5 Permanent Residency — Higher Is Better
TOPIK is equally important for the F-2-7 (Points-Based Skilled Worker Resident Visa). In the Korean language category, Level 4 earns 10 pts and Level 5+ earns 20 pts. Reaching the 80-point application threshold becomes significantly easier with an advanced TOPIK score.
For F-5 permanent residency and naturalization, TOPIK is accepted as proof of Korean language ability. Level 3+ satisfies the Korean language requirement for a naturalization application, and Level 5+ may qualify you for an exemption from the Social Integration Program (사회통합프로그램) requirement.
6. Post-Results Action Checklist
Prepare now so you are ready to move the moment June 25 results are published.
- Download your PDF scorecard from the TOPIK website (www.topik.go.kr) immediately
- Verify whether your level meets the threshold for each target university, company, or visa type
- Start preparing documents to align with 2026 second-semester university applications and visa submission windows
- If you fell short, register for the next sitting (July, September, October, or November)
- If you need an English-language scorecard, apply separately through the TOPIK Office
Frequently Asked Questions
One TOPIK preparation effort can open doors to visas, university admission, employment, and permanent residency in Korea. Even if your score this round is lower than planned, there are plenty of opportunities to retake the exam before the year is out. DODREAM is here to support you at every step — from visa applications to university enrollment and beyond.
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