TOPIK and your Korean learning roadmap

For most GKS applications TOPIK is not a mandatory entry requirement — you can apply with zero Korean. However, it materially improves your profile, some Korean-taught departments set a minimum level, and applicants holding TOPIK Level 5 or above may be exempted from the one-year language training and placed directly into their degree.

Department-level language minimums are set in the University Information file, not the main guideline. Check both.

• King Sejong Institute online (Sejong Hakdang) — free structured courses
• Study in Korea and TOPIK official past papers released by NIIED
• KBS World and Talk To Me In Korean free tracks for listening
• Korean Cultural Centre India classes and events

• Sejong Korean and Ewha Korean series for structured grammar
• Korean Grammar in Use (Beginning / Intermediate / Advanced)
• Complete Guide to the TOPIK for exam strategy
• Anki or Memrise for spaced-repetition vocabulary
• Naver Dictionary and Papago for daily reading support

• TOPIK is administered in India in select cities including Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad in most sittings
• Registration happens online through the official TOPIK portal and fills quickly
• Sittings are limited per year — plan at least two attempts inside your 18-month roadmap
• Score validity is two years; ensure it remains valid on the application deadline

Test cities and dates change per sitting. Confirm on the official TOPIK announcement and with the Korean Education Centre in India.

• Level 5 or 6 holders may be exempted from the one-year language training
• Scholars achieving Level 5 or 6 during the scholarship receive an additional monthly reward
• Scholars must reach the required TOPIK level to progress from language training into their degree