Overview
EPS-TOPIK is the Korean language test for foreign workers who want a job in South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS). It is run by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea (HRD Korea). HRD Korea states two aims: to check the Korean language level of foreign job seekers and their understanding of Korean society, and so to help workers settle into life in Korea. The result is used as an objective criterion for choosing from the list of foreign job seekers.
Who can apply
HRD Korea lists these conditions for applicants.
Age 18 to 39.
No criminal record.
No past deportation from South Korea.
No immigration restriction (a ground for disqualification).
Not more than five years in Korea on an E-9 visa, on an E-10 visa, or on both combined.
Tests are organised country by country, so check the schedule listed for your own country.
Exam pattern
The test has two sections of 20 multiple-choice questions each, with 50 minutes in total and 100 points.
| Section | Questions | Time | What it covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading | 20 | 25 minutes | Describing objects and situations, vocabulary and grammar, practical information, explanatory texts, safety signs |
| Listening | 20 | 25 minutes | Sounds and words, sentences, descriptions, conversations and short stories, answered after a recording |
Both sections also touch on Korean culture and on occupational safety and health. The test uses a computer-based format, listed on the official site as CBT.
Syllabus
The content focuses on daily communication in Korea, Korean used in workplaces, and understanding of Korean business culture. HRD Korea also posts self-study e-books, with PDF downloads, on its site, including versions for English users and for Sri Lankan learners.
Marking and results
Selection is by relative evaluation, not a fixed pass mark. For each industry there is a lowest qualifying score, and candidates above it are chosen in order of score up to the number of places expected. A higher score therefore improves your position on the roster.
Important dates
Dates are set per country and per round. On the official schedule page at the time of this review, the Laos entries showed a registration period of 7 to 11 September 2026, while the test date and result date were still marked undecided. The Philippines and Sri Lanka entries were undecided on every date. Rely on the page for your country.
How to apply
Registration is handled per country and can be in person or online, using an application form. Bring the application card and your passport or ID card to the test, plus pens. The name and date of birth must match your passport, or you may be refused entry. A passport-sized photo (3.5 by 4.5 cm, taken within six months) and a copy of your passport or ID go with the application. The fee is refunded in full if you cancel during the registration period. Mobile phones, PDAs and electronic dictionaries are not allowed in the test room.
After the exam
Successful candidates are chosen by the criteria described under Marking and results. Anyone caught cheating cannot take the test for two years.
Preparation tips
Use the self-study e-books on the official site, since the test is built on workplace and daily-life Korean.
Learn safety signs and common safety vocabulary, which are tested in reading.
Practise listening to short conversations and picture descriptions, since the listening section is answered after a recording.
Is there a pass mark for EPS-TOPIK?
There is no single fixed pass mark. HRD Korea uses relative evaluation, with a lowest qualifying score per industry and selection in order of merit within the expected number of places.
How long is the test?
50 minutes: 25 minutes for 20 reading questions and 25 minutes for 20 listening questions.