Overview
Jeongbo Cheori Gisa (정보처리기사, Engineer Information Processing) is a South Korean National Technical Qualification in the information technology field, run by HRD Korea through Q-Net. It certifies competence in software development, databases, system design and IT project fundamentals, and is one of the most widely held technical qualifications among Korean IT and computer science students and professionals.
Who can apply
As a Gisa (Engineer)-level qualification, eligibility is based on education and/or experience: candidates typically qualify through a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a related field, an associate degree with additional relevant experience, or enough years of relevant IT work experience without a related degree.
Exam pattern
The written exam (필기시험) covers software design, data structures and databases, programming languages, information systems, and IT project management/security fundamentals. The practical exam (실기시험) is a written, problem-solving paper covering applied programming, database and system-design tasks rather than live coding at a computer. Candidates must pass the written exam before attempting the practical exam.
Marking and results
Both components are marked out of 100, with a pass typically requiring at least 60 points overall alongside a minimum per-subject threshold on the written paper.
How to apply
Candidates confirm their eligibility and register for exam sessions through Q-Net, choosing an exam date and centre.
FAQs
Is the practical exam hands-on coding at a computer?
No. The practical exam is a written, problem-solving paper covering applied programming, database and systems-design tasks, not live coding.
Who typically takes this qualification?
Mainly computer science and IT students, and working IT professionals in Korea, as a widely recognised credential in software and information systems.