61th TOPIK Exam-taking Experience in Nov 2018

18 Nov 2018

The day I had been waiting for finally arrived. I was going to take my first ever Test of Proficiency in Korean(TOPIK) in Singapore! This day finally came after 2 to 3 months of studying and trying out past year test papers with my Korean teacher.

What is TOPIK? 

It is an international proficiency test in Korean. There are 6 levels from 1 to 6. Some Korean universities require foreign applicants to attain at least level 4 or 5 to enter universities such as Seoul National University, Yonsei University etc.

TOPIK I allows applicants to attain Level 1 or 2 qualification. TOPIK II allows applicants to attain Level 3 to 6.

Passing marks

TOPIK I: Out of 200 points:
Level 1- Attain 80 points
Level 2- Attain 140 points

TOPIK II: Out of 300 points:
Level 3- Attain 120 points
Level 4- Attain 150 points
Level 5- Attain 190 points
Level 6- Attain 230 points

Credits and for more information about which components are tested, do check out the useful TOPIK Guide here: https://www.topikguide.com/topik-overview/

The Experience 

As I was going to take the TOPIK II test, we had to reach the bus stop opposite the Nexus in time to take the shuttle bus service at 11am, 11.15am or 11.30am to proceed to the Singapore Korean International School. Glad that they provided this complimentary service as the school is very very far inside and it would be confusing to navigate if someone is sending you there. It is about 10 mins' drive from the opposite The Nexus bus stop.

Candidates needed to arrive their respective exam halls by 11.50am otherwise they would not be allowed to take the exam. You are essentially wasting your money if you choose not to turn up. Why though? Unless you have an emergency, I cannot comprehend why the candidate beside me didn't turn up.

You are allowed to place your bag beside your chair or under the table or chair. On your table, you will spot a sticker with your registration number on the top left corner. There will also be a special TOPIK marker to use to write your answers. The thinner tip is used for the writing component (쓰기) while the thicker tip is for you to shade your answers for listening(듣기) and reading(읽기) , similar to an OAS answer sheet to shade your MCQ answers. Don't fret if you want to change your answers after writing. Simply use a correction tape to correct your answers. If you happen not to have it, raise your hand and ask for it from the examiners.

They are also very strict about usage of electronic devices. Hence, the examiners will go around collecting smartphones, smart watches etc and paste a sticker with your registration number on your devices.

Remember to bring your printed TOPIK registration form which will be sent to your email and identification documents(NRIC, driving license or Ezlink card with your photo). The examiners will check these details like your photo and spelling of your name before the exam.

What to write on the answer sheet

The different components have different answer sheets. You need to write your English and if applicable, your Korean name, write and shade your registration number. The examiner will then chop a stamp on your answer sheets during the exam to ensure you have filled in your relevant details.

During the exam

- Manage your time well
- Announcements will be made at fixed time intervals when there are 5 minutes left etc.


What to take note

- Not a must, but you can bring stationery if you want. They will provide the special marker pen that you will use to shade or write or your answer sheets. However, I recommend you to bring along a correction tape in case you need to amend your answers. Otherwise, you can borrow a correction tape from the examiners but it will cause you to waste some time. You can also bring pencils, eraser and pens if you want to jot down notes on your question paper.

- If you are taking the TOPIK II exam, the examiners most likely will speak to you in Korean. 가방에 넣어주세요. Please put it in your bag.

- Arrive early or on time for the exam, otherwise, you'll not be allowed to take the exam

- At the first level where you alight from, there will be papers pasted with which classroom you are assigned to and a map of where the venues are.

- There is a short break (about 30mins) in between the 1st part of TOPIK II and 2nd part.

- You can eat or drink during your break. Buy food like buns or biscuits to satiate your hunger as the canteen is not open.

- During the listening component, they will turn off the fans so that you can hear the audio loud and clear.

Remember to stay calm and be on time. Revising and practising thoroughly before the test also makes you more prepared during the test.

All the best and drop a comment below if you have any questions regarding the test!

Cheers,
Glissie

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