What is IBT (Internet-Based Test)?
Unlike traditional paper tests (PBT), it is a test taken using a computer connected to the internet. Not only listening and reading but also writing sections are conducted on computer. It has been fully implemented since 2023 and is gradually expanding.
Background
- โ Expanding test opportunities due to increasing Korean learners worldwide
- โ Modernizing evaluation methods and improving score processing efficiency
Advantages of IBT
- โ More than 6 tests per year providing more opportunities
- โ Prevention of OMR marking errors and easy corrections (click/typing)
PBT vs IBT Comparison
| Category | PBT (Paper Test) | IBT (Internet-Based Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Test Method | Test paper + OMR card | PC + Monitor + Mouse/Keyboard |
| Listening | Central broadcast | Individual headset |
| Writing | Handwriting on manuscript paper | Keyboard typing |
| Required Items | ID, admission ticket, correction tape | ID, admission ticket (no writing tools needed) |
Grading System & Pass Criteria
TOPIK I (200 points)
| Level | Pass Score |
|---|---|
| 1 | 80+ |
| 2 | 140+ |
TOPIK II (300 points)
| Level | Pass Score |
|---|---|
| 3 | 120+ |
| 4 | 150+ |
| 5 | 190+ |
| 6 | 230+ |
2025 Test Schedule
Go to Official TOPIK Website โIBT Test Schedule
| Session | Test Date | Registration Period | Results Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBT 4 | 2025.03.22 | 2025.01.21 ~ 02.03 | 2025.04.24 |
| IBT 5 | 2025.06.21 | 2025.04.22 ~ 05.02 | 2025.07.24 |
| IBT 6 | 2025.09.20 | 2025.07.22 ~ 08.01 | 2025.10.23 |
| IBT 7 | 2025.11.22 | 2025.09.23 ~ 10.02 | 2025.12.24 |
Registration Guide
- Sign up: Visit the official TOPIK website (topik.go.kr) and register.
- Apply: Select your preferred session, test center, and level (I/II) during registration period.
- Photo upload: Upload a passport-sized photo file.
- Payment: Complete payment to confirm registration. (TOPIK I: โฉ40,000 / TOPIK II: โฉ55,000)
- Print admission ticket: Available 2 weeks before the test.
IBT Test Interface
Screen Layout
A two-column layout with passages on the left and questions on the right is the default. Remaining time and navigation buttons are located at the top.
Controls
Mouse
Used for selecting answers, navigating questions, and drag-and-drop problems.
Keyboard
Used for writing section answers. Korean/English switching and special characters are available.
Question Types
Click to select the correct answer from 4 options. Click again to deselect.
Drag options with mouse to place in blanks or arrange in order.
Type the answer directly. Character count is displayed in real-time for writing section.
โ ๏ธ Cautions
- โข Running other programs or pressing special keys (Alt+Tab, etc.) during the test may be considered cheating.
- โข Listening test uses individual headsets, so check volume beforehand.
- โข Answers are automatically submitted when time ends, so manage your time carefully.
High Score Strategies by Section
๐ง Listening Section
Focus and note-taking skills are crucial
Use the memo function actively
Although you cannot write on paper in IBT, you can use the on-screen \"memo\" function. Practice typing key keywords, numbers, and dates quickly while listening.
โ๏ธ Always note numbers, dates, and names
Read the next question in advance
Use the short time between questions to preview the next question's options. This helps predict the content.
๐ Reading options first makes it easier to grasp key points
๐ Reading Section
Accurate and fast reading comprehension is key
Get familiar with scrolling
Long passages require scrolling to see all content. Practice scanning passages quickly using mouse wheel or scrollbar.
๐ก Read long passages paragraph by paragraph to grasp key points
Time management is crucial
Check remaining time at the top regularly. Skip difficult questions boldly (use \"review later\" feature) and solve the ones you know first.
โฑ๏ธ Recommended: 1-2 minutes average per question
โ๏ธ Writing Section
Fast typing and logical structure are key
Improve your typing speed
Slow Korean typing means less thinking time. Practice to maintain at least 200-300 characters per minute.
โก Practice on typing practice websites beforehand
Plan your outline first
Rather than starting to write immediately, plan the introduction-body-conclusion structure in your head (or memo) first for logical writing.
๐ Introduction (10%) โ Body (80%) โ Conclusion (10%)
Experience the IBT environment now
Doing once is better than hearing a hundred times. Experience the real test environment with free mock tests at ibttopik.com.
Start Free Mock Test