Here is an interesting fact about South Korea: the country is a powerhouse in Olympic archery and swept all five archery gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The country is also known for its rich culture, world-renowned universities, strong economy, delicious food like kimchi, and vibrant energy.
Additionally, South Korea offers many scholarships for international students to pursue different programs in the country. These aspects make South Korea a popular destination for international students. However, depending on the university, department, and language of instruction, international students may need to demonstrate proficiency in Korean or English before being accepted into a Korean university.
If you are looking for the language tests needed in South Korea for international students and how to best prepare for them, this comprehensive article is for you. Let us dive in!
Language Proficiency Tests Needed in South Korea
To meet the minimum language requirements as an international student, you may need to take a Korean language or English language test. Korean-taught programs commonly ask for Korean proficiency, while English-taught programs commonly ask for English proficiency. Requirements vary by university and department, so always check the current admissions guide for your chosen program.
Here are the language tests needed in South Korea for international students:
Korean Language Tests for International Students
Korean language tests assess international students’ ability to understand and communicate in Korean. The two Korean proficiency tests you may see most often are the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) and the Korean Language Ability Test (KLAT). Some universities may also accept completion certificates from approved Korean language institutes or their own placement tests.
1. Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK)
TOPIK is managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under Korea’s Ministry of Education. It is designed for non-native speakers of Korean, including international students who plan to study at Korean universities.
TOPIK I covers Levels 1 and 2 and includes listening and reading. TOPIK II covers Levels 3 to 6 and includes listening, writing, and reading. TOPIK Speaking is a separate test. For TOPIK I, Level 1 requires at least 80 points and Level 2 requires at least 140 points out of 200. For TOPIK II, Level 3 requires at least 120 points, Level 4 at least 150 points, Level 5 at least 190 points, and Level 6 at least 230 points out of 300. TOPIK results are generally valid for two years from the score announcement date.
For Korean-taught programs, many universities expect applicants to submit TOPIK scores, often around Level 3 or higher, but the required level varies by university, department, and degree level. For example, Seoul National University’s 2026 international admissions guides list TOPIK or TOPIK IBT Level 3, or completion of Level 4 at a Korean university language center, as Korean-language proof for many international applicants. Other universities may set different rules or allow English-language proof for English-taught programs.
Many universities in South Korea accept TOPIK. Examples include Seoul National University, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Korea University, and Yonsei University, among others. Always confirm the latest requirement on the university’s official admissions page before applying.
2. Korean Language Ability Test (KLAT)
KLAT, formerly known as the Korean Language Proficiency Test, is operated by the Korea Educational Testing Service (KETS). It is designed to assess practical Korean communication ability for non-native speakers. KLAT has different levels, including introductory, novice, intermediate, and advanced tests, with grades that generally correspond to increasing Korean proficiency.
Depending on the level, KLAT scores are reported on 200-point or 300-point scales. KETS states that KLAT score reports are valid for 30 months after the test date.
Some Korean university programs or exchange and visiting student tracks may accept KLAT. For example, Yonsei University’s study abroad and visiting student information lists KLAT Level 4 or TOPIK Level 4 as Korean proficiency proof for certain tracks. However, KLAT is not accepted by every university or program, so you should check the current admissions page of your chosen institution.
English Language Tests for International Students
English language tests verify that your English skills are at the required level and that you can communicate with professors and classmates effectively in English-taught programs. The most common English language tests needed in South Korea are the IELTS, the TOEFL, and, where accepted, the Duolingo English Test.
1. IELTS – International English Language Testing System
The International English Language Testing System is one of the most widely used English language tests for non-native English speakers. It evaluates English skills like listening, reading, speaking, and writing. IELTS uses band scores from 0 to 9, and institutions set their own minimum scores.
IELTS requirements vary by university and program. Some Korean universities or programs may accept an IELTS score around 5.5, while others require 6.0, 6.5, or higher. For example, Seoul National University’s 2026 international admissions guide lists IELTS Academic 6.0 as one English proficiency option, while Hanyang University’s 2026 guide lists higher or lower minimums depending on the English-track program. Always check the current admissions guide for your exact program.
Some universities that accept IELTS include Pohang University of Science and Technology and Pusan National University, among others.
2. TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
The Test of English as a Foreign Language assesses academic English skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Its focus on academic English makes it a common option for universities and other higher education institutions to evaluate potential international students.
TOEFL scoring changed in 2026. For tests taken on or after January 21, 2026, TOEFL iBT score reports use a 1–6 scale in half-point increments and provide comparable 0–120 scores during a transition period. For tests taken before that date, universities commonly used the 0–120 TOEFL iBT total score. Because many university guides may still show older score requirements during the transition, applicants should confirm whether the listed requirement applies to the old 0–120 scale, the new 1–6 scale, or both.
Some universities that accept TOEFL include University of Seoul, Korea University, and Hanyang University. Minimum scores vary by program. For example, Seoul National University’s 2026 guide lists TOEFL iBT 80 as one English proof option, while KAIST and Hanyang University list different minimums for certain programs or tracks.
3. DET – Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is an online English language test that may be accepted by some universities as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL. It is convenient because students can take it online with a computer and webcam. The test evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in English.
Duolingo English Test scores are reported on a 10–160 scale, and results are valid for two years. Duolingo also publishes score comparison resources for institutions, but score comparisons are only guides. Each university decides whether it accepts the Duolingo English Test and what score it requires. Before taking the DET for a Korean university application, confirm that your university and department list it as an accepted English proficiency test.
Language tests needed in South Korea for international students vary according to the university, program, degree level, and language of instruction. If you are an incoming international student, you should check the latest official admissions guide for each program so that you know which test to take and what score you need.
We hope this article on the Language Tests Needed in South Korea For International Students is informative and helpful. You can also visit the Available Programs for International Students and Study in Korea!
