TOPIK Level 4 – How long does it take to achieve this level?

TOPIK Level 4 represents an upper-intermediate proficiency in Korean, allowing learners to understand newspapers, social issues, and everyday conversations with ease. It’s the level most universities and companies in Korea require for admission or employment. On average, it takes about 12 to 18 months of consistent study to reach TOPIK 4, depending on your learning pace and environment. 
 

How long does it take to achieve this level?

TOPIK Level 4 – An important milestone for Korean learners

TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is an assessment that evaluates the ability of candidates to use the Korean language, organized annually by the National Institute for International Education of South Korea. The TOPIK is divided into two categories:

• TOPIK I: For beginner levels (TOPIK 1 and TOPIK 2)
• TOPIK II: For intermediate and advanced levels (TOPIK 3, 4, 5, 6).

TOPIK 4 certification represents an intermediate level, indicating that the candidate can communicate effectively in Korean across various life, study, and work situations. Specifically, achieving TOPIK 4 means you can comprehend and utilize intermediate grammar structures and communicate confidently and flexibly in everyday interactions.

TOPIK Level 4

What is TOPIK Level 4?

The proficiency of Korean language learners is assessed through the TOPIK exam, which is held annually by the National Institute for International Education of South Korea. Among the six levels of the TOPIK certificate, TOPIK level 4 is classified as intermediate. Therefore, achieving TOPIK level 4 indicates that one possesses a good command of the Korean language and may have advanced knowledge as well.

So, how long does it take to study for TOPIK level 4? Given the rigorous standards, learners must be prepared to invest a significant amount of time in developing their skills. The duration also depends on the preparation process for TOPIK level 4 and the individual’s capacity to learn. 

If you combine factors such as a detailed study plan, comprehensive study materials, guidance from instructors, and a proactive study attitude, the average time needed to reach TOPIK level 4 would be around 15 months.

TOPIK Level 4 exam structure

TOPIK Level 4 belongs to TOPIK II, including 3 main test sections:

The total duration of the TOPIK II test is 180 minutes (3 hours).

The maximum score is 300 points, with 100 points for each section: Listening, Reading, and Writing.

Why should you achieve TOPIK Level 4?

• Regarding knowledge: One can perform essential language functions required in various public infrastructure settings and maintain social relationships, while also meeting specific job requirements in specialized fields. Additionally, there is an ability to comprehend socio-cultural topics based on an understanding of Korean culture along with idioms and proverbs.
• Regarding job opportunities: With a TOPIK 4 certification in Korean, individuals can work in Korean companies and earn significantly higher salaries compared to peers in the same position who do not possess TOPIK 4 language proficiency.
• Regarding study abroad opportunities: Those who achieve TOPIK Level 4 or higher can apply for a D2 visa to study in South Korea in undergraduate or master’s programs, bypassing the two-year preparatory language course required for other students.

 

Why should you achieve TOPIK Level 4

How long does it take to get TOPIK 4?

The time needed to reach TOPIK Level 4 varies depending on your starting point, study habits, and learning environment. On average, most learners need 12 to 18 months of consistent and focused study to achieve this level. However, the exact duration differs for beginners and those with prior knowledge of Korean.

• For complete beginners:

If you’re starting from zero, it typically takes about 1,000–1,200 study hours, which equals 12–18 months of steady learning. This includes building a strong foundation in vocabulary and grammar, improving listening and reading skills, and practicing writing essays for the TOPIK exam.

• For learners with TOPIK 2–3 level:

Those who already have a basic to intermediate background can reach TOPIK 4 within 4–6 months of focused preparation. At this stage, the main goal is to strengthen writing and comprehension skills while familiarizing yourself with the test format and question types.

Estimated Time to Reach TOPIK Level 4

 

How many points to pass TOPIK Level 4?

TOPIK II (TOPIK 3–6) scores are determined as follows:

To pass TOPIK Level 4, you need a minimum of 150 out of 300 points. At this level, test-takers can communicate naturally in everyday and workplace situations. You are able to read and understand newspapers and general documents, as well as write intermediate-level paragraphs and essays. This level demonstrates a solid and independent command of the Korean language.

Tips for taking the Topik 4 test to get a high score

Achieving the Topik 4 certification isn't overly difficult; with diligent effort, a strategic study plan, and a good grasp of exam techniques, you can definitely reach Topik 4. Let's explore some helpful tips from Alpha that can assist you in scoring high on the Topik exam!

For the Listening test

The Listening section requires you to process information quickly and accurately within a short time frame. To score well, keep in mind:

• If you have time, quickly skim through the questions in the test to grasp the main ideas, which will help you select the correct answers more efficiently while listening.
• When the listening material begins, focus intently to catch key words, and once you have confidently chosen the correct answer, swiftly move on to read the next question.

For the Listening test

For the Reading section

The Reading portion of the Topik exam is arranged from easy to difficult, so it's important to keep this strategy in mind:

• Tackle the easier questions first and save the more challenging ones for later. Do not underestimate the simple questions; take your time to ensure you score well on them.
• If you encounter a question that seems too difficult, skip it and move on to the next one to avoid wasting too much time. Once you've completed all the questions, if you still have time left, go back to those you skipped.

For the Writing test

For the Writing section, there will be 4 questions from question 51 to question 54. Here’s what you need to focus on for each question:

Question 51: This question typically revolves around topics like emails, letters, and messages. The vocabulary and content are quite simple, so there’s no need to worry too much. Just read carefully, think thoroughly, and write a sentence that fits well.

Question 52: This question is more challenging than question 51, focusing on life knowledge and a short passage. To do well in question 52, make sure to read the sentences before and after the blank closely, as the answer might be found within the provided content.

Question 53: This question involves commenting on a chart. There will be a template available for you to follow; just base your observations on that template to respond appropriately to each prompt.

Question 54: To perform well on this question, pay attention to using intermediate to advanced vocabulary and grammar as much as possible. However, if you're uncertain about grammar, you can use basic vocabulary and grammar to avoid losing points. Try to include relevant idioms and sayings to impress the examiner.

Recommended Courses & Materials for TOPIK Level 4

Recommended Books for TOPIK Level 4 Preparation

To prepare effectively, choose high-quality textbooks that are trusted by many candidates:

 

Topik level 4 practice book

Download the book here

TOPIK Exam Papers and Practice Materials

The TOPIK exam papers and practice materials are essential resources to help you prepare effectively for the test.

First, the official TOPIK past exams (기출문제) include real test papers from 2014–2024 with detailed answer keys, allowing learners to get familiar with the test format and difficulty level.

Download TOPIK past exams here

The official TOPIK past exams (기출문제) are the most effective materials to master the test format and improve your skills.

• Get familiar with real question types and timing.
• Helps you assess your level and identify weaknesses.
• Includes detailed answers and explanations for every section.
• Covers frequent vocabulary and grammar patterns in actual exams.
• Builds confidence and quick response skills for the real test.

Tips for learning Korean through films, music, and podcasts

In addition to studying with books and courses, incorporate real Korean language sources to enhance your language reflexes:

• Watch Korean movies with Korean subtitles: take notes on sentence structures and natural vocabulary.
• Listen to K-pop music or podcasts: practice identifying key words and intonation.
• Follow Korean language learning YouTube channels: such as YTN Easy Korean or KoreanClass101 to get familiar with natural speech.

Quick tip: Spend 20-30 minutes daily listening to or watching Korean content to rapidly improve your listening skills and vocabulary retention.

Free Study Materials & Download

In addition to books and courses, you can download TOPIK Level 4 study materials for self-study and daily practice tests.

These materials typically include:

• A collection of key vocabulary and grammar points featured in TOPIK II.
• Actual exam papers and practice tests with detailed answers.
• Samples of TOPIK writing exercises (writing section) to help you articulate effectively for high scores.
• PDF flashcards for quick and easy vocabulary learning.

Here are some sample test download links

Achieving TOPIK Level 4 is completely within reach if you follow the right study plan and stay consistent. On average, learners need about 12 to 18 months to reach this level — a realistic goal for anyone serious about learning Korean. If you’re looking for a reliable place to start, Migii offers structured courses, mock tests, and personalized study plans to help you achieve your goal faster.