EPS-TOPIK Guide
Employment Permit System - Test of Proficiency in Korean
A comprehensive guide to the EPS-TOPIK exam for foreign workers seeking employment in South Korea
What is EPS-TOPIK?
The Employment Permit System – Test of Proficiency in Korean (EPS-TOPIK) is a language proficiency test that evaluates the Korean language skills of foreign workers who wish to apply for employment in South Korea through the Employment Permit System (EPS). The test ensures that potential foreign employees can perform their duties efficiently and lead their daily lives in Korea without language problems.
Test Structure
Listening
Tests comprehension of spoken Korean in workplace and daily life contexts
Reading
Tests comprehension of written Korean including signs, notices, and instructions
Total: 50 questions, 70 minutes, 200 points
Eligibility Requirements
- Age between 18 and 39 years old
- No criminal record for serious offenses
- No past records of deportation from South Korea
- Not subject to travel ban in home country
- No active EPS job roster
- Normal color vision
- Less than 5 years total stay in Korea under E-9 or E-10 visa
- No records of illegal entry, overstay, or runaway in Korea
Application Process
Online Registration
Register through your country's designated agency (e.g., POEA/DMW for Philippines) during specified dates
Document Preparation
Prepare passport bio-page scan (JPG, 600x400px, <100KB) and ID photo (3.5x4.5cm, white background, 14-15KB)
Pay Test Fee
Pay the test fee of approximately US$24 through the online payment system
Take the Test
Attend the test on the scheduled date at your designated test center
Receive Results
Check your test results online after the announcement date
Scoring & Passing
Passing Score: 80 points or higher (out of 200)
Score Validity: 2 years from test date
Passing the EPS-TOPIK grants eligibility to apply for jobs in Korea but does not guarantee employment.
After Passing
- 1Submit job application form to your country's Sending Agency within 2 years
- 2Register in the job roster system
- 3Wait for job matching with Korean employers
- 4Complete employment procedures if selected
- 5Obtain E-9 (non-professional employment) visa