How to Prepare for TOPIK Test on Your Own While Going Through Social Distancing

The 69th Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), a Korean language test for non-native Korean speakers administered by NIIED, is postponed to the end of May due to the COVID-19 outbreak. On TOPIK’s homepage, it is announced that the test will be held on May 24th, 2020. The announcement stated that the delay applied to tests held in South Korea. But, since COVID-19 has spread globally, it may also affect the test’s schedule overseas. One of the TOPIK test organizers in Indonesia, Jakarta International Korean School (JIKS), announced that the TOPIK test would adhere to the Korean schedule. 

Not only is the TOPIK test postponed and schools closed, and businesses worldwide took a hit as governments in many countries advise self-monitoring and social distancing. While language academies do not hold on-site courses, and you have to refrain from going outside, there are some tips to keep your learning targets checked.

1. Adjust your learning schedule.

Due to the TOPIK test postponement, you will take the test after April. Whether it is in May or October depends on the test schedule in respective countries. Adjust your learning schedule to fit your other personal schedule. Remember to set reasonable goals instead of abstract objectives. 

2. Exercise on TOPIK mock tests.

You can try to exercise on TOPIK mock tests available in textbooks or use free apps that offer them. Analyze your mistakes and also your strength. Based on the information, you can create a study plan that suits your needs and get the optimal score.

3. Divide your study time into sessions.

As of 2020, the TOPIK I test comprises listening and reading tests, while the TOPIK II consists of listening, reading, and writing tests. You can divide them based on the form of tests or specifically divide them into areas you want to work on. For example, you can divide your study sessions into vocabulary, grammar, and writing. Also, note that you have to be aware of subcategories such as proverbs (속담) and four-character idioms (사자성어) that you might want to master. Use a timer to keep you away from distractions while studying.

4. Hone your Korean skills at home.

Try to enjoy various content in Korean. It can be videos, podcasts, courses, articles, and commercials. Familiarize yourself more with Korean, so you get more linguistic input other than textbooks. Take notes whenever you find something new or interesting while you enjoy learning. Discuss your learning progress or difficulties with fellow learners through online forums or chatrooms.

The world is experiencing a flu pandemic, and as a result, many activities have been put to a halt. I hope you can be productive while going through social distancing. And I hope that you can excel in the test.

*This article was initially published on Korea.net’s Honorary Reporters’ old website.