KIIP stages and Korean requirements
KIIP runs from Stage 0 to Stage 5. Stages 1–4 are Korean language and culture classes; Stage 5 is Understanding Korean Society. You take a pre-test first, and that decides which stage you start at.
The stages
| Stage | Content | Rough level |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 0 | Basic Korean | Hangul, basic phrases |
| Stage 1 | Beginner 1 | ~ TOPIK Level 1 |
| Stage 2 | Beginner 2 | ~ TOPIK Level 2 |
| Stage 3 | Intermediate 1 | ~ TOPIK Level 3 |
| Stage 4 | Intermediate 2 | ~ TOPIK Level 4 |
| Stage 5 | Understanding Korean Society (basic / advanced) | Residency / naturalisation |
The pre-test and TOPIK links
When you start KIIP you take a pre-test. Your score decides your starting stage. People who already hold a TOPIK grade may be placed at the matching stage or exempted from some stages (check the current linking rules).
Why do KIIP?
- Meets the Korean and society requirements for permanent residency (F-5) and naturalisation
- Accepted as the Korean requirement for E-7-4 instead of TOPIK
- A structured curriculum to follow
Class places are limited by region, so there can be competition to enrol. Applications are made at socinet.go.kr.
Stage structure, hours, assessments and TOPIK linking can change. Check socinet.go.kr for the latest.