TOPIK exam day: what to expect and bring

I just took my first TOPIK II exam last weekend and I want to share what the experience was like for fellow first-timers.

What to bring: Passport or ARC (they check ID strictly), admission ticket (print it from TOPIK website), correction tape (수정테이프 - erasers are NOT allowed for the answer sheet!), black pen for writing section, and a watch (phones must be turned off).

The schedule: Arrive by 9:00 AM. First session (듣기 + 쓰기) is 9:30-11:20. Lunch break. Second session (읽기) is 12:20-1:30. The whole thing takes about 5 hours including waiting time.

Surprises: The listening audio played from speakers, not headphones. The room was cold (bring a jacket). The desks were small. They were VERY strict about cheating - even looking sideways gets a warning.

My biggest advice: Get a good night's sleep. Eat a proper breakfast. And DON'T cram the night before - it doesn't help and only makes you tired. Trust your preparation!