Korean Language Test (EPS-TOPIK) Application Open 2023

The Government of Nepal and the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security have issued an important notice for Nepali citizens seeking employment in the Republic of Korea. This comes under the Employment Permit System (EPS), a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Labor and Employment of Korea. The aim is to select candidates for manufacturing roles in Korea through a Korean Language Test, known as EPS-TOPIK.

Key Details of the Examination Process

1. Exam Dates:

   • Language Test (EPS-TOPIK, UBT Language Test, 1st Round):
     • The test is scheduled for Monday, 22nd January 2080, corresponding to 5th February 2024. Further details about the exam date will be released closer to the event.
   • Skill Test (2nd Round):
     • This will follow the publication of the Language Test results. Only those with the highest scores in their respective fields in the first round will qualify for this stage.

2. Examination Structure:

   • The language test will be conducted in four shifts in a single day.
   • In case of a high number of applicants, the test may be split into two stages: first and second.

3. Eligibility and Registration:

   • Interested and eligible Nepali citizens are requested to register for the EPS-TOPIK as per the guidelines provided by the HRD Service of Korea.

Importance for Applicants

This notice is crucial for individuals aiming to work in manufacturing in Korea. Understanding the Korean language is not only a requirement but a significant step in ensuring effective communication and job performance in Korea. The EPS-TOPIK serves as a gateway for skilled labor from Nepal to enter the Korean workforce, highlighting the importance of language proficiency in international employment opportunities.

Application Process and Eligibility Criteria

1. Field of Application:

   • The focus is on the manufacturing sector.
   • Candidates who pass all stages of testing, including a health check, can proceed to job application.

2. Test Components:

   • Language Test (EPS-TOPIK Language Test).
   • Skill Test and Competency Test.
   • The final selection will be based on the highest scores among approximately 15,848 candidates.

3. Application Registration:

   • Dates: From 18th to 22nd December 2023.
   • Process: Complete the exam application online at https://eoers.epsnepal.gov.np.
   • Required Documents:
     • Scanned color image of the passport's bio page.
     • A recent passport-sized photograph with specific dimensions and file requirements.
     • Applicants must provide their email address and mobile number.

4. Exam Conducting Details:

   • Location: UBT Building, Bhaisepati.
   • Candidates must attend a biometric registration at the EPS office in Gwarko one day before the exam and arrive at the exam hall two hours early.

5. Applicant Eligibility:

   • Age between 18 and 39 years (born between 19th December 1983 and 18th December 2005).
   • No criminal record.
   • Not previously deported from Korea for illegal activities.
   • Stay in Korea on E-9 and E-10 visas should be less than five years.
   • No color blindness, color weakness, or amputations of disk and fingers.
   • Not having applied for the EPS-TOPIK exam within the year 2023.

6. Examination Fee Details

• Fee Amount: The examination fee is set at USD 28.
• Currency Conversion: The fee in Nepali Rupees will be based on the exchange rate determined by Nepal Rastra Bank a day before the registration.
• Payment Method: Payment should be made online during the form registration process. The payment system will be integrated into the application portal at https://eoers.epsnepal.gov.np.

7. Exam System and Marks Weightage

• Exam Structure:
  • Reading Section: 20 questions, 100 marks, 50 minutes.
  • Listening Section: 20 questions, 100 marks, 50 minutes.
  • Total: 40 questions, 100 marks, 50 minutes.
• Nature of Examination: The EPS-TOPIK will be an objective multiple-choice test without any break between the Reading and Listening sections.

8. Industries and Subcategories

• Applicants are given the choice to select from the following subcategories under the Manufacturing sector:
  1. Assemble
  2. Measure
  3. Join
• Selection Process: Passing the Korean language test places candidates on the roster for employment selection. However, it does not guarantee 100% employment. Candidates are advised to continue with their current professions or businesses until further notice.

Additional Information

• This notice was also published in a daily newspaper on the date corresponding to 2080-08-19.

Advice for Candidates

Applicants should note the exam fee and ensure they have the necessary funds ready for payment. The structure and weightage of the exam underline the importance of being well-prepared in both reading and listening skills. Choosing the right subcategory aligns with individual skills and career aspirations in the manufacturing sector. It’s crucial for applicants to understand that while passing the EPS-TOPIK is an important step, it does not automatically lead to employment.