South Korea Extends Language Test Score Validity to 5 Years for Job Applicants

Job seekers in South Korea will soon benefit from an extended validity period for their official language test scores. The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC) has recommended that government agencies link their systems to allow registered scores to be used for up to five years.

Currently, applicants for public sector jobs and national professional qualification exams must re-register their language test scores, such as TOEIC, TOEFL, and TEPS, with each institution. This process is often repeated even if the scores are still valid within their standard two-year period. The proposed system linkage aims to eliminate this redundant registration.

This reform is expected to significantly ease the financial and practical burdens on individuals preparing for public service and professional certification exams. By allowing a single registration to be recognized across multiple agencies for up to five years, the ACRC's recommendation streamlines the application process and reduces the need for repeated testing.