History
When the National Technical Qualification system launched in 1973, the Engineer grade was split into Class 1 and Class 2. The 1990s reforms made Class 1 today's Engineer grade. It is the main credential for university-trained engineers. Its 100-plus fields include Information Processing, Electrical, Architecture, Civil, Industrial Safety, and Big Data Analysis.
Eligibility and exams
Candidates qualify with a related four-year degree (final-year students can apply), Industrial Engineer plus one year of experience, Craftsman plus three years, or four years of related work. Some fields, such as Information Processing, accept a four-year degree in any major. The written exam is typically five subjects and 100 questions. Candidates need at least 40 in each subject and a 60 average. The practical exam requires 60 points, and pass rates often fall between 20% and 50%.
Career value
Korean public enterprises often add points for job-related Engineer licenses. In construction, electrical, fire, and safety work, the law requires licensed staff for company registration and safety-manager posts. Four years of work after earning it opens the top Professional Engineer exam. In IT, employers tend to treat it as a baseline credential rather than proof of ability.
FAQ
- How many questions are on the written test?
- Usually 100 questions across five subjects, though it varies by field.
- When can students apply?
- Generally in the final year of a four-year program, subject to credit requirements.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- 산업인력공단. Q-Net 국가자격 시험 안내. https://www.q-net.or.kr
- 국가기술자격법 (법률), 국가법령정보센터. https://www.law.go.kr
- 국가기술자격법 시행령 별표 (검정 응시자격), 국가법령정보센터.