Are you preparing for the GTQ Photoshop Level 2 exam and wondering what to expect? Curious about the test format or how hard it really is? Discover the key details, insights, and real-world tips that will help you succeed in this popular Korean design certification.
GTQ Photoshop Level 2
The GTQ (Graphic Technology Qualification) Photoshop Level 2 exam is a recognized certification in South Korea that validates your skills in using Adobe Photoshop for graphic design tasks. It is administered by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), and it’s widely regarded among students, job seekers, and professionals who want to prove their proficiency in digital image editing.
What is GTQ Photoshop Level 2?
This certification tests your ability to handle intermediate Photoshop tools and tasks such as:
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Layer organization
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Image retouching
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Text and typography usage
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Color correction
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Masking and blending
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Object transformation and manipulation
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Print preparation (CMYK vs RGB)
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Applying effects and filters for design purposes
Candidates are given a practical test that usually includes recreating a set of design assignments (e.g., poster, leaflet, or business card) in a limited time, typically 90 minutes. The software versions may vary between CS4, CS6, and CC, but the essential functions being tested are consistent across versions.
Who Should Take It?
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High school and college students aiming to boost their portfolio.
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Aspiring designers looking to break into graphic design roles.
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Professionals in marketing, publishing, or media fields.
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Anyone who wants a structured goal while learning Photoshop.
Key Benefits
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Industry Recognition – Valuable for your résumé or academic applications.
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Practical Skills – Focused on real-world tasks instead of theory.
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Career Opportunities – Trusted by employers in design-related fields.
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Boosts Creativity – Encourages deeper understanding of design tools.
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Confidence Builder – Proves your competence under timed pressure.
I took this exam after six months of self-study, balancing tutorials and mock tests. Despite the pressure, it helped me develop real confidence in my Photoshop skills.
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GTQ Photoshop Level 2 Test
The GTQ Photoshop Level 2 Test is both time-sensitive and detail-oriented. Unlike theoretical exams, it’s 100% practical—so you’re judged on accuracy, technique, and aesthetics.
Format and Structure
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Test Duration 90 minutes
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Number of Tasks Usually 3–4 design problems
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Pass Mark 70 points or higher (out of 100)
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Scoring Criteria
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Task completion
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Accuracy of reproduction
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File setup correctness
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Use of tools as instructed
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Visual balance and color harmony
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Common Task Types
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Poster layout design using grids and shapes
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Business card design with embedded logos
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Photo correction using levels and curves
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Applying filters like Gaussian blur or drop shadows
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Typographic compositions with emphasis rules
What Makes It Challenging?
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Strict timing – You must manage time wisely between tasks.
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Tool accuracy – Misusing even a single tool can cost you points.
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Attention to detail – You are evaluated on pixel-level accuracy.
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No partial credit – Many sections require full completion to gain points.
When I practiced, I often failed due to missing alignment or font mismatches. I learned to double-check every instruction—saving precious minutes during the real exam.
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GTQ Photoshop Level 2 Difficulty
“Is GTQ Photoshop Level 2 hard?” This is one of the most asked questions among beginners—and for good reason. While it’s not impossible, it does demand consistency and strategy in your preparation.
Key Challenges
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Time Pressure – 90 minutes pass faster than you think.
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Software Fluency – You need to instinctively know where tools are.
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Precision – Tiny errors in spacing, color, or layers impact your score.
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Multitasking – Balancing design, layers, and effects under stress.
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Memory – You must remember keyboard shortcuts and tool orders.
How to Overcome the Difficulty
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Use Past Exams – Practice with real test questions from previous years.
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Learn Shortcuts – Boost speed by mastering keyboard commands.
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Focus on Weak Areas – Identify where you lose most points.
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Mock Exams – Simulate the test environment weekly.
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Group Study – Explaining tools to peers strengthens your understanding.
Case Study: My Journey from 58 to 83
The first time I attempted a mock test, I scored 58—a failing grade. I realized I spent too much time trying to make designs look “perfect” instead of following the provided instructions. After a month of focused practice, I scored 83 on the real test. My secret? Creating a checklist of recurring mistakes and fixing them one by one.
Don’t be discouraged by early failures. Think of the GTQ test as a learning process, not just a scorecard.
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Conclusion
In summary, the GTQ Photoshop Level 2 certification is a worthwhile challenge for anyone aiming to prove their digital design capabilities. With a practical test format, it pushes you to master the tools of Photoshop while applying creativity under pressure. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your career direction, passing this test can be a game-changer.
“Success is the sum of small efforts—repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier
Prepare with purpose, practice with persistence, and the GTQ badge will be yours.
