What is HSK?
The HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is China’s official proficiency test for Mandarin learners worldwide. It evaluates how well you can read, write, listen, and speak in real-life Chinese contexts, making it the most widely recognized Chinese language qualification globally.
To accurately assess your language ability, the HSK combines multiple skills. You may be asked to read a passage, listen to a conversation, and respond in writing or speech, reflecting how language is used in everyday communication.
The HSK is conducted several times each year both in China and internationally. Successful candidates receive an official HSK Certificate, issued by Chinese educational authorities and accepted by universities, employers, and government institutions across the world.
HSK Levels
| HSK Level | Vocabulary | Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages (CLPS) | The Common European Framework Reference for Language (CEF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 150 | Level I | A1 |
| Level 2 | 300 | Level II | A2 |
| Level 3 | 600 | Level III | B1 |
| Level 4 | 1200 | Level IV | B2 |
| Level 5 | 2500 | Level V | C1 |
| Level 6 | 5000+ | Level V | C2 |
HSK Level 1: can understand and use very simple Chinese words and phrases, meet basic needs for communication and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.
HSK Level 2: have an excellent grasp of basic Chinese and can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
HSK Level 3: can communicate in Chinese at a basic level in their daily, academic and professional lives. They can manage most communication in Chinese when travelling in China.
HSK Level 4: can converse in Chinese on a wide range of topics and are able to communicate fluently with native Chinese speakers.
HSK Level 5: can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays, and give a full-length speech in Chinese.
HSK Level 6: can easily comprehend written and spoken information in Chinese and can effectively express themselves in Chinese, both orally and on paper.
For Who?
Non-native speakers (foreigners, overseas Chinese and students of Chinese national minorities).
Why Take HSK Test
The new HSK test retains the former HSK’s orientation as a general (or universal) Chinese language abilities test for adult learners. The results of the HSK test can serve several purposes:
1. A reference for an educational institution’s decision-making concerning recruiting students, assigning students to different classes, allowing students to skip certain courses and granting students academic credits.
2. A reference for employers’ decision-making concerning the recruitment, training and promotion of test takers.
3. A method for Chinese language learners to assess and improve their proficiency in Chinese.
4. A method for Chinese language training institutions to evaluate training results.