Introduction to Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK)
Designed to gauge candidates' command of the Chinese language, Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi 汉语水平考试 (HSK) is one of several national standardized tests governed by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC, formerly known as Hanban). According to the Chinese Proficiency Grading Standards for International Chinese Language Education (GF0025-2021), a standard grading system of three-level and nine-grade is formulated: primary, intermediate, and advanced.
Additionally, there is Hanyu Shuiping Kouyu Kaoshi 汉语水平口语考试 (HSKK), a standardized Chinese
Speaking Proficiency test that evaluates speaking abilities through an audio
recording.
According to CLEC's official sources, around 1,404 HSK test centers
are worldwide, spread over 164 countries. These centers serve more than 7.5
million test takers annually, an estimated 70 million people. The HSK has
become the third most popular language test after the IELT and the TOEFL.
Purpose of HSK proficiency tests
According to the Chinese Ministry of Education, international students
must have an HSK Level 4 or higher to enroll in Chinese universities.
The HSK score is now score necessary for registering for admission, graduation,
and scholarships to study in China. It can be a bonus for those seeking a
Chinese work permit/ work visa.
HSK scores can also fulfill multiple needs and provide a reference
basis for admission to academic institutions, employment, and promotions, as
well as self-assessment of language learners and language institutes to
evaluate their effectiveness.
Applicants for the Chinese Education Scholarships must have HSK and HSK speaking test score sheets. Also, Students who have completed their Chinese language studies overseas are eligible to participate in the "Chinese Test Summer Camp," which allows them to travel to China to observe and understand the Chinese civilization firsthand.
LEVEL DESCRIPTION
| LEVEL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| Elementary |
HSK Level 1: Ability to understand and use basic vocabulary that enables further learning. HSK Level 2: Ability to communicate with simple phrases. HSK Level 3: Ability to communicate with native speakers in personal, social, and academic setups to carry out essential everyday tasks. |
| Intermediate |
HSK Level 4: Ability to communicate with native speakers fluently with standardized expressions. HSK Level 5: Ability to read Chinese newspapers and discuss, evaluate, and express opinions on various topics. HSK Level 6: Ability to read, write, speak, and express like a native speaker with native speakers on any given topic and situation. |
| Advanced | HSK Level 7-9: Ability to understand, discuss, and translate Chinese literature and complex language materials on varied genres with an in-depth understanding of the context. |
*Note: HSK 7-9 levels consist of a single test paper, and the levels are categorized based on the test according to exam results.
* The HSK Standard Course System is adaptable and flexible in its
application to the Online-Merge-Offline (OMO) teaching paradigm.
EXAMINATION CONTENT
| LEVEL | ASSESSMENT | VOCABULARY |
|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | Listening, speaking, and reading | 300 |
| HSK 2 | Listening, speaking, reading, and writing | 500 |
| HSK 3 | Listening, speaking, reading, and writing | 1000 |
| HSK 4 | Listening, speaking, reading, and writing | 2000 |
| HSK 5 | Listening, speaking, reading, and writing | 3600 |
| HSK 6 | Listening, speaking, reading, and writing | 5400 |
| HSK 7-9 | Listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translating | 11000 |
*Note: For HSK1-6, speaking proficiency needs to be assessed through a separate HSK speaking test.
OVERVIEW OF CHINESE PROFICIENCY TESTS
HSK is the most widely used standardized test to measure Chinese
language proficiency. However, there are several other tests tailored to the
needs of students, educators, and professionals in various industries.
The other prominent standardized tests that the CLEC regulates, and sponsors are the Youth Chinese Test (YCT) for primary and secondary school students, the Business Chinese Test (BCT) for the business environment, and the Medical Chinese Test (MCT) for medical students, staff, and practitioners.
| PROFICIENCY TEST | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| HSK |
Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi General Mandarin vocabulary essential for everyday life, study, and work. |
| BCT |
Business Chinese Test Vocabulary proficiency essential for a business environment. |
| MCT |
Medical Chinese Test Medical terminology and Chinese language vocabulary designed for non-native Chinese speakers, such as medical students in China, medical practitioners, and personnel working in China, to enable them to carry out clinical practice and patient interaction. |
| YCT |
Youth Chinese Test Aimed at primary and secondary school pupils to use Chinese as a second language. |
| CTC(SOL) |
Certificate for Teachers of Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages Aimed at assessing Chinese language tutors in Chinese language and culture teaching at schools, colleges, and organizations; also, in classroom etiquette and management, cross-cultural interactions, and professional ethics. |