What is HSK?
The HSK test measures your ability to use and understand the Chinese language as it’s read, written, heard and spoken with Chinese people. It`s the most accepted Chinese language test in the world.
In order for the HSK test to measure how well you read, listen, speak and write in Chinese, and how well you use these skills together, you’ll be asked to integrate these skills for the test. For example, you may read a passage or listen to a dialogue, and to write about what you learned. The HSK test measures your ability to integrate the four Chinese skills you need in an Chinese related setting.
HSK test is held regularly in China and other countries each year. Certificates of HSK will be issued to those who have secured the required scores.
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.
