What is HSK？

HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) or the Chinese Proficiency Test is an international standardized exam which tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. HSK test was developed in 1984 and the first HSK test was held overseas in 1991.

It assesses non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities in using the Chinese language in their daily, academic and professional lives.

Why Choose HSK as a Way to Learn Chinese？

The HSK test 2.0 emphasizes the objectivity and accuracy of the evaluation and stresses the learners’ actual Chinese language abilities. The HSK test 2.0 sets clear test objectives to allow the test takers to be able to improve their Chinese language abilities in a systematic and efficient way.

How Many Levels Does HSK Have?

Currently, HSK is divided into six levels, from 1 to 6, with level 6 being the highest. The current HSK exam is referred to as HSK 2.0.

When the HSK test 1.0 structure was often criticized for testing the formal and impractical language, the HSK test 2.0 format is designed to test usage of more daily and practical language.

In the future, a higher-level exam, HSK 3.0, will be introduced.The new HSK test 3.0 will be divided into three levels and nine bands.

Before that,The current HSK levels 1-6 test will remain unchanged in the near future. The current test contents, certificates and learning materials are still valid for the foreseeable future.

What Does HSK Test?

The HSK test 2.0 consists of a writing test and a speaking test, which are independent of each other. There are six levels of writing tests, namely the HSK (level I), HSK (level II), HSK (level III), HSK (level IV), HSK (level V), and HSK (level VI). There are three levels of speaking tests, namely the HSK Speaking Test (beginner level), HSK Speaking Test (intermediate level), and HSK Speaking Test (advanced level). During the speaking test, test takers’ speeches will be recorded.

How Do Different Levels of HSK Represent Chinese Proficiency?

HSK (Level I)

Test takers can understand and use very simple Chinese phrases, meet basic needs for communication and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.

HSK (Level II)
Test takers 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 III)
Test takers 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 IV)
Test takers can converse in Chinese on a wide range of topics and are able to communicate fluently with native Chinese speakers.

HSK (Level V)

Test takers can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays, and give a full-length speech in Chinese.

HSK (Level VI)

Test takers can easily comprehend written and spoken information in Chinese and can effectively express themselves in Chinese, both orally and on paper.  

Functions of HSK Certificate

(1) Offers a reference for educational institutions to recruit students, classify students, exempt students from some courses and grant credits;

(2) Offers a reference for employers to employ, train and promote employees;

(3) Offers a reference for Chinese language learners to understand and improve their ability to apply Chinese;

(4) Offers a reference for related Chinese teaching institutions or training organizations to evaluate teaching standards and the effectiveness of different training.

HSK Certificate

How to Register for the Exam?

You can register for the HSK test online: www.chinesetest.cn

You can study and then take the exam at test centers around the world. The test dates for 2024 are as follows:

Link: 2025 HSK Test Dates

Link: HSK Test Fees

Test fees might differ due to exchange rates of different countries. Test takers need to contact with the test centers they wish to take the test for test fees. The following is the HSK test fees for test centers in Beijing and Shanghai in RMB (Chinese yuan):

How to Self-Study HSK Courses?

HSK is a Chinese proficiency test with its official textbooks from HSK Levels 1-6。

Link: HSK Test Vocabulary List

Link: HSK Test Practice Materials

For beginners, HSK1 and HSK2 have online courses, allowing for online study and testing.

Clink the link and register as a member of The China Academy allows you to try out the first five sections for free.

Link: HSK Online Study

After paying for the course, you will receive an official HSK email to verify the credibility of your learning.

(The above content is compiled from the official Chinese test platform: www.chinesetest.cn）