How good is your Chinese language? If you’ve been studying for a while or wish to start soon, you might know about the HSK test.
In the past few years, there has been a surge in demand for the Chinese language. This has increased the popularity of HSK, the most popular Mandarin exam.
This Mandarin test is ideal for measuring your knowledge and identifying your level. It will help you learn and improve before moving to the next level.
In this post, you can discover everything, from dates, centers, test structure, fees, question format, scoring system, how to prepare, and much more.
So, let’s get the ball rolling!
What is the HSK test?
HSK is the abbreviation of Hanyu (Chinese), Shuiping (Level), and Kaoshi (test). Thus, this refers to the “Chinese Level Test.”
The HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi / 汉语水平考试) is a standardized test for non-Chinese speakers to certify their Mandarin language skills.
The overseas Chinese and national minorities in China are also eligible to take the exam.
Who conducts the exam?
The Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC) administers the HSK test worldwide. It operates under the People’s Republic of China’s Ministry of Education (MOE).
CLEC is a non-profit government institution that promotes Chinese language education and conducts various Mandarin tests globally, like CTCSOL and HSK.
They also manage over 500 Confucius Institutes in several countries and run flagship programs like “Chinese Bridge,” teacher training, and scholarships.
They also foster study in China and student exchange initiatives.
Hanban is the former name. However, because of controversy concerning how it functions, it changed its name to CLEC in July 2020.
Recognition of HSK worldwide
HSK was established in 1984, and in 1991, the first HSK exam was conducted outside China. Since then, it has become the world’s most famous Mandarin language ability test for non-native Chinese.
The Chinese Government institutions award and officially recognize different variants of HSK.
And that is the number one reason nearly all government organizations, businesses, and public and private educational institutions accept and trust HSK certification.
Advantages of the HSK examination
There are many benefits associated with the HSK test. Here are some well-known ones.
1. Know your precise proficiency level
Do you fancy knowing how good you are at the Chinese language?
HSK can help you identify your current Mandarin proficiency.
If you’ve been studying Chinese for a while, you naturally want to confirm your current language expertise.
In that case, the HSK score gives you a well-defined competency level. That’s a tremendous confidence booster.
You will also recognize your shortcomings. This can encourage you to concentrate on the parts that need extra attention. These all can empower you to prepare better for the forthcoming HSK examination.
2. Study & Work in China
Do you wish to study or find post-study work in China?
HSK is a prerequisite for most Chinese organizations.
While the requirements differ, HSK can add significant value to your profile while applying to Chinese universities and companies.
In most cases, you might need to pass a specific HSK level from 3 to 6.
Most Chinese colleges and academies ask for HSK scores for undergraduates and postgraduate admissions process for international students.
This is also beneficial as proof of language ability for employment applications in China.
3. The career advancement
The ability to speak Chinese is an added benefit for anyone looking for careers requiring the Chinese language across the globe.
Suppose you’re applying for a job in any company that deals with Chinese people or businesses. In that situation, the HSK diploma can be a valuable asset to your C.V.
The documentary evidence, including other qualifications, will put you on your way to a successful interview process.
4. An opportunity to get scholarships
China provides many scholarships, allowances, grants, and fellowships to meriting students from different nations, and HSK exam marks are necessary for several.
This scholarship comprises a monthly allowance and other incentives throughout your stay in China. So you can get a quality education that is pocket-friendly or almost free, which is not something you’d like to miss.
China offers 100’s scholarships ranging from the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) to various local government, enterprise, and university ones.
An understanding of the Chinese language is not compulsory for many such programs.
This mainly depends on your academic performance, courses, and overall profile. However, it can increase the possibility of your receiving these scholarships.
5. This will help you understand China
Language and culture are interconnected and profoundly rooted.
When you learn a new foreign language, you also acknowledge and better understand the country’s culture and traditions and where they originated.
You cannot pass the higher level of HSK without studying the cultural aspects. And this is how HSK can assist you in appreciating Chinese society, history, and customs.
This awareness can help you have a comfortable stay in the country. It also strengthens your chances of migrating to one of the Chinese-speaking regions.
Specialized HSK Examination
There are two primary varieties of HSK exams. The standard HSK has one test, while there are four specialized exams for different purposes.
Let’s find everything.
1. HSK Speaking Test (HSKK)
HSSK (the HSK speaking test) evaluates a candidate’s verbal aptitude.
HSKK includes three sublevels: Primary, Intermediate, and Advanced. All three levels comprise three sections: listen, repeat the picture description, and answer the question.
They organize the HSKK test using audio recording. This judges your pronunciation, tonal ability, flow, and overall fluency in the language.
The advanced level is comparable to the C level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The maximum mark is 100, and one needs a minimum of 60 to pass the examination. The result is valid for two years from the date of announcement.
As this is only oral, you can take this along with other Chinese proficiency tests. During the interaction, they also record the candidate’s speech.
2. Youth Chinese Test (YCT)
The new Youth Chinese Test is for young school-going students whose mother tongue is not Chinese.
YCT measures the test takers’ skills to express themselves in day-to-day activities, academic goals, and professional experiences.
The test structure has two independent tests — a written and an oral examination.
The writing contains four levels (I, II, III, and IV), whereas the speaking has two (beginner and intermediate).
After clearing the test, you will get the result within three weeks.
3. Business Chinese Test (BCT)
Peking University designed BCT as per the direction of the office of the Chinese Language Council International.
Business Chinese Test evaluates candidates’ knowledge of Mandarin in business, daily communication, professions, or everyday working settings.
BCT has two independent tests: BCT (listening and reading) and BCT (speaking and writing). You can take either or both at the same time.
Each specific skill score (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) is 0-500 and 100 for each level.
They have also recently introduced two forms of tests, i.e., paper-based and computer-based.
The written examination has two levels: BCT (A) and BCT (B). There is no minimum or maximum age limit, and the score expires in two years.
4. Medical Chinese Test (MCT)
Do you aspire to pursue an MBBS in China?
Then, take the Medical Chinese Test. They will conduct the 2025 test in May and November.
MCT is for foreigners who want to study medicine or non-medical fields like clinical diagnosis and other related practitioners in China.
They designed MCT to evaluate the candidate’s familiarity with interacting in Mandarin with patients, doctors, nurses, medical personnel, and hospital staff.
MCT comprises three components: reading, listening, and writing. The score you earn determines your language capability.
You must also learn hundreds of words and terminology related to the medicine and pharmaceutical domain.
Everything About Standard HSK
Let’s discover everything linked with the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi).
What are the HSK levels?
The HSK test comprises six independent levels: I, II, III, IV, V, and VI.
HSK 1 and 2 include writing and reading skills, while HSK 4, 5, and 6 include writing, reading, and listening.
There is no speaking section. Thus, to check your speaking skills, take HSKK. The HSK oral test has three sublevels:
- (i) HSK (Elementary),
- (ii) HSK (Intermediate), and
- (iii) HSK (Advanced).
The new HSK levels
In May 2020, the Chinese Testing International (CTI) announced that they would change the present six levels into “three stages and nine sublevels” in the future.
They changed the existing HSK test structure to bring it closer to par with CEFR. The new format will look pretty much like the below:
- HSK 1, 2, and 3 — Beginners, like A1 and A2.
- HSK 4, 5, and 6 — Intermediate, like B1 and B2, and
- HSK 7, 8, and 9 — Advanced, like C1 and C2.
The beginners consist of 3 levels: beginners, elementary, and pre-intermediate. HSK 3 will be close to A2. Similarly, HSK 6 and HSK 9 will look on par with B2 and C2.
The difficulty level, passing mark, cumulative vocabulary, and composition will also change.
One significant difference would be the number of words. For example, the highest level would cover over 10,000 vocabularies instead of the existing 5,000. This must keep it at par with CERF’s near-native level C2.
I’ll update you when they update with additional information.
Test structure and syllabus
While most questions are MCQs (multiple-choice or True/False), they are also subjective at the higher levels.
Let’s determine the specific level outline, the required number of words, and the test duration.
| HSK Levels | Description | Test Duration | Total Words Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSK1 | HSK level 1 is the first and easiest level. You will understand simple Chinese phrases, greetings, beginner vocabulary, grammar, and straightforward sentence formation required for communicating as a novice learner. This builds a necessary foundation to help you with further studies. | 40 | 150 |
| HSK2 | In HSK 2, the candidates can write and read about frequently used situations and day-to-day activities. Here, you have a general idea of familiar subjects and hold basic conversations, but with some difficulties. The elementary level is the gateway to the lower intermediate. | 55 | 300 |
| HSK3 | HSK 3 level goes beyond basic things and is the midway to Mandarin proficiency. You can make intermediate-level sentences and communicate for various purposes, like personal and professional. This level also assists you in communicating when you’re in a Chinese-speaking region. | 90 | 600 |
| HSK4 | HSK 3 level goes beyond basic things and is the midway to Mandarin proficiency. You can make intermediate-level sentences and communicate for various purposes, like personal and professional. This level also assists you in communicating when you’re in a Chinese-speaking region. | 105 | 1200 |
| HSK5 | HSK 5 is an advanced level. It allows you to read Chinese newspapers, magazines, documents, and web content in the Chinese language. You can speak, read, and listen to nearly all topics. Besides, you can also watch movies for learning Chinese, tv-series and listen to music with little trouble. | 125 | 2,500 |
| HSK6 | HSK 6 is the highest and, obviously, most challenging. You can write and speak Mandarin comfortably. While you may or may not be near-native fluent, you can use several idiomatic expressions and complicated tones and make complex sentences almost spontaneously. | 140 | 5,000 |
The scoring system & passing mark
All three sections, i.e., writing, reading, and listening, have a maximum mark of 100.
They provide all characters, and Pinyin is for the first two levels. Oppositely, they don’t offer Pinyin for the remaining ones, and everything is in Chinese characters.
Since there is no listening section in HSK 1 and 2, this total score is 200. Thus, you need a minimum of 120 points out of 200 to pass.
In comparison, HSK 4, 5, and 6 have a maximum of 300. To pass, you require a minimum of 180 out of 300.
How long are scores valid?
The HSL certificate never expires, i.e., it is valid for a lifetime.
However, suppose you aim to gain admission to a college and university in mainland China. In that case, your scores are valid for two years only from the date you take the test.
HSK testing centers
Chinese Testing International (CTI), a government establishment, manages the Chinese test independently or through various collaborations with educational centers worldwide.
As of January 2024, CTI maintains 1,208 HSK test centers in 155 countries, supporting over 30 million global Chinese learners.
They don’t administer the test in Taiwan (the Republic of China). This is because Taiwan has its separate Chinese exam, i.e., TOCFL, and it doesn’t conduct it in China, Hong Kong, and Macau.
2025 HSK test dates
They publish the exam dates once a year and typically conduct them 14 times yearly.
Registration usually closes four weeks before the scheduled test. However, the deadline for the internet-based exams is ten days before their respective test dates.
| Test Dates | Written Exam Registration Last Date | Online Exam Registration Last Date | Paper Results Date | Date of results (Paper/Internet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 12 (Sun) | Dec 16, 2024 | Jan 02 | Jan 03 | Feb 19 / Jan 27 |
| Mar 09 (Sun) | Feb 10 | Feb 27 | Mar 06 | Apr 09 / Mar 24 |
| Apr 12 (Sat) | Mar 16 | Apr 02 | Apr 11 | May 19 / Apr 28 |
| May 17 (Sat) | Apr 20 | May 07 | May 09 | June 17 / June 03 |
| June 22 (Sun) | May 26 | June 12 | Jun 12 | July 22 / July 07 |
| July 19 (Sat) | June 22 | July 09 | Jul 11 | Aug 19 / Aug 04 |
| Aug 17 (Sat) | July 21 | Aug 07 | Aug 08 | Sept 17 / Sept 01 |
| Sept 07 (Sun) | Aug 11 | Aug 28 | Aug 29 | Oct 14 / Sept 22 |
| Oct 18 (Sat) | Sept 21 | Oct 08 | Oct 09 | Nov 18 / Nov 03 |
| Nov 15 (Sat) | Oct 19 | Nov 05 | Nov 06 | Dec 15 / Dec 01 |
| Dec 07 (Sun) | Nov 10 | Nov 27 | Nov 28 | Jan 07, 2026 / Dec 22 |
2025 HSK Speaking Test Dates
| Test Dates | Paper and Pencil Exam | Internet-based Exam | Date of Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 12 (Sat) | Dec 16, 2024 | Jan 02 | Feb 19 / Feb 10 |
| Mar 09 (Sun) | Feb 10 | Feb 27 | Apr 09 / Mar 31 |
| Apr 12 (Sat) | Mar 16 | Apr 02 | May 19 / May 09 |
| May 17 (Sat) | Apr 20 | May 07 | June 17 / June 06 |
| June 22 (Sun) | May 26 | June 12 | July 22 / July 14 |
| July 19 (Sat) | June 22 | July 09 | Aug 19 / Aug 08 |
| Aug 17 (Sat) | July 21 | Aug 07 | Sept 17 / Sept 08 |
| Sept 07 (Sun) | Aug 11 | Aug 28 | Oct 14 / Sept 29 |
| Oct 18 (Sat) | Sept 21 | Oct 08 | Nov 18 / Nov 07 |
| Nov 15 (Sat) | Oct 19 | Nov 05 | Dec 15 / Dec 05 |
| Dec 8 (Sun) | Nov 10 | Nov 27 | Jan 7, 2026 / Dec 29 |
They declare the results 4 to 6 weeks after the test. Since the dates vary, so check with the nearest test centers.
What is the examination fee for 2025?
The test fee for each corresponding level differs, depending on where you take the test.
The cost is the same as other famous language tests like DELF, CILS, DELE, CIPLE, SIELE, Goethe-Zertifikat, and TEF Canada.
For example, the price is between $30 to $80 in the USA, whereas, in India, it ranges from ₹ 1500 to 6500.
In mainland China, the cost for HSK level 1 is 150RMB. After that, it increases by 100RMB for every grade. Finally, it reaches a maximum of 650RMB for the highest one, level 6.
How do I register for the HSK test?
The last date for each exam will differ. Thus, you must check the deadline and submit your applications before that.
You can register directly on the official website. You can register as a new user if you don’t have an account.
Once you’ve done this, you can select the level, dates, and test center and choose the paper-based or internet-based format.
Next, upload your photo, fill in your identity number (such as a passport or driving license), and complete the application form.
Finally, make the payment and submit your complete application form.
Alternatively, you can contact your nearest HSK test center, and they will help you complete the registration.
How to prepare for HSK?
Chinese is one of the most difficult languages, but there are ways to simplify it.
Passion, perseverance, preparation, and practice can lead to HSK’s success.
Today, you can find many online resources such as books, Chinese learning apps, audio and video lessons, and LMS programs.
All these can be the start but not the end. Most of these online study materials are for beginner levels, not for higher ones, like 7 to 9.
Finding an experienced teacher or enrolling at some Chinese learning center near you would be beneficial. The good thing is you can find an abundance of institutes in every major city.
As language and culture are interconnected, you can also focus on China’s cultural aspects and history to enhance your learning experience.
You can also check the websites to get many sample papers and previous year’s questions to help you prepare better and ensure you ace the exam!
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Should you take the Chinese HSK exam?
You may want to know your exact level and check how much you studied.
Reasonably, you require a minimum score for a visa application in China for study or work.
You likely aspire to enhance your Mandarin skills to further your career and impress future employers with your proficiency in the language.
Whatever your motivation the HSK test can be an excellent value addition to your C.V. to edge out your competitors.
This is a worthwhile effort to encourage you to accomplish more in your personal, academic, and professional life.
Do you have any questions for me? You can share your thoughts in the comment section below!
When will hsk level 3 exam be going to happen in 2023? and in which state?
Check the official site for the latest update, as earlier HSK exam eas suspended in India at most centers.
Recently I gave the hsk3 and hskk exams at the same time. My result is, hsk3 is cleared but I have failed in hskk basic. I want to ask now I will repeat only hskk or both?
Both are separate exam and are indivudual from each other. So, you only need to take HSKK!
Hello Aliya,
chinesetest.cn doesn’t have an Indian test center anymore. Could you please share how / where you gave your HSK test in India?
Hi sir, I completed my B.tech and I’m interested in learning languages. I’m learning chinese. Now, I’m able to give HSK1 and HSK2 level exams. So how can I get a job by learning chinese? What is the procedure should i follow, and what exams should I take so that I can do work in India?
Once you achieve upper intermediate or advanced level like HSK 4 or 5, you can apply for jobs that require the Mandarin language. Job portals, consultancy, networking sites, Linkedin are some of the popular sites for that.
Hello sir I want to learn Mandarin. I want to ask that is it necessary to learn Pinyin provided that I am a Hindi speaker and Hindi is also a phonetic language. So can I skip learning Pinyin?
Since Mandarin is not a phonetic language and the pronunciation and writing of Chinese characters differ, thus, Pinyin can help people learn Chinese pronunciation as it is transcribed into Latin script. So, in a way, it is a solid foundation and helpful for learning this language.