The HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is China's official standardised test for assessing Chinese language proficiency in non-native speakers. It is designed for foreign students, overseas Chinese, and ethnic minorities in China, offering a comprehensive evaluation of language skills from beginner to advanced levels.
Recognised as the global benchmark for Mandarin proficiency, the HSK serves as a valuable credential for job seekers, academic applicants, and professionals engaging with international organisations. A strong HSK score demonstrates concrete proof of your Chinese language ability, enhancing opportunities for employment, education, and global collaboration.
The HSK has six levels of writing tests and three levels of speaking tests.
Writing Test - six levels
HSK (Level I)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK1A and HSK 1B courses (HSK 1A and 1B)
- mastered 150 commonly used words and basic grammar patterns
HSK (Level II)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK Level 2 courses (HSK 2A and 2B)
- mastered 300 commonly used words and related grammar patterns
HSK (Level III)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK Level 3 courses
- mastered 600 commonly used words and related grammar patterns
HSK (Level IV)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK Level 4 courses
- mastered 1,200 commonly used words
HSK (Level V)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK Level 5 courses
- mastered 2,500 commonly used words
HSK (Level VI)
This is suitable if you have:
- completed HSK Level 6 courses
- mastered 5,000 or more commonly used words
HSK tests at NCI are usually held in March, May and December. Registration for each exam is required approximately one month prior to the test date.
Speaking test - three levels
HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level)
This is suitable if you have:
- studied Chinese for two to three class hours per week for one to two semesters
- mastered about 200 commonly used words
HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level)
This is suitable if you have:
- studied Chinese for two to three class hours per week for one to two academic years
- mastered about 900 commonly used words
HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level)
This is suitable if you have:
- studied Chinese for two to three class hours per week for more than two academic years
- mastered about 3,000 commonly used words