Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK, Chinese Proficiency Test）

HSK is a standardized international Chinese language proficiency test for non-native Chinese speakers on purposes of academic pursuit, daily and working environment Chinese application. The new HSK consists of two independent parts: written test and oral test. The written test comprises of six levels from HSK-Level 1 to HSK-Level 6; while the oral test can be divide into three levels of HSK (Basic), HSK (Elementary-Intermediate) and HSK (Advanced), and the candidates’ on-site performance will be recorded.

The comparison among the written test of new HSK, Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and The Common European Framework Reference for Languages (CEF) is as follows:

HSK Levels

a. HSK- Level 1

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 1 can understand and use simple words and sentences to fulfill specific communication needs and have a foundation for the further study of Chinese.

b. HSK- Level 2

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 2 can communicate simply and directly on daily topics they are familiar with. Level 2 have reached the advanced stage of beginner level.

c. HSK- Level 3

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 3 can complete basic communication tasks in daily life, study and work. If traveling in China, Level 3 can handle most communication tasks they encounter.

d. HSK- Level 4

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 4 can discuss a relatively wide range of topics in Chinese and are able to communicate with native speakers.

e. HSK- Level 5

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 5 can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, appreciate Chinese films and television, and are able to write and deliver a full speech.

f. HSK- Level 6

Examination candidates who reach HSK-Level 6 can easily understand what they read and listen and express themselves fluently in written and oral Chinese.