The HSK course (Chinese proficiency test) is an international standardised test of Chinese language proficiency, assessing non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities in using the Chinese language. The HSK test consists of six levels. Now the CDU Confucius Institute test venue is reopening! Visit https://www.chinesetest.cn to book a testing date that suits you.
The new HSK is an international standardised exam that tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. It assesses non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities in using the Chinese language in their daily, academic and professional lives.
Test structure
The new HSK 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 (beginner level), HSK (intermediate level), and HSK (advanced level). During the speaking test, test takers’ speeches will be recorded.
Writing test | Speaking test |
---|---|
HSK (level VI) | HSK (advanced level) |
HSK (level V) | |
HSK (level IV) | HSK (intermediate level) |
HSK (level III) | |
HSK (level II) | HSK (beginner level) |
HSK (level I) |
Test levels
The different levels of the new HSK are similar to some of the levels in the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages (CLPS) and the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF); details are as follows:
New HSK | Vocabulary | CLPS | CEF |
HSK (level VI) | Over 5000 | Level V | C2 |
HSK (level V) | 2500 | C1 | |
HSK (level IV) | 1200 | Level IV | B2 |
HSK (level III) | 600 | Level III | B1 |
HSK (level II) | 300 | Level II | A2 |
HSK (level I) | 150 | Level I | A1 |
HSK (Level I): You are able to understand and use very simple Chinese phrases, meet basic needs for communication and possess the ability to further your Chinese language studies.
HSK (Level II): You 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): You are able to communicate in Chinese at a basic level in your daily, academic and professional life, and manage most communication in Chinese when travelling in China.
HSK (Level IV): You are able to converse in Chinese on a wide range of topics and communicate fluently with native Chinese speakers.
HSK (Level V): You are able to read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays, and give a full-length speech in Chinese.
HSK (Level VI): You are able to easily comprehend written and spoken information in Chinese and effectively express yourself in Chinese, both orally and on paper.
Test principles
The new HSK follows the principle of “test-teaching correlation”, bases the design of the test on the current trends in international Chinese language training, and is closely related to textbooks. The purpose of the test is to “promote training through testing” and “promote learning through testing”.
The new HSK emphasises the objectivity and accuracy of the evaluation and stresses the learners’ actual Chinese language abilities.
The new HSK sets clear test objectives to allow the test takers to be able to improve their Chinese language abilities in a systematic and efficient way.
Testing purposes
The new HSK retains the former HSK’s orientation as a general (or universal) Chinese language abilities test for adult learners. The results of the test can serve several purposes:
- A reference for an educational institution’s decision-making concerning recruiting students, assigning students to different classes, allowing students to skip certain courses and giving students’ academic credits.
- A reference for employers’ decision-making concerning the recruitment, training and promotion of test takers.
- A method for Chinese language learners to assess and improve their proficiency in Chinese.
- A method for Chinese language training institutions to evaluate training results.
- A necessary item to apply for the Confucius Institute Scholarship to study in China.
Results certificate
Test takers will receive their results on website, www.chinesetest.cn within four weeks after the test.
Test fees (pen and paper charges)
Currency: Australian dollars
HSK (level I): $35
HSK (level II): $35
HSK (level III): $55
HSK (level IV): $55
HSK (level V): $75
HSK (level VI): $75
HSK (primary level): $35
HSK (intermediate level): $55
HSK (advanced level): $75