Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK)

 

The new HSK test was launched by Hanban in an effort to better serve Chinese language learners. The test is the result of coordinated efforts by experts from different disciplines including Chinese language teaching, linguistics, psychology and educational measurement. The new exam combines the advantages of the original HSK while taking into consideration recent trends in Chinese language training by conducting surveys and making use of the latest findings in international language testing.

 

I. Test Structure

The new HSK is an international standardized 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. 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)

                 

II. 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 5,000	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

 

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level I) can understand and use very simple Chinese phrases, meet basic needs for communication and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.

HSK LevelⅠ

 

HSK (Level I) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level I of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level I) can understand and use very simple Chinese phrases, meet basic needs for communication and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK (Level I) is intended for students who have studied Chinese for a semester (half an academic year), with 2-3 class hours in each week. These students have mastered 150 commonly used words and basic grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

HSK (Level I) test is made up of listening comprehension and reading comprehension sections and contains a total of 40 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	5	20	About 15
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
		Part IV			5
	II. Reading	Part I			5	20	15
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
		Part IV			5
Filling out the answer sheet				5
Total	/	40		About 35

 

The test will last for 40 minutes in total (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. A phrase and picture will be provided with each item. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. A sentence and 3 pictures will be provided with each item. The test takers should choose corresponding pictures based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. A dialogue and several pictures will be provided with each item. The test takers should choose corresponding pictures based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a person will make a statement. Another person will then ask a question and provide three possible answers. The three possible answers will be listed on the test paper, and test takers can choose one of the answers based on what they hear.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item will provide a picture and a phrase. The test taker should judge whether or not they are consistent with each other.

There are 5 items in Part II. The test paper will display several pictures. For each item, a sentence will be provided. The test taker needs to choose one of the corresponding pictures based on the content of the sentence.

There are 5 items in Part III. During this section, 5 questions and 5 answers will be provided. The test take should match the question with the appropriate answer.

There are 5 items in Part IV. Each item will display a sentence with one word missing. The test taker should select one of the words in the answer section to fill in the blank.

 

All items on the test paper are shown in pinyin.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level I), three results will be provided including listening, reading and total. The test taker must score at least 120 points total to be considered passing.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Total	200

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date).

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level II) 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 Ⅱ

 

The HSK (Level II) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level II of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A2 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level II) 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.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK (Level II) is intended for students who have studied Chinese for two semesters (an academic year), with 2-3 class hours in each week. These students have mastered 300 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK (Level II) test is made up of listening comprehension and reading comprehension sections and contains a total of 60 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	10	35	About 25
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			5
	II. Reading	Part I			5	25	20
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
		Part IV			10
Filling out the answer sheet				5
Total	/	60		About 50

 

The test will last for a total of 55 minutes (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. A sentence and a picture will be provided with each item. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a dialogue and several pictures will be provided. The test takers should select the appropriate answer based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons with a third person asking a question related to the content. There will be three possible answers on the test paper from which the test takers can select the correct one based on the passage.

There are 5 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a 4-5 sentence dialogue between two persons with a third person will asking a question at the end of the passage. There will be three possible answers on the test paper from which the test takers can select the correct one based on what they hear in the passage.

 

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. Several pictures will be shown on the test paper. For each item, a sentence will be provided. The test taker should choose corresponding pictures based on the sentence.

There are 5 items in Part II. For each item, one or two sentences will be provided in which one word is missing. The test taker should select one of the words in the answer section to fill in the blank.

There are 5 items in Part III. For each item, two sentences will be provided. The test taker should judge whether or not the second sentence is consistent with the first one.

There are 10 items in Part IV. In this section, 20 sentences will be provided. The test taker will be asked to find the correlations between the sentences.

 

All the items on the test paper are shown in pinyin.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level II), three results will be provided including listening, reading and total. The test taker must score at least 120 points total to be considered passing.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Total	200

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level III) 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 Ⅲ

 

The HSK (Level III) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level III of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the B1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level III) 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.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK (Level III) is intended for students who have studied Chinese for three semesters (one and a half academic years), with 2-3 class hours in each week. These students have mastered 600 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK (Level III) test is made up of listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing sections and contains a total of 80 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	10	40	Approximately 35
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			10
	II. Reading	Part I			10	30	25
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
	III. Writing	Part I			5	10	15
		Part II			5
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	80		Approximately 85

 

The test will last for 90 minutes in total (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a dialogue and several pictures will be provided. The test takers should select corresponding pictures based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a short passage will be read out, followed by an assertion, which also appears on the paper. The test taker should decide whether the assertion made is true or false.

There are 10 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons. A third person will then ask a question about the dialogue. There will be three possible answers on the test paper, from which the test takers can select the best answer based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a 4-5 sentence dialogue between two persons. A third person will then ask a question based on the dialogue. There will be three possible answers on the test paper, from which the test takers can choose best answer based on what they hear.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. In this section, 20 sentences will be provided and the test taker will be asked to correlate them.

There are 10 items in Part II. For each item, one or two sentences will be provided, in which one word/phrase is missing. The test taker should choose one of the suggested words/phrases to fill in the blank.

There are 10 items in Part III. This part consists of 10 short passages, each followed by a question. The test taker should choose the best answer from the 3 choices provided.

 

3. Writing

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item lists several words. The test taker should construct a sentence using the words provided.

There are 5 items in Part II. Each item provides a sentence with several blanks. The test taker should fill in the blanks with the appropriate characters.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level III), four results will be provided including listening, reading, writing and the total. The test taker must score at least 180 points to be considered passing.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Writing	100
Total	300

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

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

HSK Level Ⅳ

 

The HSK (Level IV) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level IV of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the B2 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level IV) can converse in Chinese on a wide range of topics and are able to communicate fluently with native Chinese speakers.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK (Level IV) is intended for students who have studied Chinese2-4 class hours per week for four semesters (two academic years). These students have mastered 1,200 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK (Level IV) test is made up of listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing and contains a total of 100 test items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	10	45	Approximately 30
		Part II			15
		Part III			20
	II. Reading	Part I			10	40	35
		Part II			10
		Part III			20
	III. Writing	Part I			10	15	25
		Part II			5
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	100		~ 100

 

The test will last for 105 minutes in total (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played only once. For each item, a short passage will read out, followed by an assertion which also appears on the test paper. The test taker should decide whether the assertion is true or false.

There are 15 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played only once. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons. A third person will then ask a question based on the dialogue. There will be four possible answers on the test paper, from which test takers can choose the right one based on what they hear.

There are 20 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played only once. This section consists of a 4-5 sentence dialogue or monologue followed by one or two questions. Four possible answers will be provided on the test paper, from which the test taker can choose the best one.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. One or two sentences will be provided for each item, in which one word/phrase is missing. The test taker should choose one of the suggested words/phrases to fill in the blank.

There are 10 items in Part II. Each item consists of three sentences that the test taker needs to arrange in the correct order.

There are 20 items in Part III. Each item consists of a short passage, and one or two questions will be asked about the passage. The test taker needs to select the best answer out of the four answers provided.

 

3. Writing

There are 10 items in Part I. Each item consists of several words. The test taker should construct a sentence using these words.

There are 5 items in Part II. Each item consists of a picture and a word. The test taker needs to write a sentence based on the picture and the word.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level III), four results will be provided including listening, reading, writing and the total. The test taker must score at least 180 points to be considered passing.

 

	Full Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Writing	100
Total	300

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level V) can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays, and give a full-length speech in Chinese.

HSK Level Ⅴ

 

The HSK (Level V) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level V of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the C1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level V) can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays and give a full-length speech in Chinese.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK (Level V) is intended for students who have studied Chinese 2-4 class hours per week for more than two academic years. These students have mastered 2,500 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK (Level V) test is made up of listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing sections and contains a total of 100 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	20	45	About 30
		Part II			25
	II. Reading	Part I			15	45	40
		Part II			10
		Part III			20
	III. Writing	Part I			8	10	40
		Part II			2
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	100		About 120

 

The test will last for 125 minutes in total (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 20 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played only once. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons, with a third person then asking a question about the dialogue. There will be four possible answers provided on the test paper. Test takers must choose the best answer based on what they hear.

There are 25 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played only once. This section consists of a 4-5 sentence dialogue or monologue followed by one or more questions. Four possible answers will be provided on the test paper. The test take must choose the best answer out of the four.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 15 items in Part I. This section consists of various passages, each with several blanks, which should be filled with a word or sentence. The test taker needs to choose the best answer out of four possible answers.

There are 10 items in Part II. Each item consists of a passage and four possible answers. The test taker needs to choose which of the four answers is most consistent with the passage.

There are 20 items in Part III. This section consists of several passages followed by some questions. The test taker should choose the best answer out of the 4 answers provided.

 

3. Writing

There are 8 items in Part I. Each item consists of several words from which the test taker should construct a sentence.

There are 2 items in Part II. The first item consists of several words and requires the test taker to write an article about 80 characters long using the words provided. The second item consists of a picture and requires the test taker to write an article about 80 characters long based on the picture.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level III), four results will be provided including listening, reading, writing and the total. The test taker must score at least 180 points to be considered passing.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Writing	100
Total	300

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level VI) can easily comprehend written and spoken information in Chinese and can effectively express themselves in Chinese, both orally and on paper.

 HSK Level Ⅵ

 

The HSK (Level VI) assesses test takers' abilities in the application of everyday Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level V of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the C2 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level VI) can easily comprehend written and spoken information in Chinese and can effectively express themselves in Chinese, both orally and on paper.

 

I. Test Target

HSK (Level VI) is intended for students who have mastered 5,000 or more commonly used words.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK (Level VI) test is made up of listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing sections and contains a total of 101 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	15	50	About 35
		Part II			15
		Part III			20
	II. Reading	Part I			10	50	45
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			20
III. Writing	Prose Writing	1		45
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	101		~ 135

 

The test will last for 140 minutes in total (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 15 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played only once. For each item, a short passage will be read and 4 possible answers will be provided on the test paper. The test taker needs to choose the answer that is most consistent with the passage.

There are 15 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played only once. A recording of three interviews will be played followed by 5 questions. For each question, 4 possible answers will be provided, from which the test takers can choose the best answer based on what they hear in the passage.

There are 20 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played only once. Several passages will be read, each of them followed by some questions. For each question, 4 possible answers will be provided, from which the test takers can choose the best answer based on what they hear in the passage.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. Each item consists of 4 sentences. The test taker needs to choose the sentence that is grammatically incorrect.

There are 10 items in Part II. Each item consists of a short passage with 3-5 blanks. The test taker needs to choose the best answer from 4 possible answers based on the context.

There are 10 items in Part III. There are two passages, each with 5 blanks. The test taker needs to choose the best answer out of 5 sentences based on the context.

There are 20 items in Part IV. This section consists of several passages followed by some questions. The test taker should choose the right answer from 4 possible answers.

 

3. Writing

The test taker will be required to read a narrative article of about 1,000 characters within 10 minutes, and then rewrite it into a shorter article of about 400 characters within 35 minutes. The test taker should also create a title for the article. The test taker should recount the article and is not required to express personal opinions.

 

III. Results Certificate

For the HSK (Level III), four results will be provided including listening, reading, writing and the total. The test taker must score at least 180 points to be considered passing.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Writing	100
Total	300

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Speaking Test(Beginner Level)

 

The HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level) assesses the test takers' ability to express themselves in oral Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level I and Level II of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level) can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and meet specific needs for communication.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level) is intended for the students who have studied Chinese 2-3 class hours per week for 1-2 semesters. These students have mastered about 200 commonly used words.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level) is comprised of three parts, containing 27 items in total.

 

Section		Number of Items	Duration (Min)
Part I	Listen and Repeat	15	4
Part II	Listen and Reply	10	3
Part III	Answer the Questions	2	3
Total		27	10

 

The duration of the test is 17 minutes (including 7 minutes for preparation).

 

There are 15 items in Part I. For each item, a sentence recording will be played. The test taker should repeat the sentence.

There are 10 items in Part II. In each item, the recording of a question will be played. The test taker should provide a brief answer.

There are 2 items in Part III. There will be two questions on the test paper (in pinyin). The test taker should answer these questions using a minimum of 5 sentences per answer.

 

III. Results Certificate

The maximum score of the HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level) is 100. A score of 60 or above is considered a passing result.

 

Max Score	Passing Score	Your Score
100	60

 

　　As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Speaking Test(Intermediate Level)

 

The HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) assesses the test takers' ability to express themselves in oral Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level III and Level IV of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the B Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) can understand intermediate Chinese and converse fluently with native Chinese speakers.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) is intended for students who have studied Chinese 2-3 hours per week for 1-2 academic years. These students have mastered about 900 commonly used words.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) is comprised of three parts, containing 14 items in total.

 

Section		Number of Items	Duration (Min)
Part I	Listen and Repeat	10	3
Part II	Picture Description	2	4
Part III	Answer the Questions	2	4
Total		14	11

 

The duration of the test is 21 minutes (including 10 minutes for preparation).

 

There are 10 items in Part I. For each item, a sentence recording will be played. The test taker should repeat the sentence.

There are 2 items in Part II. Each item consists of an image. The test taker should say something based on the picture.

There are 2 items in Part III. The test taker should answer the two questions (in pinyin).

 

III. Results Certificate

The maximum score of the HSK Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) is 100. A score of 60 or above is considered a passing result.

 

Max Score	Passing Score	Your Score
100	60

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

Speaking Test(Advanced Level)

 

The HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level) assesses the test takers' ability to express themselves orally in Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level V of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the C Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level) can understand spoken Chinese and fluently express their ideas in Chinese.

 

I. Test Target

The HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level) is intended for the students who have studied Chinese 2-3 class hours per week for more than 2 academic years. These students have mastered about 3,000 common words.

 

II. Test Content

The HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level) is comprised of three parts, containing 6 items in total.

 

Section		Number of Items	Duration (Min)
Part I	Listen and Repeat	3	7
Part II	Read Aloud	1	2
Part III	Answer the Questions	2	5
Total		6	14

 

The duration of the test is 24 minutes (including 10 minutes for preparation).

 

There are 3 items in Part I. The recording of a passage will be played, and the test taker should repeat the content.

There is 1 item in Part II. There will be a passage on the test paper, and the test taker should read it out aloud.

There are 2 items in Part III. The test taker should answer the two questions on the test paper.

 

III. Results Certificate

The maximum score of the HSK Speaking Test (Advanced Level) is 100. A score of 60 or above is considered a passing result.

 

Max Score	Passing Score	Your Score
100	60

 

As a Chinese language certificate for foreign students' entry into Chinese colleges, the results of the HSK are valid for two years (beginning from the test date)

III. 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 emphasizes 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.

 

IV. 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:

1. 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.

2. A reference for employers' decision-making concerning the recruitment, training and promotion of test takers.

3. A method for Chinese language learners to assess and improve their proficiency in Chinese.

4. A method for Chinese language training institutions to evaluate training results.

 

V. Results Certificate

Test takers will receive the results for the new HSK issued by Hanban within three weeks after the test.

Introduction on New HSK Test

In order to better satisfy the demand for adequate Chinese language tests in foreign countries, Hanban has consulted a large number of both foreign and national experts in language teaching, linguistics, educational evaluation and psychology to assess the standard of Chinese language testing abroad. Based on their investigations and some new understandings regarding the shortcomings of Chinese language testing today, Hanban has applied the latest research methodology in foreign-language testing to develop a new HSK test, which will be launched in November 2009. The test is designed for Chinese language learners who are based overseas.

 

Ⅰ Test Structure

The new HSK is a standardized international Chinese proficiency test, taking non-native speakers as its object, and directed at examining students' capability in applying Chinese language in their studies, personal life and work. The new type of examination consists of two independent parts; a written test and an oral test. The written test is comprised of HSK-Level 1, HSK-Level 2, HSK- Level 3, HSK- Level 4, HSK- Level 5 and HSK- Level 6, while the oral test is comprised of HSK(Elementary), HSK (Intermediate) and HSK (Advanced). During the oral test, sound-recording devices are used.

 

Written Test		Oral Test
HSK- Level 6		HSK(Advanced)
HSK- Level 5
HSK- Level 4			HSK(Intermediate)
HSK- Level 3
HSK- Level 2			HSK(Elementary)
HSK- Level 1

 

Ⅱ Test Grades

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

 

  

New HSK	Vocabulary	Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages	The Common European Framework Reference for Language，CEF
HSK- Level 6	Over 5000	Grade Five	C2
HSK- Level 5	2500			C1
HSK- Level 4	1200	Grade Four	B2
HSK- Level 3	600	Grade Three	B1
HSK- Level 2	300	Grade Two	A2
HSK- Level 1	150	Grade One	A1

 

a.       HSK- Level 1

Designed for learners who can understand and use some simple Chinese characters and sentences to communicate, and prepares them for continuing their Chinese studies;

b.      HSK- Level 2

Designed for elementary learners who can use Chinese in a simple and direct manner, applying it in a basic fashion in their daily lives;

c.       HSK- Level 3

Designed for elementary-intermediate learners who can use Chinese to serve the demands of their personal lives, studies and work, and are capable of completing most of the communicative tasks they experience during their Chinese tour;

d.      HSK- Level 4

Designed for intermediate learners who can discuss a relatively wide range of topics in Chinese and are capable of communicating with Chinese speakers at a high standard;

e.       HSK- Level 5

Designed for learners who can read Chinese newspapers and magazines, watch Chinese films and are capable of writing and delivering a lengthy speech in Chinese;

f.       HSK- Level 6

Designed for learners who can easily understand any information communicated in Chinese and are capable of smoothly expressing themselves in written or oral form; 

 

Ⅲ Test Principles

Following the principle of “combing testing and teaching”, the new test is designed in line with the present situation of international Chinese-language teaching and the teaching materials that are commonly available, with the aim of “promoting teaching and learning through examinations”.

 

The new HSK test stresses objectivity and accuracy, and also focuses on developing and testing an examinees' ability to apply Chinese in practical, real-life situations.

 

The new HSK test also sets explicit study objectives, allowing examinees to more effectively improve their Chinese proficiency with defined study plans and goals.

 

Ⅳ Test Functions

Taking its orientation from the old HSK test, the new HSK test is aimed primarily at adult Chinese learners. The test scores meet the various demands of different organizations or groups of people as follows:

A. Offers a reference for educational institutions to recruit students, classify students, exempt students from some courses and grant credits;

B. Offers a reference for employers to employ, train and promote employees;

C. Offers a reference for Chinese learners to understand and improve their ability to apply Chinese;

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

 

Ⅴ Test Score Report

Within three weeks after the test, examinees can access their test scores on the internet and have their `Score Report' issued by Hanban.

For test takers registering via the Internet, it's only needed to sign up to be a member of the website, select the desired category, date and site for the test, and input your personal information. And then your booking for the examination is finished.

Upon completion of the booking, test takers are kindly reminded to pay examination fees before the corresponding deadline, only by which, can the booking finally take effect, the test taker be confirmed, and such services as printing of test admission ticket offered.
Tips:1. Read carefully the examination regulations before registration and participating in examination to facilitate the process of registration and examination;
2. Keep well the account information and test entry card information, which will be of greater help to inquire and obtain the test report and the certificate;
3. If there are any questions about the timing and traffic routes, contacting registered test center in advance will be a good choice.

Youth Chinese Test (YCT)

 

The new YCT test was launched by Hanban in an effort to encourage foreign young students to learn Chinese and improve their Chinese language proficiency. As part of this effort, since 2004 Hanban has organized experts from different disciplines such as Chinese language teaching, linguistics, psychology and educational measurement to work on the program, conducting surveys in order to understand the latest trends in overseas Chinese language teaching and learning.

 

I. Test Structure

The new YCT is an international standardized test of Chinese language proficiency. It assesses young foreign students' abilities to use Chinese in their daily and academic lives. The new YCT consists of a writing test and a speaking test, which are independent of each other. The writing test is divided into four levels, namely, the YCT (level I), YCT (level II), YCT (level III), and YCT (level IV). The speaking test is divided into the YCT (Beginner Level) and YCT (Intermediate Level).

 

Writing Test		Speaking Test
YCT (Level IV)		YCT (Intermediate Level)
YCT (Level III)		YCT (Beginner Level)
YCT (Level II)
YCT (Level I)

                 

II. Test Levels

The different levels of the new YCT 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	New YCT	Vocabulary	CLPS	CEF
HSK (Level VI)		Over 5,000	Level V	C2
HSK (Level V)		2,500			C1
HSK (Level IV)		1,200	Level IV	B2
HSK (Level III)	YCT (Level IV)	600	Level III	B1
HSK (Level II)	YCT (Level III)	300	Level II	A2
HSK (Level I)	YCT (Level II)	150	Level I	A1
	YCT (Level I)	80

 

Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level I) can understand and use some of the most common Chinese phrases and sentences and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.

New YCT Level I

 

The YCT (Level I) assesses test takers' ability in daily use of Chinese. Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level I) can understand and use some of the most common Chinese phrases and sentences and possess the ability to further their Chinese language studies.

 

I. Test Target

The YCT (Level I) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for three months, with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 80 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The YCT (Level I) test is made up of listening comprehension and reading comprehension sections and contains a total of 35 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	5	20	About 10
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
		Part IV			5
	II. Reading	Part I			5	15	15
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
Filling out the answer sheet				5
Total	/	35		About 30

 

The duration of the test is 35 minutes (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a sentence and a picture will be provided. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a phrase and 3 pictures will be provided. The test takers should choose a picture that best corresponds with the phrase based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a sentence and a picture will be provided. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a dialogue and 3 pictures will be provided. The test takers should choose the corresponding picture based on what they hear.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item consists of a picture and a phrase. The test taker should judge whether or not they are consistent with each other.

There are 5 items in Part II. Several pictures will be displayed on the paper. A sentence will be provided for each item. The test taker should choose the corresponding picture based on the sentence.

There are 5 items in Part III. Each item consists of a picture and an incomplete dialogue. There will be 6 possible answers from which the test taker needs to choose the best answer.

 

All the items on the test paper are displayed in pinyin.

 

III. Results Certificate

The results of YCT are valid for a considerable period of time. Three results will be provided for the YCT (Level I),) including listening, reading and the total. A score of 120 or more is considered a passing score.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Total	200

Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level II) can understand and use some simple Chinese phrases and sentences and cope with basic level communications.

New YCT Level II

 

The YCT (Level II) tests test takers' ability in daily use of Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level I of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level II) can understand and use some simple Chinese phrases and sentences and cope with basic level communications.

 

I. Test Target

The YCT (Level II) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for a semester (half an academic year), with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 150 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The YCT (Level II) test is made up of listening comprehension and reading comprehension sections and contains a total of 40 items.

 

Section			Number of Items			Duration (Min)
I. Listening		Part I	5		20	About 15
				Part II			5
				Part III			5
				Part IV			5
		II. Reading		Part I			5		20	25
				Part II			5
				Part III			5
				Part IV			5
Filling out the answer sheet						5
Total	/			40		About 45

 

The test will last for a total of 50 minutes (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a phrase and a picture will be provided. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a sentence and several pictures will be provided. The test takers should select corresponding pictures based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a dialogue and 3 pictures will be provided. The test takers should choose the corresponding picture based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a question and three possible answers. Test takers need to choose the right answer based on what they hear.

 

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item consists of picture and a phrase. The test taker should judge whether or not they are consistent with each other.

There are 5 items in Part II. Several pictures will be displayed on the paper. For each item, a dialogue will be provided. The test taker needs to choose the corresponding picture based on the dialogue.

There are 5 items in Part III. This section consists of 5 questions and 5 answers for the test taker to match.

There are 5 items in Part IV. Each item consists of an incomplete dialogue. There will be 6 possible answers from which the test taker needs to choose the best answer.

 

All the items on the test paper are displayed in pinyin.

 

III. Results Certificate

The results of YCT are valid for a considerable period of time. Three results will be provided for the YCT (Level I),) including listening, reading and the total. A score of 120 or more is considered a passing score.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Total	200

Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level III), having reached an excellent level in basic Chinese, can communicate on familiar daily topics in a simple manner.

New YCT Level Ⅲ

 

The YCT (Level III) tests test takers' ability in daily use of Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level II of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A2 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level III), having reached an excellent level in basic Chinese, can communicate on familiar daily topics in a simple manner.

 

I. Test Target

The YCT (Level III) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for two semesters (one academic year), with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 300 common words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The YCT (Level III) test is made up of listening comprehension and reading comprehension sections and contains a total of 60 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	10	35	About 20
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			5
	II. Reading	Part I			5	25	25
		Part II			5
		Part III			5
		Part IV			10
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	60		About 55

 

The test will last for a total of 60 minutes (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a sentence and a picture will be provided. Test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. Several pictures will be displayed on the paper. For each item, a dialogue will be provided, and the test takers should choose the corresponding picture based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a question and three possible answers. Test takers need to choose the best answer based on what they hear.

There are 5 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons, followed by a question about the dialogue. There will be three possible answers on the test paper, from which the test takers can choose the right one based on what they hear.

 

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. There will be several pictures on the test paper. For each item, a dialogue will be provided. The test taker needs to choose the corresponding picture based on the dialogue.

There are 5 items in Part II. Each item consists of a picture and 3 sentences. The test taker needs to choose the sentence that corresponds with the picture.

There are 10 items in Part III. Each item consists of a question and 3 possible answers. The test taker needs to choose the best answer.

There are 10 items in Part IV. Each item consists of a dialogue with a blank section. The test taker should choose one of the 3 suggested words to fill in the blank.

 

All the items on the test paper are provided displayed in pinyin.

 

III. Results Certificate

The results of YCT are valid for a considerable period of time. Three results will be provided for the YCT (Level I),) including listening, reading and the total. A score of 120 or more is considered a passing score.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Total	200

Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level IV) can communicate in Chinese at a basic level in their daily, academic and professional lives. When travelling in China, they can manage most forms of communication in Chinese.

New YCT Level Ⅳ

 

The YCT (Level IV) tests test takers' ability in daily use of Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level III of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the B1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the YCT (Level IV) can communicate in Chinese at a basic level in their daily, academic and professional lives. When travelling in China, they can manage most forms of communication in Chinese.

 

I. Test Target

The YCT (Level V) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for more than two semesters, with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 600 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

II. Test Content

The YCT (Level IV) test is made up of listening comprehension, reading comprehension and writing sections and contains a total of 80 items.

 

Section		Number of Items		Duration (Min)
I. Listening	Part I	10	40	About 30
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			10
	II. Reading	Part I			5	30	25
		Part II			10
		Part III			10
		Part IV			5
	III. Writing	Part I			5	10	15
		Part II			5
Filling out the answer sheet				10
Total	/	80		About 80

 

The test will last for a total of 85 minutes (including 5 minutes in which the test takers fill in personal information).

 

1. Listening Comprehension

There are 10 items in Part I. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a dialogue and a picture will be provided. The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part II. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, 3 sentences and 3 pictures will be provided. The test takers should choose the sentence that corresponds with the picture based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part III. The recording of each item will be played twice. Each item consists of a dialogue between two persons followed by a question. There will be three possible answers on the test paper. Test takers can choose best answer based on what they hear.

There are 10 items in Part IV. The recording of each item will be played twice. For each item, a short passage will be read out. A sentence will be displayed on the test paper (with pinyin). The test takers should make a true-or-false judgment based on what they hear.

 

2. Reading Comprehension

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item consists of a picture and 3 sentences. The test taker needs to choose the sentence that corresponds with the picture.

There are 10 items in Part II. In this section, there are 20 sentences divided into 2 groups. The test taker should match them.

There are 10 items in Part III. Each item consists of a dialogue with a blank section. The test taker should choose one of the 3 suggested words to fill in the blank.

There are 10 items in Part IV. Each item consists of a passage and a question. The test taker needs to choose the correct answer out of 3 possible answers.

 

3. Writing

There are 5 items in Part I. Each item consists of several words. The test taker should construct a sentence using these words.

There are 5 items in Part II. Each item provides a sentence with blanks. The test taker should fill in the blanks with the right characters.

 

III. Results Certificate

The results of YCT are valid for a considerable period of time. Four results will be provided for the YCT (Level I),) including listening, reading, writing and the total. A score of 180 or more is considered a passing score.

 

	Max Score	Your Score
Listening	100
Reading	100
Writing	100
Total	300

Speaking Test(Beginner Level)

 

The YCT Speaking Test (Beginner Level) assesses test takers' ability to expressing themselves orally in Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level I and Level II of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the A Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the YCT Speaking Test (Beginner Level) can understand and use familiar everyday expressions that meet specific needs for communication.

 

. Test Target

The YCT (Beginner Level) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for 1-2 semesters, with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 200 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

.Test Content

The YCT Speaking Test (Beginner Level) is made up of three parts and contains a total of 25 items.

 

Section		Number of Items	Duration (Min)
Part I	Listen and Repeat	15	4
Part II	Listen and Reply	5	2
Part III	Describe Pictures	5	4
Total		25	10

 

The test will last for a total of 17 minutes (including 7 minutes for preparation).

There are 15 items in Part I. For each item, a sentence recording will be played. The test taker should repeat the sentence.

There are 5 items in Part II. For each item, the recording of a question will be played. The test taker should provide a brief answer.

There are 5 items in Part III. Each item consists of a picture. The test taker should use 2-3 sentences to say something based on the picture.

 

. Results Certificate

The maximum score of the YCT Speaking Test (Beginner Level) is 100. A score of 60 or higher is considered a passing score.

 

Max Score	Passing Score	Your Score
100	60

 

Speaking Test(Intermediate Level)

 

The YCT Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) assesses test takers' ability to expressing themselves orally in Chinese. It is the counterpart of the Level III of the Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and the B1 Level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEF). Test takers who are able to pass the YCT Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) can understand simple spoken Chinese and engage in basic communication with native Chinese speakers.

 

. Test Target

The YCT (Intermediate Level) is intended for young students who have studied Chinese for more than two semesters, with 2-3 class hours per week. These students have mastered 400 commonly used words and related grammar patterns.

 

. Test Content

The YCT Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) is made up of three parts and contains a total of 14 items.

 

Section		Number of Items	Duration (Min)
Part I	Listen and Repeat	10	3
Part II	Describe Pictures	2	3
Part III	Answer the Questions	2	3
Total		14	9

 

The test will last a total of 19 minutes (including 10 minutes for preparation).

There are 10 items in Part I. For each item, a sentence recording will be played. The test taker should repeat the sentence.

There are 2 items in Part II. Each item consists of a picture. The test taker should write a passage based on the picture.

There are 2 items in Part III. The test taker should answer the two questions (using pinyin).

 

. Results Certificate

The maximum score of the YCT Speaking Test (Intermediate Level) is 100. A score of 60 or higher is considered a passing score.

 

Max Score	Passing Score	Your Score
100	60

III. Test Principles

The new YCT aims to improve Chinese language learners' self-confidence and follows the principle of “test-teaching correlation”. It bases the design of the test on current trends in international Chinese language training and is closely related to textbook learning procedures. The purpose of the test is to “promote training through testing” and “promote learning through testing”.

 

IV. Test Purposes

The YCT is intended for students whose mother tongue is not Chinese. The results of the test can serve various purposes:

1. A method for Chinese language learners to assess and improve their proficiency in Chinese.

2. A reference for Chinese language training in schools.

3. A method for Chinese language training institutions to evaluate training results.

4. A benchmark for students who want to participate in the HSK test.

 

V. Results Certificate

Test takers will receive their test results for the new YCT issued by Hanban within three weeks after the test.

The Confucius Institute at Maryland is now offering the two standardized tests that certify Chinese language proficiency, the HSK and the TCFL.

Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK)

HSK is the abbreviation of the Chinese Pinyin, or romanization, of the test name Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi. The Chinese Proficiency Test is a series of tests to assess the Chinese language proficiency of non-native Chinese speakers. The HSK assesses the examine ability to communicate in Chinese, and to use it in the context of studying in educational institutions, business enterprises and other organizations.

Next HSK Test Dates:

• May 16 and October 17, 2010

• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each test date. Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels.

• Registration fee for each test: $10.

• Test administration fees: Beg: $35; Intermediate: $45; Advanced: $55.

• Register by May 1 for Spring test.

• Register by October 1 for Fall test.

• Register by mail or in person at CIM: 0134 Holzapfel Hall, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
  Test Site: Confucius Institute at the University of Maryland: 0134 Holzapfel Hall
  Test Registration: Please download the HSK registration form and send it to us via email or via our mailing address.

• Needed for registration: fees and form; 2 recent, identical 1x2 in. photos; copy of photo ID.

Preparation Classes for the HSK:
In advance of a test date, we offer optional preparation classes. If you are interested in the HSK, please email Rebecca McGinnis for test and preparation class dates.
Practice site: 0134 Holzapfel Hall, University of Maryland

Fees for the practice sessions are $25 per session. There is no need to attend each practice session, but the content will be varied for each one. You may attend one or more, or all six practice sessions. Please complete the registration form and forward it to us via email.

Test for Certifying Teachers to Teach Chinese as a Foreign Language (TCFL)

This test assesses the qualifications of Chinese and foreign educators interested in teaching Chinese as a foreign language (TCFL). The TCFL test assists the Chinese Ministry of Education in selecting teachers to be sent abroad by the Chinese government, and for recommending Chinese candidates to foreign institutions and organizations to teach Chinese language. Three test levels have been established: preliminary, mid-level, and advanced.

In order to raise the quality of teaching Chinese as a foreign language and produce more and better teachers of Chinese as a foreign language, Chinas Ministry of Education has outlined the Measures for Certifying Teachers Ability to Teach Chinese as a Foreign Language. You can visit the Hanban website for more information.

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