HSK & HSKK

HSK & HSKK

Types of tests

HSK language-proficiency test: Mandarin for general use
HSKK language-proficiency test: Oral test

What is HSK?

HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) is the only official standardized exam for assessing Chinese language proficiency among non-native speakers. It is a key admission requirement for international students applying to Chinese universities and scholarships. Each year, over 300,000 international students study in China, and millions of candidates worldwide take the HSK as proof of their Mandarin ability.Make an impact, and share your organization’s stats or achievements to interest your website visitors into learning more about you.

Overview of HSK Levels

The tests are conducted at 9 levels, from beginner to advanced

HSK Level 1

Beginners who can understand and use simple Chinese characters and sentences to communicate in basic situations.

HSK Level 2

Beginners who can use Chinese in simple, direct ways for daily communication.

HSK Level 3

Beginners who can understand and use simple Chinese characters and sentences to communicate in basic situations.

HSK Level 4

Intermediate learners who can discuss a wide range of topics and communicate fluently with Chinese speakers.

HSK Level 5

Advanced learners who can read newspapers and magazines, watch Chinese films, and deliver longer speeches or written texts in Chinese.

HSK Level 6

Advanced learners who can easily understand Chinese in any context and express themselves fluently in writing and speech.

HSK Level 7-9

Designed for learners aiming for professional or near-native proficiency, capable of understanding complex texts, conducting academic research, and engaging in professional translation or communication.

What is HSKK?

The HSKK (Chinese Speaking Test) assesses non-native speakers’ oral Chinese proficiency across three levels: primary, intermediate, and advanced. Conducted via audio recording, it evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in everyday, academic, and professional contexts. Many programs give priority to applicants who have taken the HSKK test with a valid score.

Why Do I Need to Take Language-Proficiency Tests?

Your HSK and HSKK results can open doors to a range of opportunities, including:

  • College enrollment, level placement, scholarship application, course exemptions, and credit recognition;
  • Employee recruitment, training, and promotion
  • Evaluation of teaching quality at schools, colleges, and other educational institutions
  • Supporting learners’ self-assessment of their Chinese proficiency

Find more information about the HSK and locate your nearest test center here: