Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) Chinese Proficiency Test

The Confucius Institute at the University of Minnesota will offer the new HSK once in 2012. Testing is open to anyone. This page provides general information about the HSK, including the new six levels of the writing test, three new levels of the oral test, the University of Minnesota testing dates, fees, and registration procedures.

• What is the HSK?
• What makes the new HSK different?
• How do I know which level to take?
• What are HSK test scores used for?
• Test dates at the University of Minnesota
• Fees
• How do I register?
• Test results

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What is the HSK?

The HSK is a standardized international Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers. The HSK tests students’ ability to apply Chinese language in their studies, personal life and work.

What makes the new HSK different?

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.

The new type of examination consists of two independent parts; a written test and an oral test. There are six levels to the written test and three levels of the oral test. The Confucius Institute at the University of Minnesota will administer the written test on specific test dates and will offer the oral tests at the request of individuals. Those interested in taking the oral test should contact the Confucius Institute at the University of Minnesota to discuss their options.

The new levels of the HSK written test were developed to match with Chinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages and The Common European Framework Reference for Language. A comparison of these measurements:

How do I know which level to take?

Descriptions of the six levels of the exam are provided below. A study guide with sample exam is available for HSK Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 (see below). Additional online practice tests are available at www.chinesetesting.cn/gosimexam.do and english.chinese.cn/onlinelearning/node_23207.htm

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. The exam includes a listening section and a reading section and is 40 minutes in length. Sample exam [PDF].

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. The exam includes a listening section and a reading section and is 55 minutes in length. Sample exam [PDF].

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 a visit to China. The exam includes a listening section, a reading section and a writing section and is 90 minutes in length. Sample exam [PDF]. Sample listening text [PDF].

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. The exam includes a listening section, a reading section and a writing section and is 105 minutes in length. Sample exam [PDF]. Sample listening text [PDF].

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. The exam includes a listening section, a reading section and a writing section and is 120 minutes in length.

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.  The exam includes a listening section, a reading section and a writing section and is 135 minutes in length.

What are HSK test scores used for?

Test scores are used by different organizations and groups of people. The exam

• Offers a reference for educational institutions to recruit students, classify students, exempt students from some courses and grant credits;
• Offers a reference for employers to employ, train and promote employees;
• Offers a reference for Chinese learners to understand and improve their ability to apply Chinese;
• Offers a reference for related Chinese teaching institutions or training organizations to evaluate teaching standards and the effectiveness of different training.  

Test dates at the University of Minnesota

In 2012, The University of Minnesota will offer all levels of the HSK written and oral tests on Sunday, October 21. K-12 Chinese language teachers who would like to have Confucius Institute staff administer the written HSK to 20 or more students at their school should contact the Confucius Institute for additional information.

Fees

Written Test:

HSK Level 1 $20
HSK Level 2 $30
HSK Level 3 $40
HSK Level 4 $50
HSK Level 5 $60
HSK Level 6 $70

Oral Test:

HSK Elementary $20
HSK Intermediate $30
HSK Advanced $40

Fees and registration for the HSK are NON-REFUNDABLE. If an applicant cancels his/her registration more than 48 hours in advance of the test date, the registration and fees may be applied to a test date in the same calendar year, if available. Any registrations cancelled after the 48-hour deadline will not be rescheduled and all fees forfeited.

How do I register?

At this time students may register for any level of the HSK written test. Registration materials must be received by the deadlines provided. For 2012 the registration deadline is as follows:

• September 15 for the October 21 test

1. Fill out the HSK Registration form.
2. Attach two recent passport sized photos (2”x2”).
3. A copy of government-issued photo-ID (e.g., passport or drivers license).
4. Send your application, photos, ID copy, and a check payable to the University of Minnesota:

Confucius Institute at the University of Minnesota
160 University International Center
331-17th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55414

You will receive a confirmation of your registration and final instructions for your test date upon receipt of your registration.

NOTE: If you would like to take the HSK in traditional, rather than simplified, Chinese characters, please indicate this on the HSK Registration form.

Test results

Within three weeks after the test, examinees can access their test scores on the Confucius Institute Headquarters web site. Hard copies of the official score report will be sent to the Confucius Institute and then forwarded to the examinee.