Are you ready to show off your Chinese language skills and take your knowledge to the next level? 

Introducing the HSK

Then the HSK (汉语水平考试, or Chinese Proficiency Test) is the perfect opportunity for you! This widely recognized and respected test is designed to assess the proficiency of non-native speakers in Chinese. Whether you’re just starting to learn the language or you’ve been studying for years, there’s an HSK level that’s right for you – the test is offered at six different levels, from beginner to advanced. The HSK includes listening, reading, and writing sections, so it’s a great chance to demonstrate your dedication and hard work. Don’t wait – start preparing for the HSK today and see where your Chinese language skills can take you!

Kungfucius says

What makes Chinese books dangerous? There are so many radicals in them! 

Comparing HSK to CEFR

The HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, or Chinese Proficiency Test) is offered at six different levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. These levels can be compared to the levels of European language tests such as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The HSK Level 1 is equivalent to the CEFR A1 level, while HSK Level 2 is equivalent to CEFR A2. HSK Level 3 is equivalent to CEFR B1, HSK Level 4 is equivalent to CEFR B2, HSK Level 5 is equivalent to CEFR C1, and HSK Level 6 is equivalent to CEFR C2… or is it? 

In practice, some people including yours sincerely have found that HSK Level 6 is actually more comparable to CEFR C1, while HSK Level 5 is more similar to CEFR B2. But don’t worry, it’s not like you’re trying to climb a never-ending staircase of language proficiency or anything (we hope). Just do your best and aim for the level that’s right for you!

HSK Levels explained: 

HSK Level 1: The basics of Chinese language

HSK Level 1 is the beginner level of the Chinese Proficiency Test, designed for those who are just starting to learn the language. It consists of about 150 words and basic grammar structures, and the main goal is to establish a foundation for further language learning. Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 1 include:

• 你好 (nǐ hǎo) – “Hello”
• 谢谢 (xiè xiè) – “Thank you”
• 我 (wǒ) – “I”
• 好 (hǎo) – “Good”

HSK Level 1 focuses on basic communication skills, such as introducing yourself and making simple requests. It is an important stepping stone for those who are just starting to learn Chinese and want to build a solid foundation in the language.

HSK Level 2: Building a Stronger Chinese Language Foundation

HSK Level 2 is the next level up from HSK Level 1, and it is designed for those who have a basic foundation in Chinese and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It consists of about 300 words and covers more advanced grammar structures. The main goal of HSK Level 2 is to develop basic communicative skills and enable learners to handle basic social situations in Chinese.

Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 2 include:

• 在哪里 (zài nǎ lǐ) – “Where is [something]?”
• 你是谁 (nǐ shì shéi) – “Who are you?”
• 这是什么 (zhè shì shén me) – “What is this?”
• 可以 (kě yǐ) – “Can [I do something]?”

HSK Level 2 builds on the skills learned at Level 1 and helps learners develop more advanced communication skills and the ability to handle basic social situations in Chinese. It is an important step for those who are serious about improving their Chinese language skills.

HSK Level 3: Developing Intermediate Chinese Language Skills

HSK Level 3 is the intermediate level of the Chinese Proficiency Test, designed for those who have a solid foundation in the language and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It consists of about 600 words and covers more advanced grammar structures. The main goal of HSK Level 3 is to enable learners to communicate effectively in Chinese in a variety of social and academic settings.

Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 3 include:

• 电视 (diàn shì) – “Television”
• 自行车 (zì xíng chē) – “Bicycle”
• 在哪儿工作 (zài nǎr gōng zuò) – “Where do you work?”
• 请问 (qǐng wèn) – “Excuse me, may I ask…”

HSK Level 3 helps learners develop intermediate Chinese language skills and the ability to communicate effectively in a variety of social and academic settings. As Confucius said, “To be able to practice five things everywhere under heaven constitutes perfect virtue.” (能行五经，於天下为仁也). In other words, by continuing to learn and improve your Chinese language skills, you can become a more virtuous and well-rounded person.

HSK Level 4: Advancing Your Chinese Language Skills

HSK Level 4 is the advanced level of the Chinese Proficiency Test, designed for those who have a strong foundation in the language and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It consists of about 1200 words and covers even more advanced grammar structures. The main goal of HSK Level 4 is to enable learners to communicate effectively in Chinese in a variety of social and academic settings.

Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 4 include:

• 家庭 (jiā tíng) – “Family”
• 政府 (zhèng fǔ) – “Government”
• 生活 (shēng huó) – “Life”
• 国际 (guó jì) – “International”

HSK Level 4 helps learners advance their Chinese language skills and become proficient in a variety of social and academic settings. It’s the perfect level for those who want to take their Chinese language skills to the next level… or as we like to say, level up their Mandarin game.

HSK Level 5: Mastering Chinese Language Skills

HSK Level 5 is the highest level of the Chinese Proficiency Test, designed for those who have a strong foundation in the language and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It consists of about 2500 words and covers advanced grammar structures. The main goal of HSK Level 5 is to enable learners to communicate effectively in Chinese in a variety of social and academic settings.

Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 5 include:

• 环境 (huán jìng) – “Environment”
• 哲学 (zhé xué) – “Philosophy”
• 经济 (jīng jì) – “Economy”
• 艺术 (yì shù) – “Art”

HSK Level 5 helps learners master Chinese language skills and become proficient in a variety of social and academic settings. Some examples of sentences typical of HSK Level 5 include:

• 中国有很多古老的建筑。 (Zhōng guó yǒu hěn duō gǔ lǎo de jiàn zhù.) – “China has many ancient buildings.”
• 这个计划对环境有很大的影响。 (Zhè gè jì huà duì huán jìng yǒu hěn dà de yǐng xiǎng.) – “This plan has a significant impact on the environment.”
• 哲学是一门探讨人类意义和真理的学科。 (Zhé xué shì yī mén tàn tǎo rén lèi yì yì hé zhēn lǐ de xué kē.) – “Philosophy is a subject that investigates the meaning and truth of human existence.”

HSK Level 6: Achieving Proficiency in Chinese Language

HSK Level 6 is the highest level of the Chinese Proficiency Test, designed for those who have mastered Chinese language skills and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It consists of about 5000 words and covers advanced grammar structures. The main goal of HSK Level 6 is to enable learners to communicate effectively in Chinese in a variety of social and academic settings.

Some examples of words and phrases that you might encounter on the HSK Level 6 include:

• 文化 (wén huà) – “Culture”
• 历史 (lì shǐ) – “History”
• 学术 (xué shù) – “Academics”
• 科技 (kē jì) – “Technology”

HSK Level 6 helps learners achieve proficiency in Chinese language and become proficient in a variety of social and academic settings. Some examples of sentences typical of HSK Level 6 include:

• 中国有着悠久的文化历史。 (Zhōng guó yǒu zhe yōu jiǔ de wén huà lì shǐ.) – “China has a long cultural history.”
• 在学术界，他是一位著名的专家。 (Zài xué shù jiè, tā shì yī wèi zhù míng de zhuān jiā.) – “In academia, he is a well-known expert.”
• 科技的发展正在影响着我们的生活方式。 (Kē jì de fā zhǎn zhèng zài yǐng xiǎng zhe wǒ men de shēng huó fāng shì.) – “The development of technology is impacting our way of life.”
• HSK Level 6 is the highest level of the Chinese Proficiency Test and is designed for those who have mastered Chinese language skills and are ready to take their skills to the next level. It is a challenging level, but by achieving proficiency in Chinese language, you’ll be able to communicate effectively in a variety of social and academic settings and truly master the language.

The Importance of HSK for University Admissions in China

If you’re considering studying at a university in China, it’s important to know that the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, or Chinese Proficiency Test) is often required for admission. The HSK is a standardized test that measures a person’s proficiency in Chinese language and is offered at six different levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. Different universities in China may have different requirements for the HSK, but generally, it is expected that applicants have at least reached HSK Level 3 (intermediate level) in order to be considered for admission. Some universities may require a higher HSK level, such as Level 4 or 5, depending on the program of study. By taking the HSK and achieving the required level, you can demonstrate to universities in China that you have the necessary Chinese language skills to succeed in your studies. 

It’s important to note that even if a university provides language courses for foreign students, if the courses in your desired academic field are conducted in Chinese, it is usually expected that you have achieved a HSK Level 6 (advanced level) in order to succeed in your studies. This advanced level may take 6-12 months of daily Mandarin lessons to achieve starting from a strong foundation at HSK Level 3. As a foreign student, you may also need to put in extra effort to fully understand the material and keep up with the classes. By putting in the work and dedication, you can reach your goals and succeed in your studies in China.

HSK Levels and Visa Requirements in China

If you’re planning to study, work, or live in China, you may need a visa to enter the country. Depending on your purpose of travel, the type of visa you need may vary. For example, if you’re planning to study in China, you may need a student visa. If you’re planning to work in China, you may need a work visa. In order to apply for a visa, you may need to provide proof of your Chinese language proficiency. This is where the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, or Chinese Proficiency Test) comes in. The HSK is a standardized test that measures a person’s proficiency in Chinese language and is offered at six different levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. By taking the HSK and achieving a certain level, you can demonstrate to the Chinese government that you have the necessary Chinese language skills to live, work, or study in China. The required HSK level may vary depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for your situation. By preparing for and taking the HSK, you can increase your chances of obtaining a visa for China and achieving your goals in the country.