What is the HSK?
CTI's own definition: an international standardised test that assesses how non-native speakers use Chinese in daily life, study and work.
Unofficial study site · every figure links to an official source
Key facts
| Full name | Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi — Chinese Proficiency Test (汉语水平考试 / 中文水平考试) |
| Run by | Chinese Testing International (CTI), under the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC) |
| Levels | 9 levels in 3 bands from 13 Dec 2026; Levels 7–9 are one exam |
| Skills | Listening, reading and writing; speaking papers for Levels 3–6; Levels 7–9 add translation and speaking in the same exam |
| Formats | Paper-based or computer-based at a test centre |
| Test days | 11 per year for HSK 1–6, 2 for HSK 7–9 (2027 calendar) |
| Results | About 15 days (computer) or a month (paper) |
| Validity | Two years from the test date as proof of proficiency |
| Fee | Set by each test centre; shown when you register |
The nine levels
| Band | Levels | Cumulative words |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary | 1 · 2 · 3 | 300 · 500 · 1,000 |
| Intermediate | 4 · 5 · 6 | 2,000 · 3,600 · 5,400 |
| Advanced | 7–9 | 11,000 |
Related tests from the same organisation
- HSKK — the HSK speaking test, taken by audio recording (Primary, Intermediate, Advanced).
- YCT — for primary and secondary school students.
- BCT — business Chinese.
- Not from CTI: the CSCA (undergraduate admission test, run by the China Scholarship Council) and Taiwan's TOCFL.
What people use it for
- Scholarships: the Chinese Government Scholarship asks for HSK 3 or 4 for Chinese-taught programmes.
- University admission: top universities ask for HSK 5 or 6 for Chinese-taught bachelor's degrees.
- Work in China: up to 5 points on the work-permit points table.
- A measurable goal for your own learning.
University requirements · Scholarships · Work permit · Which level to take
Frequently asked
What does HSK stand for?
Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, the Chinese Proficiency Test — the international standardised Chinese test run by Chinese Testing International.
Who runs the HSK?
Chinese Testing International (CTI), under the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC).
How many HSK levels are there?
Nine in three bands from 13 December 2026.
Our HSK 4 papers are original and follow the HSK 3.0 Level 4 written structure (70 items). Instant mock score, section drills, a mistake bank and an 8-item daily set. Not past papers, never recalled papers.
Keep reading
Official sources
- Chinese Test Service (CTI): introduction to HSK, HSKK, YCT and BCT
- Chinese Test Service Website: About the new HSK
- CTI notice: HSK 3.0 officially launched worldwide on 13 Dec 2026 (dates and registration deadlines)
- Official new HSK syllabus (CLEC, published 2025-11, in force 2026-07), PDF
- Chinese Test Service (CTI): 2027 test calendar for HSK, HSK speaking, HSK 7–9, YCT and BCT
- Chinese Test Service Website: information for candidates (registration, refunds, results)
Checked 2026-11-13. HSK Sprint is an independent study service, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC / 语合中心), Chinese Testing International or the official HSK. All papers and audio are original. Always confirm details with chinesetest.cn and your test centre.