The YCT: Chinese test for school students
CTI: the YCT tests how primary and secondary school students who are not native speakers use Chinese in daily life and study. The written and speaking tests are separate.
Unofficial study site · every figure links to an official source
Written levels
| Level | Intended for (CTI) | Words |
|---|---|---|
| YCT 1 | about 3 months of Chinese, 2–3 class hours a week | 80 |
| YCT 2 | one semester, 2–3 hours a week | 150 |
| YCT 3 | two semesters (one school year) | 300 |
| YCT 4 | more than two semesters | 600 |
From CTI's YCT level pages. The registration menu on CTI's site now also lists YCT Levels 5 and 6; we have not found their official specifications yet.
Speaking: YCT Speaking (Primary) and YCT Speaking (Intermediate).
2027 test dates
| Test day | Tests | Format | Deadline (paper / computer) | Results (paper) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Jan (Sat) | Written | Paper | 27 Dec 2026 / — | 2 Mar* |
| 20 Mar (Sat) | Written | Paper + computer | 21 Feb / 10 Mar | 23 Apr* |
| 16 May (Sun) | Written + speaking | Paper + computer | 19 Apr / 6 May | 16 Jun |
| 15 Aug (Sun) | Written | Paper | 19 Jul / — | 17 Sep* |
| 16 Oct (Sat) | Written + speaking | Paper + computer | 19 Sep / 6 Oct | 16 Nov |
| 21 Nov (Sun) | Written + speaking | Paper + computer | 25 Oct / 11 Nov | 21 Dec |
* Delayed by public holidays. Computer-based written results come about two weeks after the test. The last 2026 YCT is on 22 November (deadlines passed).
Is the YCT changing with HSK 3.0?
The HSK 3.0 launch notice covers the HSK. As of 2026-11-13 we found no official notice of a new YCT format; the 2027 calendar lists the YCT as before.
YCT or HSK for a teenager?
The YCT is built around school life and younger learners. Older students aiming at university admission or scholarships in China usually need the HSK, because admission guides name HSK levels. University HSK requirements →
Frequently asked
How many YCT levels are there?
Written Levels 1–4 (CTI's registration menu also lists Levels 5 and 6) and a speaking test at Primary and Intermediate levels.
When is the YCT in 2027?
23 Jan, 20 Mar, 16 May, 15 Aug, 16 Oct and 21 Nov (official 2027 calendar).
How many words for YCT 4?
About 600 common words, per CTI.
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
- CTI: YCT Level I description
- CTI: YCT Level II description
- CTI: YCT Level III description
- CTI: YCT Level IV description
- Chinese Test Service (CTI): 2027 test calendar for HSK, HSK speaking, HSK 7–9, YCT and BCT
- CTI: 2026 test calendar (Chinese version, includes YCT and BCT)
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.