What is the HSK?

The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is China's official Mandarin proficiency test for non-native speakers. It evaluates your Chinese language abilities across six levels, from basic (HSK 1) to advanced (HSK 6). Currently, there has been published a new version of the exam (HSK 3.0), which includes additional levels (HSK 7-9). As of now, you can only take this version of the exam in China. More on this here.

The main test includes listening, reading and writing parts (though specifics vary by lvl). Starting from HSK 3 exam-takers must also take HSKK, which is the speaking exam. It has 3 levels : 初级 (beginner)，中级 (intermediate)，and 高级 (advanced).

Many learners use HSK as a structured roadmap for their studies, while others take the exams for academic or professional purposes.

Why should You care?

  1. As mentioned above, it is a nice roadmap. The quickest way to learn a language is by starting by memorizing the few most common 1-2k words and then immerse, which following the HSK standards can help with, as each level includes a very specific list of vocab and grammar to memorize and most of it does follow the 'from most to least common' principle.
  2. Additionally, there are tons of HSK-specific learning / teaching resources online, so knowing your HSK level helps greatly with finding suitable resources.
  3. Besides, knowing you 'cleared' a level once again by memorizing all the vocab in it boosts motivation. Of course, language learning isn't just about memorizing vocab.

It is also about passive and active skills, such as listening, reading, speaking and writing. I gathered many resources for each on this website, please feel free to explore and find something for yourself!

Resources

Mock tests