HSK stands for Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi. The literal translation is ‘Chinese level test’ and the meaning is ‘Chinese proficiency test’. The purpose of the HSK is to determine a foreigner’s Chinese language proficiency. The HSK is the Chinese equivalent of the English language proficiency TOEFL test. It is the only standardized Chinese level test recognized by the Chinese authorities and all HSK tests and test scores are administered and scored by the Hanban.
Functions of the HSK
The HSK can be used to determine employment eligibility for people required to have a certain proficiency in the Chinese language as part of their job. It can determine eligibility for an applicant applying to study at a Chinese university. The HSK can also be used for educational institutions to provide exemption or grant credit for students and to provide the foreign Chinese language learner knowledge of their ability to speak Mandarin Chinese.
The HSK, YCT and BCT
There are two extensions; these are the Youth Chinese Test (YCT) and the Business Chinese Test (BCT). The YCT is for primary and secondary school students who have been studying Mandarin and would like some validation for tertiary study opportunities, to study in China or for employment opportunities. The BCT is specialized technical language for people that wish to interpret or use Mandarin Chinese in a business setting.
The HSK format
The HSK is split into two general tests: one for reading and writing, and one for speaking and listening. The reading and writing section has six levels. The speaking and comprehension part are split into three general categories: beginner, intermediate and advanced. Unlike the previous format, speaking and writing are now components at all levels of the HSK. This new format was introduced at the end of 2009.
HSK levels
The beginner level of the speaking and listening part of the test corresponds with levels one and two of the reading and writing part. The intermediate level of the speaking and listening corresponds with levels three and four of the reading and writing and the advanced level of speaking and listening corresponds with levels five and six of the reading and writing of the test.
Reading and writing test HSK levels 1 and 2 = Speaking and listening beginner level.
Reading and writing test HSK levels 3 and 4 = Speaking and listening intermediate level.
Reading and writing test HSK levels 5 and 6 = Speaking and listening advanced level.
Chinese university entrance requirements and the HSK
Just like the TOEFL in many English-speaking countries, China also requires a certain level of Chinese language proficiency before foreigners are able to attend university. The level required for study in a Chinese university depends on what a person wants to study. HSK level three is the lowest level required, but this increases with more demanding fields of study, for example, law or physics.
The HSK gives your CV an edge
After reaching the Chinese language level you are content with, getting your HSK certificate is a great way to show others what level you have attained. Aim for the right level, register for the test at an approved venue and study in preparation for the test. If you do this, you will receive the HSK certificate, giving your CV an edge in a world where China is arising as an economic super power.
Learning Chinese can be difficult, but it is possible with diligence and determination. There are many resources you can take advantage of, with each of these programs promising different results. Some of them are promising ridiculous and unrealistic results. The basics of language learning should never be ignored, particularly when it comes to a complicated task, such as Chinese language learning.
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