HSK Certificate: Standard of Mandarin Language Competency in China

In broad terms, the HSK Certificate (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is an official document issued by the Chinese Government for individuals planning to work or study in China. This certificate assesses someone’s ability in the Mandarin language. HSK is specifically designed for non-native residents of China, such as international students, foreign scholars, newcomers planning to stay in China for over a month. However, is HSK the sole standard for measuring Mandarin language proficiency? This article will provide further explanation.

Read also: Chinese Government Scholarship: Your Gateway to a World Class Education

The Importance of the HSK Certificate

In the English language world, there are various types of tests that measure language proficiency. HSK is the only exam that evaluates Mandarin language ability with different competency levels. The HSK certificate is recognized as evidence of a person’s proficiency in Mandarin. HSK evaluates competency through tests in writing, reading, and listening to Mandarin. Additionally, there’s the HSKK test that assesses speaking ability in Mandarin. HSKK consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced.

Read also: Mastering Mandarin for Career Success – Why You Need to Learn Mandarin

History of HSK

The inception of HSK commenced in the year 1984 at Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) Eight years later, in 1992, HSK officially became a national standard examination. The HSK certificate can only be issued by Chinese Testing International, an institution led by Hanban/Confucius Institute Headquarters. Hanban is an independent institution working under the Chinese Ministry of Education, responsible for promoting Mandarin worldwide through collaboration with various educational institutions.

Read also: HSK Certificate: Standard of Mandarin Language Competency in China

Global Participation

In 2005, over 120 countries hosted HSK tests. More than 1.9 million participants from outside China have taken the HSK exam. In the year 2011, Beijing International Chinese College became the pioneer HSK testing center to conduct the examination through online administration.

Read also: Chinese Vocabulary for Beginners – Learn Chinese Easily!

Examination Levels

Since November 2009, HSK has utilized six levels (previously eleven). Levels 1 and 2 are basic, levels 3 and 4 are intermediate, and levels 5 and 6 are advanced. One’s Mandarin language proficiency can be gauged by their attained HSK level. The higher the level, the more proficient in Mandarin. However, for studying in Chinese universities or working in China, typically at least HSK level 5 must be achieved, which is the minimum requirement for undergraduate education.

Read also: Why is Learning a Foreign Language Important?

Benefits of the HSK Certificate

The HSK certificate opens many opportunities, such as expanding business with Chinese companies, working in multinational corporations, and enrolling in Chinese universities. Furthermore, the certificate also facilitates building relationships with Chinese individuals and gaining deeper insights into their culture.

Read also: Chinese Course: Learn Mandarin Easily and Effectively

Validity Period

HSK test results are usually available within three weeks after the test concludes. Both HSK and HSKK certificates are valid for two years from the date of issuance, whether the test was taken online or offline.