I.Test Structure

The new HSK is an international standardized exam that tests and rates Chineselanguage proficiency. It assesses non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities inusing the Chinese language in their daily, academic and professional lives. Thenew HSK consists of a writing test and a speaking test, which are independentof each other. There are six levels of writing tests, namely the HSK (level I),HSK (level II), HSK (level III), HSK (level IV), HSK (level V), and HSK (levelVI). There are three levels of speaking tests, namely the HSK (beginner level),HSK (intermediate level), and HSK (advanced level). During the speaking test,test takers’ speeches will be recorded.

II. Test Levels
The different levels of the new HSK are similar to some of the levels in theChinese Language Proficiency Scales for Speakers of Other Languages (CLPS) andthe Common European Framework of Reference (CEF); details are as follows:

Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (LevelI) can understand and use very simple Chinese phrases, meet basic needs forcommunication and possess the ability to further their Chinese languagestudies.
Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level II) have an excellent grasp ofbasic Chinese and can communicate in simple and routine tasksrequiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routinematters.
Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level III) can communicate in Chineseat a basic level in their daily, academic and professional lives. They canmanage most communication in Chinese when travelling in China.
Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level IV) can converse in Chinese ona wide range of topics and are able to communicate fluently with native Chinesespeakers.
Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level V) can read Chinese newspapersand magazines, enjoy Chinese films and plays, and give a full-length speech inChinese.
Test takers who are able to pass the HSK (Level VI) can easily comprehendwritten and spoken information in Chinese and can effectively expressthemselves in Chinese, both orally and on paper.