What is HSK?
Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (汉语 水平 考试), also known as HSK, is a standardized testing system for students who study Chinese as a foreign language - think of TOEFL and you will basically understand the concept with the exception that in HSK there are only three sections: listening, writing, and speaking. It was elaborated in 1984 by Beijing Language and Culture University as a way of determining Chinese level of students using a standardized set of parameters. In 2010, a new HSK was introduced to take into account modifications in teaching methods in China in order to reflect a modern way of learning Chinese.
HSK exam consists of six levels: from 1) very simple phrases and basic words to 6), fluently expressing yourself among native speakers in Chinese, also in writing (Hanzi). Everyone who takes HSK in China takes the test and is checked in Hanban, the headquarters of Institute of Confucius. Usually, you have to wait up to three weeks before you get your results, after that you receive your beautiful certificate and celebrate your achievement.
Why to take HSK?
People take HSK for several reasons, but the most common are:
1. They need a certificate to enter the university
2. It will help with applying for a job
3. Determining a goal helps to learn
4. To receive an HSK scholarship
1) Some university programs require you to study in Chinese. For example, if you want to get a diploma in the field of Asian studies, international business, Chinese language (language and culture) and many more. These programs generally require HSK 4 or 5 because you have to follow a few courses in Chinese. Keep in mind that if you're applying for a university, the HSK is only valid for two years.
2) You've heard it so many times and here it comes again - the Chinese economy is becoming increasingly dominant in the world, and international companies see China as a market, a place for the production, a competitor or a partner. That's why the understanding of Chinese culture and business etiquette is now a common part of a desired skillset among new employees and a great way to stand out when you are looking for a job. Especially if you have just graduated, it's hard to compete against employees with many years of work experience, so you have an advantage if you have a special skill. A certificate about Chinese knowledge not only opens many doors for you, but will also make everyone talk!
3) Doing something without any clear objective requires much more self-discipline that most of us actually have. Attending class after class and writing the same characters again and again becomes a hard task if you don't feel like you are approaching your goal. That's why HSK can be a good thing to aim for. The feeling that you are approaching your goal will not only help you find motivation when you need it, but also give you a chance to focus on your classes.
4) As an encouragement for students who study Chinese, The Ministry of Education of China and National Directorate for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language grant scholarships to students who achieve high results at HSK exams. Scholarships will allow you to go on a funded study trip to China to continue the advancement of your Chinese and become more integrated into the Chinese culture.
HSK levels
HSK 1 (corresponds to A1)
You can take HSK 1 when you understand and know how to use simple words and sentences. At this level, there is no complicated grammar but you have to practice your tones. Take the online test to learn whether you are able to pass HSK 1.
HSK 2 (corresponds to A2)
At this level, your Chinese is elementary and you use most of the basic phrases and can go about your daily routine in Chinese. Take this online test to learn whether you are able to pass HSK 2.
HSK 3 (corresponds to B1)
You achieved a deeper understanding of Chinese language and can talk about your life, studies or work, and can make plans in Chinese. Take the online test to learn whether you can pass HSK 3.
HSK 4 (corresponds to B2)
Now you speak fluently and can even cover topics which are not basic. Well done! Your vocabulary is very good, you can read newspaper articles and do not rely on English anymore. Take this online test to learn whether you can pass HSK 4.
HSK 5 (corresponds to C1)
With HSK 5, you can live and work in China speaking only Chinese. Though you can't quite communicate as well as the locals, you are doing really well. You don't need subtitles in movies and you can read about current events in Chinese online media instead of your native language. Take this online test to learn whether you are able to pass HSK 5.
HSK 6 (corresponds to C2)
You are a rock star! You are fluently speaking in Chinese. What else is there to say? You might not know every word or character, but who actually does?
What do you need to pass HSK?
For most people, learning a new language is hard work. There is no easy way to learn the grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation of a completely different language. That's why some learning methods work better than others. At Hutong School, we believe in immersion! That means that in our opinion you learn a new language better when you are surrounded by a language and culture. Of course, you can learn Chinese anywhere, but your progress will not be as fast as in China, where you are surrounded by native speakers and have to use your Chinese during the classes as well as the rest of the time.
For all HSK levels, the list of the words you have to know will increase. For pronunciation, you need an excellent teacher who will correct you until you reach the right tones and can distinguish your z and zh. When you are outside the school, you can improve your listening skills and practice your pronunciation online, for instance with ChinesePod: with the enormous choice of podcasts about different topics and levels, you can find what corresponds with your level and your interests.
On your way to and from work, listen to podcasts and it will gradually become easier. There are many special study materials that we encourage you to check out and choose the ones which suit you the most. Everyone has their own method, so unfortunately there is no right way to prepare for an HSK exam. One of our personal favorites is exhaustive guidance from FluentU, and of course, there are many online sources which can help you study.
Can I read in Chinese without HSK 6?
You might feel as though achieving a higher HSK level is very far away. You might like to start to actually use your Chinese for something else besides doing your homework and give directions to a taxi driver. Recently, we started to read articles of Bao Bah how to use our Chinese language for something more interesting than homework. All the articles are based on HSK that's why already from HSK 3 you can start reading real articles about current events. You will be surprised how much you can understand when an article is written in simple words and grammar.
Another option is to start reading everything around you: subway signs, menus and billboards. There are characters all around you, and you're likely to recognize more than you expect. You can also use dictionaries to turn your subway ride into a treasure hunt - every day find a new character, translate it with the app and add it to your list of characters.
What does the HSK include?
HSK includes sections of listening, reading and writing. Depending on the level of HSK which you take, you will get more and more difficult questions and the exam will also last longer. Check your level here to find out if you are ready for the exam. Below you can see everything that's included at every HSK level:
To get samples from the previous tests, check here and here.
Good luck and don't forget to tell us when you pass your HSK, and we will join for the celebration!