Prepare for HSK

HSK is an international standardized exam that tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. It assesses non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities in using the Chinese language in their daily, academic and professional lives.

 

In January 2017, Nottingham Confucius Institute China Ningbo Branch was successfully authorized as one of the HSK test sites. We have been given the permission to administer written HSK tests level 1 to level 6, both computer-based and paper-based exam, as well as the exam for HSKK (汉语水平口语考试), Business Chinese Test (BCT) and Youth Chinese Test (YCT).

2023 HSK test dates

/ / Mar 18 Apr 9
May 14 June 11 July 16 Aug 20
Sep 16 Oct 15 Nov 18 Dec 3

We also offer HSKK once a year, please email us for further information.

The following resources should be useful for exam preparation.

 

You may use the links on the right to download our registration guide, check for available test dates and register for the exam. Please note that we offer both paper based and computer based test, you are welcome to register your preferred type according to the available service.

You will need to follow the steps below:

  • Log in or register as a new user
  • Choose test site
  • Fill out personal information
  • Upload photo
  • Submit and pay
  • Confirm registration

Please note that you are required to upload an ID photo (with white background and no hats) during this stage of the online registration. The registration guide has more details. Should you experience any difficulties in doing so, please contact Yona Yuan.

You will be given an HSK permit and full instructions after your application has been processed. You will need to bring the HSK permit along with your passport to the test centre on the day of the exam. Failure to bring either of these will prevent you from being able to enter the test venue. You will only need pencils and an eraser for the test. You are not allowed to bring dictionaries or other written materials with you.

You will be able to check the test results approximately one month after the test date on the official HSK website. You will be notified by email and WeChat group message as soon as the test certificates arrive at Nottingham Confucius Institute China Ningbo Branch. Collection can then be arranged from the Confucius Institute Office.

For further information, please send an email to us or call us on +86 (0)574 8818 0000 ext. 8340.

  • What are the fees for different levels of tests?

    HSK test fees

    HSK1HSK2HSK3HSK4HSK5HSK6
    150 RMB 250 RMB 350 RMB 450 RMB 550 RMB 650 RMB

  • When and how can I get my test result?

    The result of paper-based test will be released on the offical HSK website one month after your exam; and two weeks time is needed for the computer-based exam.

  • When and where can I collect my certificate?

    The certificate (score report) will be sent to the test center after about 45 days after the test date, please collect it at the test center by showing your Admission Ticket and valid identification document.

  • I have studied Mandarin Chinese, but have never taken any courses with the Confucius Institute. Can I still sit the HSK exams?

    Yes, you can. You don’t have to be a Confucius Institute student to take the HSK exam with us.

  • I am on the Level 2 Mandarin course. I haven’t attended any HSK exams before. Can I register for an HSK Level 2 exam, or do I have to start from Level 1?

    You can start with whichever level of test that would suit you. There are plenty of past and mock exam papers available on the official HSK website. We would advise you to do a few sets of papers before deciding on the appropriate level of test you should be taking.

  • I am currently doing the Level 3 Mandarin course. Which level of HSK exam should I choose?

    We would recommend that students studying the level 3 choose the same level of HSK. But it is also advisable to do some sample papers on the official HSK website to find out if that level is the most suitable for you. If you think it is a bit too difficult, it is advisable that you move to a lower level.