Chinese language tests

The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) and YCT (Youth Chinese Test) are international standardised examinations that assess non-native Chinese speakers’ abilities in using Mandarin Chinese language in their daily, academic and professional lives.

Cardiff Confucius Institute is an approved test centre for the HSK and the YCT.

Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK)

HSK is the official Chinese proficiency test that is recognised by all Chinese institutions, universities and organisations. The test is recommended for students who are looking to study Chinese at university, as well as anyone seeking a recognised qualification in Mandarin Chinese.

The HSK consists of six levels, from HSK 1 (beginner) to HSK 6 (advanced).

Writing Test	Vocabulary	Speaking Test
HSK (Level VI)	Over 5,000	HSKK (Advanced Level)
HSK (Level V)	2500	HSKK (Advanced Level)
HSK (Level IV)	1200	HSKK (Intermediate Level)
HSK (Level III)	600	HSKK (Intermediate Level)
HSK (Level II)	300	HSKK (Beginner Level)
HSK (Level I)	150	HSKK (Beginner Level)

For more information about how to register, test dates and fees please visit our International Language Qualifications page on the School of Modern Languages website. For general information, please visit the Chinese Testing website.

If you have a more specific enquiry, please contact us.

Youth Chinese Test (YCT)

The YCT is specifically designed to assess young foreign students’ abilities to use Chinese in their daily and academic lives. It consists of a writing test and a speaking test, which are independent of each other. The writing test is divided into four levels and the speaking test has two levels.

Where there is a group of more than 10 candidates in any one sitting we are able to facilitate the YCT in your school setting, or alternatively we are able to welcome small groups of students to take the YCT on campus.

Please contact us for more information about how to register, test dates and costs.