HSK Speaking Test (Beginner Level)

Introduction to the HSK Speaking Course for Beginners

The HSK (Entry Level) Speaking Exam assesses candidates’ ability to verbally express themselves in Chinese. This is equivalent to Level I and Level II of the Chinese Proficiency Scale for Speakers of Other Languages and Level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF). Candidates who pass the oral exam (entry level) are able to understand and use common everyday expressions and face specific communication needs.

1. Purpose of the HSK speaking exam for beginners

The HSK (Beginner level) Speaking Exam is for students who have taken 2-3 hours of Chinese lessons per week for 1-2 semesters. These students learn about 200 common words that they have learned during their Chinese lessons.

2. Content of the HSK speaking exam

The HSK Speaking Exam consists of three parts of 27 subjects.

The exam lasts 17 minutes (including 7 minutes of preparation).

  • In the first part there are 15 topics. A recorded sentence will be heard for each of the subjects. The candidate must repeat the sentence.
  • Part 2 – Consists of 10 topics. Each topic will contain a recording of the question. The candidate must give a short answer.
  • Part 3 – Consists of 2 items. There will be two questions on the exam paper (pinyin). The candidate must answer these questions using at least 5 sentences.

3. Results of the HSK speaking exam (beginner level)

The maximum score for the HSK oral exam (beginner level) is 100 points. A score of 60 or more is required for admission.

As a Chinese language certificate allowing international students to enroll in Chinese universities, HSK scores are valid for 2 years (from the date of the exam). It testifies to your level of Chinese and your efforts to learn Chinese.