How long is an HSK score valid?

For university admission, HSK scores are usually accepted for two years from the exam date.

Do English-taught programs require HSK?

Usually not for admission, but international students take compulsory Chinese language and China overview courses, and some programs require a basic HSK level to graduate.

A new nine-level standard published in 2021 that is gradually replacing the six-level HSK. Check which version your target university accepts.

HSK Requirements for Chinese Universities

What HSK level you need for Chinese-taught bachelor's and master's programs, how long it takes to get there, and what English-taught students need.

The HSK (汉语水平考试) is China's standardized Chinese proficiency test. For Chinese-taught degrees it is the single most important requirement after your academic record. The oral test, HSKK, is sometimes required too.

Typical requirements

Program	Typical minimum
Chinese language program (non-degree)	None — all levels accepted
Chinese-taught bachelor's	HSK 4 (top universities often want HSK 5)
Chinese-taught master's / PhD	HSK 5 (humanities and Chinese literature may want HSK 6)
Chinese language scholarships	Depends on program length — check the call for applications
English-taught programs	No HSK for admission; IELTS or TOEFL instead

Universities also set minimum scores, not just levels, so read the admission guide carefully.

How long does it take?

Rough estimates for full-time study in a Chinese language program:

From → to	Approximate time
Zero → HSK 3	1 semester
Zero → HSK 4	1 – 1.5 years
HSK 4 → HSK 5	0.5 – 1 year
HSK 5 → HSK 6	1 year or more

That is why many students take one year of language study in China before starting a Chinese-taught degree. The language year also helps you adapt to life in China.

Taking the exam

Register at chinesetest.cn. Paper-based and internet-based versions are available in many countries.
Results are usually released about a month after the exam.
Book early if you need the score for a spring application deadline.

If you choose an English-taught program

International students take Chinese language and China overview as compulsory courses. Starting with HSK 1–2 before you arrive makes daily life much easier. You can begin with our free HSK 1 flashcards.