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For learners of Mandarin Chinese, achieving proficiency in both spoken and written skills is essential. The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) and the HSKK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǒuyǔ Kǎoshì) are two crucial exams designed to evaluate different aspects of the language. While they are closely related, each exam focuses on distinct skills: the HSK measures reading, listening, and writing proficiency, whereas the HSKK focuses solely on speaking ability.

In recent updates to the exam system, it has become mandatory for learners to take the HSKK Beginner after completing HSK 1 and HSK 2 in order to progress to HSK 3. This change highlights the importance of developing strong speaking skills at an early stage in your learning journey. In this blog, we will explore what each exam entails, their differences, and why the new requirement makes the HSKK an integral part of Mandarin proficiency testing.

What is the HSK?

The HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) is the standard written exam for non-native Mandarin speakers. It assesses proficiency in reading, listening, and writing Chinese, making it ideal for those looking to prove their ability to understand written Chinese and use it in practical, real-life situations.

The HSK exam is divided into six levels, ranging from beginner (HSK 1) to advanced (HSK 6):

  • HSK 1: Basic understanding of Mandarin; can use simple sentences and understand basic words.
  • HSK 2: Able to handle simple conversations and understand short texts.
  • HSK 3: Intermediate level; can read more complex sentences and express ideas in writing.
  • HSK 4: Upper-intermediate proficiency; capable of understanding and producing more detailed written and spoken Chinese.
  • HSK 5: Advanced; able to understand complex texts, including Chinese literature and professional content.
  • HSK 6: Mastery level; can easily understand and express abstract concepts, both in speaking and writing.

The HSK is often required for students planning to study in China or for those seeking careers that require Chinese reading and writing skills.

What is the HSKK?

The HSKK (Chinese Speaking Test) is the counterpart to the HSK, but it focuses exclusively on evaluating your spoken Mandarin skills. While the HSK tests your ability to read, write, and listen, the HSKK is designed to measure your fluency, pronunciation, and overall ability to communicate effectively in spoken Chinese. The exam consists of three levels:

  • Beginner: Tests basic pronunciation and simple sentence structures. Ideal for students just starting to speak Chinese.
  • Intermediate: Assesses your ability to hold conversations, understand spoken dialogues, and respond to questions.
  • Advanced: Evaluates fluency in speaking about abstract or complex topics with good pronunciation and appropriate grammar.

The HSKK is especially important for students who want to focus on improving their speaking skills or need to prove their oral proficiency for academic or professional purposes.

HSK exam

New Requirement: HSKK Beginner After HSK 1 and 2

In a recent update to the Chinese proficiency testing system, the HSKK Beginner level has become mandatory for learners who wish to take HSK 3. This new requirement means that after passing HSK 1 and HSK 2, you must take and pass the HSKK Beginner exam before you are eligible to move on to HSK 3. This change reflects the growing emphasis on oral proficiency in the language learning process.

The introduction of this rule underscores the importance of developing speaking skills early on in your language-learning journey. By requiring learners to demonstrate their speaking ability at an earlier stage, the system ensures that they are more well-rounded in their language skills by the time they reach intermediate and advanced levels.

For example, you cannot simply progress from HSK 2 directly to HSK 3 without proving your speaking ability through the HSKK Beginner. This helps maintain a balance between all aspects of the language (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), ensuring that learners are equipped to communicate effectively in real-world situations.

Key Differences Between the HSK and HSKK

While the HSK and HSKK exams are related, they assess very different aspects of your Mandarin skills. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Focus and Skills Tested

  • HSK: Measures reading, writing, and listening skills. It’s a comprehensive exam that tests your ability to understand written Chinese, write sentences, and listen to spoken Chinese in various contexts.
  • HSKK: Focuses solely on speaking skills. It evaluates your pronunciation, fluency, and your ability to carry on a conversation in Mandarin.

2. Structure and Format

  • HSK: Includes multiple-choice questions (for listening and reading) and short writing tasks. It is more formal and comprehensive, with longer sections for different language skills.
  • HSKK: An oral exam where you must respond to spoken questions, repeat sentences, and engage in dialogue. It is more conversational in nature and tests your ability to speak Mandarin naturally.

3. Levels

  • HSK: Six levels (HSK 1–6), with increasing complexity from basic vocabulary to advanced written and spoken materials.
  • HSKK: Three levels (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced), focusing purely on spoken ability.

4. Use Cases

  • HSK: Ideal for demonstrating proficiency in academic or professional settings that require strong written skills, like studying abroad in China or applying for jobs in Chinese-speaking environments.
  • HSKK: Perfect for those who need to demonstrate their spoken Chinese proficiency, whether for business, travel, or other situations where verbal communication is essential.

Which Exam Should You Take?

The decision between the HSK and the HSKK depends on your personal goals and language needs. Here’s a guide to help you decide which exam is right for you:

Take the HSK if:

  • You want to demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and listening.
  • You’re planning to study in China or pursuing a career that requires written Chinese.
  • You want to show your ability to understand complex texts, both written and spoken.
  • You’re preparing for academic exams, business, or other professional settings where reading and writing are essential.

Take the HSKK if:

  • You want to improve your speaking skills and demonstrate your ability to communicate verbally in Mandarin.
  • You’re looking for opportunities in business, travel, or casual settings where spoken communication is more important than reading or writing.
  • You need a more specialized exam for proving your oral proficiency in Mandarin.

How the HSK and HSKK Work Together

Given the new requirement for the HSKK Beginner after HSK 1 and HSK 2, it’s clear that these exams are designed to complement each other. By requiring learners to develop strong speaking skills alongside reading and writing, the system ensures that your Mandarin proficiency is well-rounded.

Many students find it beneficial to take both exams to measure their proficiency in all aspects of the language. The HSK provides a detailed assessment of your ability to understand written and spoken Mandarin, while the HSKK focuses on your ability to communicate orally. Together, they offer a comprehensive picture of your language abilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the HSK and HSKK exams serve distinct but complementary roles in measuring your Mandarin proficiency. The HSK tests reading, writing, and listening skills, while the HSKK focuses on oral communication. With the new HSKK Beginner requirement after HSK 1 and 2, it’s now necessary to demonstrate your speaking skills before advancing to higher levels of the HSK.

Ultimately, which exam you take depends on your language goals. If you want a comprehensive assessment of your Chinese language abilities, including reading and writing, the HSK is the way to go. If your focus is on improving your speaking skills, the HSKK is the right choice. Many students opt to take both exams to gain a full understanding of their language abilities, making it easier to achieve success in both academic and professional environments.

Ready to prepare for the HSK and HSKK exams? Start practicing today with HSKStar by Quippy, which offers personalized learning paths, AI-powered feedback, and comprehensive materials to help you succeed in both exams!