Navigating the HSK Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide for Applicants in India

Are you looking to showcase your proficiency in the Chinese language?

The Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì (HSK) is an excellent way to demonstrate your skills. Here, Hànyǔ is the Chinese word for the Chinese language, while Shuǐpíng means Level, and Kǎoshì means examination. So it is the Chinese Language Level Examination.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for the HSK exams in India:

Kindly note that anyone from western India needs to give their exam at the Mumbai center i.e. India China Academy.

Step 1: Check the Exam Schedule

Before you begin, visit https://chinesetest.cn to check the nearest exam centres and exam test dates. The website takes a while to download. Even if the exam is conducted 11 times a year, exam centres opt for their convenient dates.

Some institutes who conduct HSK exams across India are:

  • India China Academy, Mumbai
  • School of World Languages, Kolkatta
  • Langma School of Languages, New Delhi
  • VIT Chinese Language Centre, Vellore

We recommend you to call them to ask about the upcoming tests.

Other tests such as HSKK (spoken Chinese), YCT (for children), or BCT (for Business Chinese) are also available. The exact test dates are announced in advance, usually before the previous month’s test.

Step 2: Create an AccountNavigating the HSK Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide for Applicants in India

On the official HSK website, https://chinesetest.cn create an account using your email address and set a password. This account will be used for registration and accessing your results later on.

Step 3: Register for the Exam

Once logged in, fill out the online registration form with your personal details and mailing information. Upload a passport-sized photo as part of your registration. Choose the desired test (HSK level), exam center, and the test date according to the schedule.

Step 4: Payment of Fees

After completing the registration, you must pay the exam fees. Take a screenshot of your registration details and share it with the exam center. Follow their instructions to make the payment. Your seat will only be confirmed upon receipt of payment by the test center. For HSK levels 3 and above, you must also register for the HSKK (speaking test) and pay the applicable fees for both exams.

Step 5: Prepare for the Exam

Preparation is key, so familiarize yourself with the exam format and practice sample questions. You can also enroll for The Oriental Dialogue’s HSK practice sessions.

Step 6: Receive Admission Ticket

Approximately 7 days before the test date, your admission ticket will be issued.

Step 7: Check Your Results and Collect Your CertificateNavigating the HSK Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide for Applicants in India

Results are typically announced around one month after the test date. You can check your results on https://www.chinesetest.cn/query-score. Certificates are usually available for collection at the exam center approximately two months after the test date. If you prefer, you can opt to have your certificate couriered to you for an additional fee.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure you have valid identification and adhere to all registration deadlines.
  • Practice sample exam questions to familiarize yourself with the test format.
  • Contact the institutes directly for any specific queries regarding registration or test administration.

Conclusion

Preparing for and taking the HSK exam in India involves careful planning and adherence to deadlines. By following these steps, you can successfully register and demonstrate your Chinese language proficiency through the HSK examination. Good luck!