TOCFL Levels Explained – Which Level Should You Attempt?

Choosing the right TOCFL level is the first step to success. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.

At The Oriental Dialogue, we help students identify their levels accurately and prepare with tailored Mandarin lessons.

Band A (Levels 1–2)

  • Target learners: Beginners
  • Suggested Hours (Non-Chinese-speaking regions): 240–720 hours
  • Vocabulary: 500–1,000 words
  • CEFR Equivalent: A1–A2
  • Reading Score to Pass: 42–60 /80
  • Listening Score to Pass: 41 /80

Band B (Levels 3–4)

  • Target learners: Intermediate
  • Suggested Hours: 720–1920 hours
  • Vocabulary: 2,500–5,000 words
  • CEFR Equivalent: B1–B2
  • Reading Score to Pass: 48–64
  • Listening Score to Pass: 46–60

Band C (Levels 5–6)

  • Target learners: Advanced/professional
  • Suggested Hours: 1920+ hours
  • Vocabulary: 8,000+ words
  • CEFR Equivalent: C1–C2
  • Reading Score to Pass: 52–69
  • Listening Score to Pass: 61

Get expert guidance to choose your level at The Oriental Dialogue.