
[Photo via VCG]
The Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK) 3.0 will be trialed at selected test centers worldwide on January 31, 2026. The trial test will cover Asia, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania. Registration has just opened, and candidates can sign up online via the Chinese Tests Service Website (www.chinesetest.cn). Both paper-based and Internet-based formats will be available during this trial, with the specific format subject to the arrangement of each test center involved.
Registration Period
Paper-based Test: From 9:00, December 19, 2025 to 24:00, January 7, 2026
Internet-based Test: From 9:00, December 19, 2025 to 24:00, January 15, 2026
This trial exam covers levels 1 to 6. For levels 3 to 6, candidates will need to register for the speaking test at the same time. Scores will be released on March 14, 2026, and candidates can log into the Chinese Tests Service Website (www.chinesetest.cn) to check their results. Score reports are valid for two years. Please note that there will be no analysis report provided for the trial test result.
Test centers in 168 countries will pilot the new version of HSK, and the list of test centers will be updated continuously. Candidates should be careful to select the right test center and date when registering.
HSK is a standardized test for Chinese language proficiency for foreign learners worldwide. The latest version, HSK 3.0, released in November this year, expands the proficiency framework from the original six levels to nine levels. Levels 1 to 3 are classified as the Beginner Level and assess learners' basic communication skills in their daily life. Levels 4 to 6 are the Intermediate Level, focusing on learners' practical language skills for study, work, and everyday life. Levels 7 to 9 are the Advanced Level, testing learners' professional, occupational, and academic language competence, as well as their context-appropriate communication skills. The test results of HSK3.0 certify Chinese language proficiency for foreign learners, serving as proof of Chinese language proficiency for foreigners to apply to study or work in China, as well as to apply for internships and employment in relevant positions at overseas Chinese-invested enterprises or multinational corporations. For many academic programs in China, the HSK Level 4 is considered a basic language requirement for foreigners studying in China.
(Source: CCTV News App)