HSK vs HSKK: Key Differences and Preparation Tips
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Time to read 3 min
If you’re learning Chinese, you’ve probably heard of the HSK exam. It’s widely known as the official test of Chinese proficiency. But fewer learners know about the HSKK, the speaking test that often accompanies the HSK. This leads to confusion: what’s the difference, and which one should you take?
This guide breaks down HSK vs HSKK, explains the structure of both exams, and gives you clear preparation strategies to help you succeed.
What Is the HSK?
The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is the most recognized Chinese proficiency exam worldwide. It measures your ability to read, listen, and write in Mandarin.
Structure: Six levels (HSK 1–6). HSK 1 and 2 are beginner-friendly, while HSK 5–6 are advanced.
Skills tested: Listening, reading, and writing (writing begins at HSK 3).
Purpose: Required for admission to Chinese universities, used in job applications, and often considered for visa applications.
The Chinese Test International site provides official information, exam dates, and practice materials.
What Is the HSKK?
HSKK stands for Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǒuyǔ Kǎoshì, or the Chinese Speaking Test. Unlike the HSK, which measures comprehension, the HSKK focuses entirely on speaking.
Structure: Three levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Skills tested: Pronunciation, tones, fluency, and ability to respond to prompts.
Format: Candidates listen to questions or see prompts, then record their spoken answers.
According to DigiMandarin, the HSKK is essential if you want to prove oral fluency for work or university programs that require spoken interaction.
HSK vs HSKK – Key Differences
Although both are official proficiency exams, they test different aspects of Mandarin.
1. Skills Tested
HSK: listening, reading, and writing.
HSKK: speaking only.
Levels
HSK: six levels (HSK 1–6).
HSKK: three levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced).
Format
HSK: multiple-choice, reading comprehension, short essays (at higher levels).
HSKK: spoken responses recorded and evaluated.
Purpose
HSK: general language proficiency, required for study and work.
HSKK: oral proficiency, often supplementary for academic or professional purposes.
Certificates
- Both issue certificates valid for two years. Some universities require both.
For a learner-friendly comparison, check Improve Mandarin's exam breakdown.
Which Exam Should You Take?
This depends on your personal goals.
Students: Many Chinese universities require both HSK and HSKK for admission. For example, an HSK 4 score may be required for coursework, while an HSKK Intermediate certificate proves speaking ability.
Professionals: If you need Chinese for work, the HSK is usually enough. However, jobs requiring communication (teaching, customer service, international business) may ask for HSKK as proof of oral fluency.
Long-term learners: Taking both ensures a well-rounded profile. HSK proves comprehension, while HSKK proves communication.
If you’re unsure, look at your target institution or company’s requirements. Some specify HSK only, while others require both.
If you want ready-made study tools to speed up your review, check out our VerbaCard Flashcards on Amazon. They’re designed to make vocabulary easier to remember with clear layouts and durable cards.
How to Prepare for the HSK
The HSK is vocabulary-heavy, and preparation should be systematic.
1. Build Vocabulary
Use official HSK word lists for your level.
Study with flashcards or spaced repetition apps.
Write characters by hand to improve retention.
2. Practice Listening
Listen to past exam recordings.
Watch Chinese shows with subtitles to match sound and text.
3. Improve Reading Skills
Read graded readers designed for HSK levels.
Practice with news apps like The Chairman’s Bao, which offers articles graded to HSK vocabulary lists.
4. Writing Practice
Begin short sentences at HSK 3.
Write diary entries, emails, or exam-style essays.
Mock tests from the HSK Mock are also excellent preparation.
How to Prepare for the HSKK
Unlike the HSK, the HSKK tests your ability to respond in real time with correct tones and natural flow. Preparation needs to focus on speaking practice.
1. Practice Daily Speaking
Read sentences aloud from textbooks.
Describe your daily activities in Chinese.
Practice answering sample exam prompts out loud.
2. Work with Native Speakers
3. Record Yourself
Use your phone to record practice answers.
Compare your pronunciation to native speakers.
4. Focus on Tones and Pronunciation
Tones are critical for clarity.
Use apps like Glossika for tone drills and sentence shadowing.
As GoEast Mandarin suggests, simulating exam conditions—recording your answers within the time limit—is the best way to prepare for the HSKK.
HSKK prep involves listening and responding effectively. This beginner-level training video simulates the "Listen and Reply" part of HSKK, helping you train your speaking under test-like conditions.
Choosing the Right Path in Chinese Proficiency
Understanding HSK vs HSKK is crucial for charting your Chinese learning journey. The HSK measures comprehension across reading, listening, and writing, while the HSKK focuses on speaking ability. For students and professionals, both exams can complement each other, providing a full picture of your skills.
Whichever path you take, preparation is the same in spirit: build vocabulary, practice consistently, and immerse yourself in real language use.
So ask yourself—do you want to prove reading and listening comprehension, oral fluency, or both? Once you decide, you’ll know exactly how to prepare and what exam to aim for.
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