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HSK and YCT Tests (Chinese Proficiency Tests)

Find out when you can take the HSK or YCT test at Newcastle University and how to apply.

Chinese proficiency examinations

The HSK and YCT tests are Chinese proficiency examinations. They are the only Chinese language certificates accepted in mainland China. They consist of a writing test and a speaking test.

The tests are used by educational institutions and potential employers.

The Confucius Institute at Newcastle University is a registered HSK test centre. You can take your test here.

HSK test

The HSK certifies that the holder has the required Chinese proficiency to enter Chinese educational institutions as an undergraduate or postgraduate student. They are also exempt from studying Chinese courses at certain levels.

The HSK provides a reference point for employers recruiting non-native Chinese staff.

YCT test

The YCT is The Youth Chinese Test. It examines non-native primary and secondary school students' ability in Chinese.

Test levels

Find out more about the various levels of the tests to see which one you should take.

 

2023/2024 test dates - Newcastle University

Test date

Test

 Registration Open        

Registration deadline           

Date of results     

16th March 2024            

HSK1-6

HSKK Primary-Advanced

18th January 2024

 18th February 2024       

16th April 2024

12th May 2024

 

YCT1-4

YCT Speaking Primary & Intermediate

 

15th March 2024

15th April 2024

12th June 2024

19th May 2024

HSK1-6

HSKK Primary-Advanced

22nd March 2024 22nd April 2024   19th June 2024

 

22nd June 2024

 

 

HSK1-6

HSKK Primary-Advanced

26th April 2024

26th May 2024

22nd July 2024

21st July 2024

HSK1-6

HSKK Primary-Advanced

24th May 2024

24th June 2024

21st August 2024

8th December 2024               

HSK1-6

HSKK Primary-Advanced

11th October 2024

11th November 2024

8th January 2025

 

On the day of your test, you will need to bring:

  • your HSK permit (this can be provided by the test centre on the day)
  • your personal ID or passport
  • 2B pencils
  • an eraser

No dictionaries or other written materials are allowed in the room where the test takes place.

The test paper will be in Simplified Character format unless otherwise requested upon application.

Registration

1. Register for the appropriate test on chinesetest.cn

Note: if you have problems uploading the photographs, please send two named passport-sized photos to:

The Confucius Institute at Newcastle University
Level 4, Old Library Building
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 7RU
UK

2. Pay the test fee

Pay your test fee online

The fees are outlined below:

Level

Fee

 

HSK Level 1

£10

HSK Level 2

£20

HSK Level 3

£30

HSK Level 4

£40

HSK Level 5

£50

HSK Level 6

£60

HSKK Beginner Level

£15

HSKK Intermediate Level

£25

HSKK Advanced Level

£35

YCT Level 1

£5

YCT Level 2

£10

YCT Level 3

£20

YCT Level 4

£25

YCT Speaking (Basic)

£10

YCT Speaking (Intermediate)

£10

 

3. Collect your HSK permit

Once we have processed your completed application form, photographs and fees we will issue you with an HSK permit and directions to the test centre.

The permit will be issued to you on the day of the test or you can collect your permit from the Confucius Institute Office:

The Confucius Institute at Newcastle University
Room 4.14,Level 4, Old Library Building
Newcastle University
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 7RU
UK