Overview
HSKK is the HSK Speaking Test, offered through the Chinese Tests Service website. It checks spoken Chinese at three levels: elementary, intermediate and advanced. The test is delivered as an audio recording of your answers. It is separate from the HSK written tests.
Levels or stages
HSKK Elementary
For learners who have studied Chinese at 2 to 3 lessons a week for one to two semesters and know about 200 common words. It has three sections and 27 questions, and the exam lasts 20 minutes including 7 minutes of preparation.
HSKK Intermediate
For learners with one to two academic years of study at the same pace, and about 900 common words. It has three sections and 14 questions, and lasts 23 minutes including 10 minutes of preparation.
HSKK Advanced
For learners with more than two academic years of study at that pace, and about 3,000 common words. It has three sections and 6 questions, and lasts 25 minutes including 10 minutes of preparation.
Exam pattern
| Level | Section 1 | Section 2 | Section 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary | Listen and repeat, 15 questions, 6 minutes | Listen and answer, 10 questions, 4 minutes | Answer questions, 2 questions, 3 minutes |
| Intermediate | Listen and repeat, 10 questions, 5 minutes | Describe pictures, 2 questions, 4 minutes | Answer questions, 2 questions, 4 minutes |
| Advanced | Listen and retell, 3 questions, 8 minutes | Read aloud, 1 question, 2 minutes | Answer questions, 2 questions, 5 minutes |
Marking and results
Each level is scored out of 100, and 60 or above is a pass. Answers are rated high, medium or low per question type, based on how accurate, complete and fluent they are, and a non-answer scores zero. HSK Speaking scores are valid for two years from the test date.
Important dates
Test dates depend on the test centre. The official site has a 2026 test calendar, a test-centre finder and a mode choice of paper-based, internet-based at a centre, or internet-based at home, and shows the dates for each. Start times are set per test centre and level, and the level pages list them.
How to apply
Book a test through the Chinese Tests Service website, choosing a level, a test centre and a date. You can try a mock test on the same site before booking.
Preparation tips
Practise speaking aloud within the time limits, using the sample papers on the official site.
Study the scoring notes, which describe what earns a high rating for repeating, retelling, reading aloud, picture description and answering.
Is HSKK taken with the HSK?
It is a separate speaking test. HSK covers listening, reading and writing, and HSKK covers speaking only. In some places they are scheduled on the same day.
How long are the scores valid?
Two years from the test date.