Chinese Language Proficiency Tests

The Confucius Institute at Maryland is now offering the two standardized tests that certify Chinese language proficiency, the HSK and the TCFL.

Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK)

HSK is the abbreviation of the Chinese Pinyin, or romanization, of the test name Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi. The Chinese Proficiency Test is a series of tests to assess the Chinese language proficiency of non-native Chinese speakers. The HSK assesses the examine ability to communicate in Chinese, and to use it in the context of studying in educational institutions, business enterprises and other organizations.

Next HSK Test Dates:

  • May and October 2009
  • 9 a.m. to 12 Noon each test date. Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels.
  • Registration fee for each test: $10.
  • Test administration fees: Beg: $30; Intermediate: $40; Advanced: $50.
  • Register by May 1 for Spring test.
  • Register by October 1 for Fall test.
  • register by mail or in person at CIM. 0134 Holzapfel Hall, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
    Test Site: Confucius Institute at the University of Maryland: 0134 Holzapfel Hall
    Test Registration: Please download the HSK registration form and send it to us via email or via our mailing address.
  • Needed for registration: fees and form; 2 recent, identical 1x 2 photos; copy of photo ID.


Preparation Classes for the HSK:
In advance of a test date, we offer optional preparation classes. If you are interested in the HSK, please email Rebecca McGinnis for test and preparation class dates.
Practice site: 0134 Holzapfel Hall, University of Maryland

Fees for the practice sessions are $25 per session. There is no need to attend each practice session, but the content will be varied for each one. You may attend one or more, or all six practice sessions. Please complete the registration form and forward it to us via email.

Test for Certifying Teachers to Teach Chinese as a Foreign Language (TCFL)

This test assesses the qualifications of Chinese and foreign educators interested in teaching Chinese as a foreign language (TCFL). The TCFL test assists the Chinese Ministry of Education in selecting teachers to be sent abroad by the Chinese government, and for recommending Chinese candidates to foreign institutions and organizations to teach Chinese language. Three test levels have been established: preliminary, mid-level, and advanced.

In order to raise the quality of teaching Chinese as a foreign language and produce more and better teachers of Chinese as a foreign language, Chinas Ministry of Education has outlined the Measures for Certifying Teachers Ability to Teach Chinese as a Foreign Language. You can visit the Hanban website for more information.