Chinese (Mandarin) Language Tests for PhD Applications

China and Taiwan have some really exciting research opportunities, with PhD programmes in cutting-edge labs and interesting projects. Being able to speak and read Mandarin makes life and research much easier, and it helps you get the most out of your time there.

The HSK and TOCFL exams are the most recognised ways to prove your skills. This guide tells you which level you’ll probably need, what the tests include, and some tips to get ready.

There are two official tests of Chinese (Mandarin), one in mainland China and one in Taiwan:

• Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (汉语水平考试), translated as Chinese Proficiency Test
• Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL), formerly known as the Test Of Proficiency-Huayu or TOP

Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (汉语水平考试), translated as Chinese Proficiency Test is the ONLY official test of Mandarin in mainland China for non-native speakers. It is under the responsibility of Hanban, China National Office for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language ((中国国家对外汉语教学领导小组办公室). For more information, please consult http://www.china.org.cn/english/features/hsk/105146.htm.

Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL), formerly known as the Test Of Proficiency-Huayu or TOP is the test used in Taiwan for Mandarin as a foreign language. It is administered by the Steering Committee for the Test Of Proficiency-Huayu ( 國家華語測驗推動工作委員會), under the direction of the Ministry of Education.

For postgraduate admissions, you are most likely to be asked for TOCFL level 4 (out of 7) upwards and a HSK 6 (out of 11) upwards.

Tips from the author:

Here are some quick tips to help you before you take that language test:

• HSK Level 6 or TOCFL Level 4+ is often needed for doctoral study in Mandarin-speaking institutions.
• Practice all four skills to meet university expectations.
• Check whether your program requires HSK, TOCFL, or accepts either.