HSK Paper-based vs Internet-based Test: A Comprehensive Comparison

HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi – 汉语水平考试) is the standardized test for measuring Chinese language proficiency. It is available in two formats: paper-based and Internet-based. This article compares these two formats to help you choose the most suitable option for your needs.

Key Differences

While the paper-based and Internet-based HSK tests are identical in cost, difficulty level, test content, and scoring criteria, they differ in several important aspects:

1. Test Environment

• Paper-based: Conducted in an official HSK test center using 2B pencils and answer sheets.
• Internet-based: Taken on a computer using a keyboard and mouse.

2. Registration Deadline

• Paper-based: At least 4 weeks before the test date.
• Internet-based: 10 days before the test date.

Example (June 2022 test):

3) Score Announcement Time

Take June 2022 for example   Test date: June 12 (Sunday)

4) Handwriting Chinese Characters VS Typing Chinese Characters

let’s have a look HSK 1-6 writing Chinese section.

HSK 1-2
You don’t have to know Chinese character on HSK 1 and HSK 2.
All questions and choices are presented along with Pinyin.

HSK 3-6,  you have to recognize and write or type Chinese characters.
Take HSK 3 writing section for example
Section 1
You are required to  form sentences with the given words.
Example :  小 船 上 一 河 条 有
Answer:    小河上有一条船

Section 2  
Write Chinese characters with the Pinyin
                          guān
Example:  没 (         ）系，别难过，高兴点儿。
guān
Answer：  没 (  关 ）系，别难过，高兴点儿。

Take HSK 4 writing section for example
Section 1
You are required to  form sentences with the given words.
Example :  那座桥 800年的  历史  有  了
Answer:     那座桥有800年的历史了

Section 2 
Write one sentence according to the picture and keyword.

                       乒乓球

Answer:  她很喜欢打乒乓球

Take HSK 5 writing section for example
Section 1
You are required to form sentences with the given words.
Example :  发表 这篇论文 什么时候 是 的
Answer:     这篇论文是什么时候发表的？

Section 2
You are required to write two essays, each over 80 characters in 40 minutes.
Exercise 1
元旦、放松、礼物、表演、善良

Exercise 2

Take HSK 6 writing section for example
1) You will have 10 minutes to read an article of about 1,000 words.

2) You will then have 35 minutes to summarise the article in about 400 characters.You cannot use the text anymore.

3) You will have to find a title and summarise the article without giving your opinion.

Most of learners learned to recognize, read and type Chinese characters, few of learners take time practicing handwriting. If you are one of them, maybe internet-based test is a good choice.

5. Answer Correction and Rewriting

• Paper-based: Corrections may make the paper messy, potentially affecting scoring.
• Internet-based: Easy editing similar to word processing software, maintaining neatness.

Choosing the Right Format

Consider these factors when deciding between paper-based and Internet-based HSK:

1. Your comfort level with computers and typing in Chinese
2. Your handwriting quality (which may influence scoring in paper-based tests)
3. Your schedule and preferred test date (considering registration deadlines)
4. How quickly you need your results

Conclusion

Both HSK formats have their advantages. The Internet-based test offers more flexibility in registration and faster results, while the paper-based test might be preferable for those more comfortable with handwriting Chinese characters. Consider your skills, preferences, and circumstances when making your choice.

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