Chinese (Mandarin) Language Tests for Masters Study

The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) and the Test of Proficiency–Huayu (TOCFL) are the main Chinese proficiency tests for people who don’t speak Mandarin as their first language. If you're applying for a Masters in China or Taiwan, these tests are more important than ever. Many universities and scholarships now ask for proof of Mandarin — and the HSK test and TOCFL test help you show that.

Thinking about doing a Masters in China or Taiwan? If Mandarin isn’t your first language, you might need to take a Chinese proficiency test as part of your application. In this guide, I’ll explain what the HSK and TOCFL tests are, how they work, and why you might need one for postgraduate study. I’ll also share tips on how to prepare, what to expect on test day, and how to choose the right one for your plans.

The HSK is the most common Chinese test for international students heading to Mainland China. It’s accepted by most universities and even required for some courses taught in Mandarin.

How it's structured

As of 2021, the HSK follows the new HSK 3.0 format. It’s split into three bands:

• Beginner: Levels 1–3 (up to ~1200 words)

• Intermediate: Levels 4–6 (up to ~3245 words)

• Advanced: Levels 7–9 (up to ~11000 words — bring snacks)

Each level tests your listening, reading and writing skills. At the higher levels, you may also be asked to do translation or interpretation.

Here’s roughly what to expect:

How to prepare for it

• Start with a placement test: Don’t guess your level — that rarely ends well

• Use official study guides and past papers:  These match the exam format exactly

• Practice little and often: Even 20 minutes a day helps (your brain loves routines)

• Immerse yourself: Listen to Mandarin podcasts, read short articles, and yes — watching Chinese dramas counts

• Mock exams are your friend: Time yourself, make mistakes, repeat

Pro tip: HSK Level 4 is the minimum for many postgraduate programmes. Aim for this unless your course specifically says otherwise.

Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL)

The TOCFL (Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language) is the Mandarin test used in Taiwan. Formerly known as the TOP (Test Of Proficiency–Huayu) and sometimes referred to as the Hua-Yu Test, it’s a solid choice if you’re applying to a Taiwanese university or a government scholarship like the Taiwan Fellowship.

How it's structured

The TOCFL has four bands, with each band split into two levels:

• Band Novice: Levels 1–2

• Band A: Levels 1–2 (around 1000–2500 words)

• Band B: Levels 3–4 (up to 5000 words)

• Band C: Levels 5–6 (around 8000 words)

It tests listening and reading at all levels and speaking and writing at higher levels (because of course it does).

Unlike the HSK, the TOCFL vocabulary is based on traditional Chinese characters — good to know if you’ve been studying the simplified versions.

How to prepare for it

• Download the TOCFL word lists: They’re free and incredibly useful

• Use the official TOCFL site for practice materials

• Focus on listening and reading: These make up the majority of the exam

• Practice with traditional characters: Taiwan uses them, and so does the test

• Join a local study group or language exchange: Accountability helps — and you might make a friend or two

Heads up: The TOCFL isn’t as widely known as the HSK outside Taiwan, but it’s the gold standard inside Taiwan.

Planning to take the HSK or TOCFL for your Masters? Here are a few things to know before the panic sets in.

Register early — test centres fill up fast, especially if you're outside a big city. Check your course requirements too; not every Masters needs a language test, so don’t waste time prepping for something you won’t use.

If you’re unsure of your level, start lower. It’s better for your confidence (and your sanity). Don’t ignore listening practice either — understanding spoken Mandarin at speed is a skill of its own.

Finally, be patient. Mandarin takes time, and setbacks are part of the deal. Stick with it, even when your brain decides to forget everything between lessons.