Do you need HSK to study in China?
It comes down to one thing: the language the programme is taught in. English-taught degrees normally require no HSK at entry; Chinese-taught degrees usually ask for HSK 4 or 5, and a one-year preparatory Chinese programme is the usual bridge if you do not have the certificate yet.
English-taught programmes
- HSK is normally not required at entry.
- Some universities ask for IELTS or TOEFL instead; others accept a certificate showing your previous education was in English.
- A few programmes still ask for HSK 3–4 even when teaching in English — it is on the programme page, not on the university homepage.
Chinese-taught programmes
- HSK 4 is the common requirement for bachelor's programmes.
- HSK 5 is common for master's, medicine, law and programmes with heavy reading and writing.
- Some programmes also ask for the speaking test (HSKK), particularly language and teaching degrees.
If you do not have HSK yet
- Most universities run a one-year preparatory Chinese programme; completing it can replace the HSK requirement.
- Some universities give conditional admission and let you sit an internal language test instead.
- Preparatory years usually start in September, with a smaller spring intake at some universities.
How to check for your programme
- Open the programme page (not the faculty page) and look for 'language requirements'.
- Requirements differ between programmes at the same university — engineering may be HSK 4 while medicine is HSK 5.
- If the page is unclear, write to the programme's admissions contact and keep the answer in writing.
Common questions
Is HSK 4 enough to study in China?
For many Chinese-taught bachelor's programmes, yes. Master's programmes and subjects with heavy reading often ask for HSK 5. Check the specific programme, because requirements vary inside the same university.
Do I need the speaking test (HSKK)?
Some programmes ask for it — language, teaching and medicine are the most common. It is listed with the other language requirements on the programme page.
Can I apply first and take HSK later?
Some universities issue conditional offers and let you submit the certificate before registration. Get the condition in writing, including the deadline and the minimum score.
Research first, then verify at the source
VisChat is an independent information and data site. Compare programmes here, then use current university and government pages to confirm the details that apply to you.