Chinese proficiency    tests

CISU is an official test centre for internationally recognised Chinese proficiency tests HSK, HSKK and YCT.

 What are these tests?

  • The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is a globally recognised Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers. It assesses listening, reading and writing skills in Chinese.
  • The HSKK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǒuyǔ Kǎoshì) is a seperate test that evaluates your spoken Chinese.
  • he YCT (Youth Chinese Test) is an international standardised Chinese proficiency test for primary- and secondary-school learners.

 

Test timelines

  • Test dates: Chinese Testing International (CTI) schedules tests monthly. CISU offers selected test sessions based on demand and does not necessarily offer every scheduled test date.
  • Registration opens: Approximately two months before each test.
  • Payment deadline: Participants must pay the test fee to Stellenbosch University by electronic funds transfer (EFT) through their banking app and submit proof of payment at least 35 days before the test. This allows CISU time to verify payments, confirm registrations on the CTI system and arrange the transfer of test fees to CTI in China before the deadline.
  • Venue: Stellenbosch University main campus; the exact venue will be confirmed closer to the test date.
  • Score reports: Normally ready for collection approximately 40 days after the test.

 

CTI test regulations

For more information about navigating the CTI website, test procedures, and withdrawing from or rescheduling a test, please read the CTI test regulations.

 

Apply now

Register on the Chinese Tests Service Website

Register here

  • Complete your official test registration online.
  • Do not make a payment through the website.
  • Enter your full name exactly as it appears on your identity document or passport.
  • Upload a passport-style photograph showing your head and shoulders against a clear background.
  • Registration normally opens about two months before the test.

    Notify CISU of your registration

    • Join the HSK/HSKK WhatsApp group
    • Provide your full name, contact details and test level.
    • Notify CISU immediately after completing your online registration.
    • CISU will confirm the venue, payment process and other test arrangements.

      Make payment to Stellenbosch University

       

      • Pay the test fee to Stellenbosch University at least 35 days before the test.
      • There is no online payment link. Do not pay through the Chinese Tests Service Website.
      • Use beneficiary reference R5533-5597-HSK-[Your Surname] for this payment.
      • If your full surname does not fit, enter as much of it as the payment system allows.
      Payment details

      Account Holder: University of Stellenbosch
      Bank: Standard Bank
      Account Number: 073006955
      Branch Code: 050610
      Swift Code: SBZAZAJJ
      Payment Reference: 5533-COUR-5597 + YOUR SURNAME

      (If your surname is too long, use the first few letters.)

      • Upload your proof of payment here and notify the administrator of Whatsapp group.​
        Please note that without completing these steps
        • We cannot finalise your CTI registration
        • CTI will cancel your test registration

        Write your test

        • Download your test admission ticket from the Chinese Tests Service Website.
        • Bring a 2B pencil, an eraser and the identity document or passport used for registration.
        • Arrive at least 30 minutes before the test begins to complete the required administrative procedures
        • Late arrivals may not be admitted to the test venue.

        Wait for your results

        • Online results may be available before the printed score reports arrive.
        • Official score reports are couriered from Beijing approximately 40 days after the test.
        • CISU will notify you through the WhatsApp group when they are ready for collection.
        • Keep your website login details so that you can access your results online.