HSK test centers and exam dates by country
Last reviewed 21 October 2026 · Check the official site before booking
How HSK dates actually work
There is no single worldwide exam day. The organizers publish a global calendar of test dates each year, and individual test centers choose which of those dates they offer — so the dates available in your city are a subset of the official calendar. Two centers in the same country can have different schedules.
That is why the reliable method is always the same: find your center first, then look at that center's dates, then register.
Find a center and its dates
- Open the official Chinese test portal, chinesetest.cn, and use the test-center search.
- Filter by country and city, then open the center page.
- Check which dates that center offers and whether it runs the paper test (PBT) or the internet-based test (iBT) — many offer both, some only one.
- Register before that center's deadline. Centers often close earlier than the global cut-off when seats fill.
Paper test or internet-based test?
- Paper (PBT) — fixed dates, answer sheet, results tend to take longer. Registration deadlines are earlier.
- Internet-based (iBT) — taken on a computer at a center, more date options at many centers, often faster results. Listening is delivered through headphones.
The content and scoring are the same; choose based on the dates your center offers and how quickly you need the certificate.
The 2026 transition
HSK 3.0 launches worldwide on 13 December 2026. Sittings before that date use the current format; from the launch date, levels 1–6 use the new syllabus. Registration for the launch sitting closes on 16 November (paper) and 3 December (iBT), both at 24:00 Beijing time. See HSK 3.0 exam dates and registration.
Registration checklist
- Passport or ID that matches the name you register with.
- A digital photo in the format the portal requires.
- Payment method accepted in your country — fees are set locally and vary widely.
- Your admission ticket, printed or saved, for test day. Arrive early: late arrivals are usually not admitted.
Choosing a date
Work backwards from your deadline. Universities and visa applications usually need the certificate, not just the score, so allow time for results and certificate issuance. As a rule of thumb, book 4–6 weeks before the sitting you want, and 8–10 weeks before any hard deadline that depends on the certificate.
Working out what score you need? See HSK pass marks and results.
Frequently asked questions
Are HSK exam dates the same in every country?
No. The organizers publish a global calendar, but each test center chooses which dates it offers, so availability differs by country and even by city.
How do I find the HSK test center closest to me?
Use the test-center search on chinesetest.cn, filter by country and city, and open the center page to see its dates, format (paper or iBT) and registration deadline.
Can I take the HSK online from home?
The standard internet-based test (iBT) is taken at a test center, not at home. Home testing is not part of the regular HSK format — check with your local center for any pilot arrangements.
How early should I register for HSK?
Aim for 4–6 weeks before your preferred date. Centers close registration before the exam and can fill up, and you need time for results if a deadline depends on the certificate.