HSKK (Hanyu Shuiping Kouyu Kaoshi, the oral proficiency test) complements HSK, with elementary, intermediate and advanced levels, taken on a computer with recorded answers.
Levels and length: elementary ~17 minutes (repeat after listening, picture description, Q&A); intermediate ~21 minutes (answer after listening, reading aloud, picture description); advanced ~24 minutes (retell after listening, reading aloud, argumentation).
How to prepare: (1) shadow-read news or podcasts 15 minutes daily for intonation; (2) build topic vocabulary (study, work, travel, environment); (3) practise the "general-first, then details" argument structure; (4) do 2-3 timed mock tests before the exam.
Scoring tips: speak clearly at a steady pace (not too fast); echo keywords from the question to buy thinking time; prefer simple and correct over complex and wrong; support arguments with examples.
HSKK can be taken on the same day and centre as HSK (e.g., HSK3 plus HSKK intermediate); scores are independent. An oral certificate boosts scholarship and job applications.
