Is there a difference between taking the HSK exam on a computer versus on paper?

Differences between taking the HSK exam on a computer versus on paper

The Chinese Language Proficiency Test (HSK), the only standardized test to assess Chinese language proficiency for foreigners not using Chinese as their native language or for overseas Chinese.

Currently, there are two ways to take the HSK exam: on a computer and on paper, offered at places like the Confucius Institute, University of Languages and International Studies - Vietnam National University, Hanoi. However, regardless of the format, the difficulty, content, and structure of the HSK exam are the same. The only difference lies in the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

Advantages and disadvantages of taking the HSK exam on a computer

Advantages of taking the exam on a computer

- No need to memorize how to write kanji characters, just remember the phonetic alphabet. This is because when taking the exam on a computer, you only need to use the phonetic alphabet to type and input kanji characters. Therefore, you don't need to remember all the ways to write characters, just recognize Chinese characters to complete the exam well.

- During the listening exam, each candidate uses their own headphones, so you can always focus and not be affected by external factors. 

Drawbacks of taking the HSK exam on a computer

- Confusion, anxiety, and being influenced by various external factors (malfunctioning devices, headphones; loss of connection; noisy environment; ...)

- Inability to preview the Listening and Reading sections beforehand due to the limited computer screen display. You have to go back to the page multiple times to read and choose answers, which consumes a considerable amount of test time.

- Unable to review completed sections because the system automatically locks them after each section is finished.

- Typing errors: Candidates need to remember phonetic alphabets and characters well. However, during the exam, due to stress and time-saving concerns, many candidates type hastily without thorough checking, leading to inaccurate typing. Moreover, some candidates are unsure how to type 'ü' and end up typing 'v', causing confusion and anxiety during the exam. Furthermore, candidates need to pay attention when typing punctuation marks in Chinese. Chinese punctuation marks differ from Vietnamese, so many candidates lose points for incorrect usage of punctuation marks.

Advantages and disadvantages of taking the HSK exam on paper

Advantages of paper-based exams

• Đọc trước các câu hỏi và lựa chọn trả lời của phần Nghe.

• Dễ dàng xem lại nội dung của Phần Đọc.

• Có thể kiểm tra công việc đã hoàn thành.

Disadvantages of paper-based exams

• Phải nhớ rõ cách viết chữ Hán, viết sạch, đẹp, ngay ngắn để người chấm thi đọc được.

• Bị ảnh hưởng bởi các yếu tố bên ngoài khi làm bài thi nghe, không thể nghe rõ những nội dung quan trọng.

*Note: 

+ Candidates who are not confident in writing skills or cannot remember how to write Chinese characters may have an advantage when taking the HSK exam on a computer. However, candidates need to actively overcome objective factors such as equipment problems, environment, etc., to ensure a smooth test experience. 

+ Conversely, candidates who are confident in Chinese characters and want more time for reflection and reviewing their answers should choose the written exam format.

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