The HSK Level 2 exam is scored based on two main sections: Listening and Reading, with a total score of 200 points (100 points for each section). Here’s a detailed breakdown of the scoring:
1. Listening Section (100 points)
- Total Questions: 35
- Scoring:
- Each correct answer earns 2.86 points (since 100 points ÷ 35 questions ≈ 2.86 points per question).
- Incorrect or unanswered questions receive 0 points.
- Key Points:
- The listening section tests the ability to understand short conversations, statements, and questions related to daily life.
- Scores are calculated by multiplying the number of correct answers by 2.86.
2. Reading Section (100 points)
- Total Questions: 25
- Scoring:
- Each correct answer earns 4 points (since 100 points ÷ 25 questions = 4 points per question).
- Incorrect or unanswered questions receive 0 points.
- Key Points:
- The reading section assesses the ability to read and understand basic Chinese characters, words, and short sentences.
- Scores are calculated by multiplying the number of correct answers by 4.
3. Passing Score
- Total Score Required to Pass: 120 points or higher (out of 200).
- Breakdown:
- A candidate can pass by scoring a combined total of 120 points or more across both sections.
- There is no requirement to pass each section individually; the total score determines the outcome.
4. Additional Notes
- No Negative Marking: There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it is advisable to answer all questions.
- Score Validity: HSK Level 2 scores are valid for two years from the exam date.
- Certificate: Candidates who achieve a passing score receive an official HSK Level 2 certificate.
Example Calculation
- If a candidate answers 20 questions correctly in the Listening section (20 × 2.86 = 57.2 points) and 15 questions correctly in the Reading section (15 × 4 = 60 points), their total score would be 117.2 points, which is below the passing score of 120.
- If the candidate answers 21 questions correctly in the Listening section (21 × 2.86 = 60.06 points) and 15 questions correctly in the Reading section (15 × 4 = 60 points), their total score would be 120.06 points, which is above the passing score.