TOCFL vs. HSK: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Take?

If you’re learning Chinese, chances are you’ve heard of two major language exams: TOCFL (Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language) and HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi). Both are designed to assess Chinese language proficiency—but they are not the same, and choosing the right one can impact your academic or career path.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between TOCFL and HSK to help you decide which Chinese proficiency test is right for you.

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What Is TOCFL?

TOCFL is Taiwan’s official Chinese language proficiency test, administered by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan. It uses traditional Chinese characters and is based on usage common in Taiwan and overseas communities that favor traditional script.

The test is widely accepted by:

• Taiwanese universities for admissions
• Taiwan Scholarship programs
• Taiwan employment visa applications

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What Is HSK?

HSK is the mainland China equivalent, run by Hanban (now called CLEC). It uses simplified Chinese characters and is based on Mandarin as taught and spoken in mainland China.

It is recognized by:

• Chinese universities and scholarship programs
• Employers in China or Chinese companies overseas
• Immigration and work-related programs in mainland China

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Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	TOCFL (Taiwan)	HSK (Mainland China)
Characters Used	Traditional	Simplified
Vocabulary System	CEFR-aligned (6 levels)	HSK 2.0 (6 levels), HSK 3.0 (9 levels)
Geographic Focus	Taiwan, overseas Chinese communities	Mainland China and affiliates
Exam Purpose	Study/work in Taiwan	Study/work in China
Speaking Test	Optional (TOCFL Speaking)	Separate (HSKK)

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Which One Should You Take?

Take TOCFL if:

• You plan to study, work, or live in Taiwan
• You’re learning traditional Chinese
• You’re applying for the Huayu Enrichment Scholarship or a Taiwan Ministry of Education program

Take HSK if:

• You’re preparing to study in mainland China
• You’re learning simplified Chinese
• Your work involves Chinese companies or Chinese-speaking markets

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✅ Final Thoughts

Both TOCFL and HSK are valuable tools for Chinese learners—but they serve different language standards. Choose the one that aligns with your goals, and you’ll be one step closer to making your Chinese skills officially recognized.