The registration deadline to take standardized Chinese language speaking tests at MTSU is near.

The Confucius Institute at MTSU will conduct the testing Saturday, Oct. 17, at the institute, Room 106 of Peck Hall on the MTSU campus.

The registration deadline for written and oral adult tests is 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20.

Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi, or HSK, is a written international standardized Chinese language test to measure the ability of non-native Chinese speakers to communicate in Chinese in daily life, academic and working settings.

HSK has six levels of proficiency, and fees for the written test range from $10 to $70, depending on the level.

The oral HSK test assesses the student’s ability to speak Chinese and is divided into basic, intermediate and advanced levels. Fees range from $20 to $40, depending on the level.

HSK tests are one of the most important criteria for students who want full scholarships to study in China.

A certificate of completion can serve as the basis for employment in some institutions or as proof of proficiency to enter a Chinese college or university as an undergraduate or graduate student.

The Youth Chinese Test for levels one through four will be administered Saturday, Nov. 21, at the institute.

Fees range from $10 to $25, depending on the level. The Youth Chinese Test registration deadline is 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 26.

Checks should be made payable to CIMTSU and submitted at the institute or mailed to 1301 E. Main St., P.O. Box 114, Peck Hall 106, Confucius Institute at Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN 37132.

The Confucius Institute at MTSU is dedicated to promoting understanding of Chinese language and culture and to creating opportunities for exchange and collaboration among communities in Tennessee and China.

To learn about practice tests and other information, contact Qiang Zhang, Chinese language teacher, at 615-494-8696 or qiang.zhang@mtsu.edu.

— Gina K. Logue (gina.logue@mtsu.edu)