The second row indicates the percentage occupied by those whose scores are lower than the corresponding scores in the standard HSK Basic reference group. Table 1.2 explains the type and grade of the certificate. Able to handle simple, elementary needs in very familiar situations. Able to satisfy partially the requirements of basic communicative exchanges. Level 3 is the minimum level in Chinese proficiency for a candidate to be admitted to a college or university in China as an undergraduate student in the fie ld of science, engineering, agriculture and Western medicine as well as the standard for obtaining the certificate of HSK Basic Grade A, which is equivalent to Grade C of HSK Elementary.
All items are multiple-choice.
During the time allowed for each section, examinees must work on that section onl y and are not permitted to work beyond the time limit for the section. Examinees are also not permitted to turn to a section that has not been announced or go back to an earlier section.