Purpose: 

The Chinese Proficiency Exam is administered to students seeking to have their foreign language requirement waived. It is not a placement test. Please review L&S Language Requirement to decide if you can use other ways to satisfy the language requirement. 

Administration: 

  • The exam is offered once every semester with no make-up tests available.
  • Only admitted UC Berkeley students are eligible to take the test. It is not available to UCB applicants or non-UCB students. 

Fall 2026 Exam Details: 

Exam Day Instructions: 

Before the Test

  • Device & Browser: Use a laptop or desktop computer. Tablets or phones are not recommended.
  • Zoom Setup: Install the latest version of Zoom and test your camera and microphone.
  • Environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit room. Ensure no one else is present.
  • Materials:  Notes and electronic devices should be away.
  • Login: Join the Zoom meeting 10 minutes before the test start time and show your student ID. Late arrivals will not be accommodated.
example for camera position

During the Test

  • Keep your camera on and your face clearly visible at all times. You may use a second device to show your hands and screen if needed.

  • Keep your microphone unmuted.
  • Your entire workspace must be visible.
  • Do not use any unauthorized materials or devices.
  • Follow all instructions given by the proctor immediately.

After the Test

  • Submit your answers as instructed.
  • Remain on Zoom until the proctor confirms that all submissions are complete.

Important: Failure to follow these instructions may result in your test being invalidated. 

Contact Information: 

Exam Format: 

  • The exam includes two forms: one using traditional characters and one using simplified characters. Select your preferred form at the start.
  • It consists of four sections: vocabulary, grammar, reading, and writing.
  • The vocabulary, grammar, and reading sections contain multiple-choice questions.
  • The writing section requires you to type characters in either simplified or traditional form. 

Evaluation and Results: 

  • Results indicate the number of semesters of university-level study, ranging from zero to more than ten semesters.
  • Test results are available approximately one month after the exam date and are sent to your college/major advisor. Contact your advisor for the results. 

Additional Notes: 

  • The test can only be taken once.
  • If the test result does not meet the foreign language requirement and you have not had formal education in a Chinese-speaking country up to the sixth grade, you may need to take an appropriate Chinese language course.
  • This test is not comparable to other Chinese tests like the AP, HSK, or IB.