The Washback Effect of the HSK Level 7–9: International Students’ Perspectives in China

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session Three
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT041 (Friday)

Abstract

This study investigates the washback effect of the newly introduced HSK Level 7–9 on international postgraduate students in China. Unlike earlier levels, HSK 7–9 adopts a unified test format and targets advanced academic language users, yet little is known about its influence on learners. Using a mixed-methods design, this research explores how students perceive its impact on their learning behaviors, skill development, and academic readiness. Drawing on the PPP model, the study addresses a critical research gap in Chinese language assessment and contributes evidence to support learner-centered, development-oriented testing policies for high-level Chinese proficiency.

Author

• Yiru Gong, University of Pennsylvania