Should I even bother taking a language assessment? How could I possibly be ready for graduate courses in Chinese?
Don't doubt yourself! Most incoming HNC students have completed 3-4 years of undergraduate Chinese language study. We don't expect you to be able to come in on your first day and be able to fluently discuss international relations in Chinese. This vocabulary is really something you pick up once you get to the HNC, so we encourage all interested students to take the STAMP test to gauge their level rather than assume their language ability is not high enough.
To request the STAMP test, you will first need to start an application to the Hopkins-Nanjing Center and complete the Chinese proficiency test tab. You will then be prompted to choose from two proctoring options: in person for $15 or virtual proctoring for $40. Once you complete this section of the application, you will receive an email within 2 business days from nanjing@jhu.edu with testing instructions and a link to pay your testing fee.
What's the format of the STAMP test?
The test questions are multiple-choice for both the listening and reading sections, and you can listen to every question twice. The STAMP is available in simplified Chinese only. If you are more familiar with traditional Chinese, that's ok! Just take your time and don't rush through it. Taking longer on the test won't have a negative impact on your results.
The test questions are multiple-choice for both the listening and reading sections, and you can listen to every question twice. The STAMP is available in simplified Chinese only. If you are more familiar with traditional Chinese, that's ok! Just take your time and don't rush through it. Taking longer on the test won't have a negative impact on your results.
The proficiency test covers diverse topics and subject matter. It tests your ability to understand main ideas from written Chinese passages and audio recordings. Note that there is no writing or speaking component to the STAMP. This test is reflective of the Hopkins-Nanjing Center’s classroom experience, in that you are tested on your comprehension rather than your ability to identify specific vocabulary words or grammar points.
The STAMP is also designed to challenge you and push you to the limit of your language ability. It is an adaptive test, which means as you answer questions correctly, the questions increase in difficulty. Even if you do not know the answer to a particular question, try your best to answer each question to the best of your ability. Applicants typically spend about 2 hours on this test.
Is there a practice test? How do I prepare?
There is a sample test available, but it is designed to ensure your computer is configured correctly for the reading and listening sections. The actual test will be more challenging. For example, you might read a section of a Chinese contract or listen to a segment of a real Chinese radio broadcast or interview.
We often have applicants ask the admissions team how they can prepare for the Chinese proficiency test. While there is no formal study guide or textbook to help you prepare, there are still things you can do in preparation to take the test. Regularly reading Chinese news articles can be a great way to practice your reading comprehension skills. To improve your listening skills, tuning in to Chinese news broadcasts and podcasts, or even watching Chinese TV shows, can help you get used to hearing native speakers talk at a natural pace. Another tip is to listen to something in Chinese right before the test, so you are already in "Chinese mode" before you begin. Below are some resources that previous HNC students have indicated are beneficial for self-study ahead of the test:
- The Chairman's Bao (articles with vocab lists, grammar structures and recordings)
- American Mandarin Society (Weekly newsletter with Chinese news and phrases, podcasts and other resources)
- Voice of America Chinese Podcast
- Sinocism Newsletter (weekly Chinese-US relations news in Chinese and English)
- Global Times (Chinese newspaper)
- CNKI Database for Chinese Academic Articles
To request the STAMP test, you will first need to start an application to the Hopkins-Nanjing Center and complete the Chinese proficiency test tab. You will then be prompted to choose from two proctoring options: in person for $15 or virtual proctoring for $40. Once you complete this section of the application, you will receive an email within 2 business days from nanjing@jhu.edu with testing instructions and a link to pay your testing fee.
When to take the test
You can take the test any time before our application deadline (November 1 for early notification or February 1 for regular notification), but we generally recommend taking the test when you first begin your application.
Can I take the test more than once?
You can take the test once every three months, so it is a good idea to get a head start on the test to allow room for retaking, if necessary. It is also important to note that retaking the test does not negatively impact your application, particularly if there are signs of improvement.
As you prepare to take the STAMP Chinese proficiency test, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Hopkins-Nanjing Center admissions office at nanjing@jhu.edu for assistance.
Getting your results
Once you have completed the test, you will need to notify the HNC Washington Office by emailing nanjing@jhu.edu, after which you will be emailed your test results.
Once you have completed the test, you will need to notify the HNC Washington Office by emailing nanjing@jhu.edu, after which you will be emailed your test results.
Test takers receive a Benchmark Level score for each section. These scores are categorized into three major levels (Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced), each with three sub-levels (low, mid, high). For those applying to the Certificate program (including the Certificate + MAIR and Certificate + MAIA), an Intermediate-High benchmark level is recommended. For those applying to the Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS), we recommend a score in any advanced level. Applicants scoring below these levels can still be admitted, but will need to complete additional Chinese language study prior to enrollment.
So start your application and request the STAMP Chinese language proficiency test today!
As you prepare to take the STAMP Chinese proficiency test, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Hopkins-Nanjing Center admissions office at nanjing@jhu.edu for assistance.