YCT (Youth Chinese Test) at Herts Mandarin
🌐 Official YCT Website: https://www.chinesetest.cn
What is YCT?
The YCT (Youth Chinese Test) is an internationally recognised Chinese language proficiency examination designed for children and young learners aged approximately 6–15 years old.
It provides a clear and structured pathway for students to develop their Mandarin skills and build confidence in listening, speaking, reading and writing.
The YCT consists of two independent assessments:
📝 YCT Writing Test
The Writing Test assesses listening, reading and writing skills and is divided into four levels:
YCT Level 1 – 80 words
YCT Level 2 – 150 words
YCT Level 3 – 300 words
YCT Level 4 – 600 words
🗣️ YCT Speaking Test
YCT Speaking (Beginner)
YCT Speaking (Intermediate)
🌱 YCT Learning Progression
🟢 YCT Level 1
Students can understand and use common Chinese words, phrases and simple sentences.
Equivalent: Pre-A1 / Early Beginner
🟡 YCT Level 2
Students can understand and use simple Chinese phrases and sentences for basic communication.
Vocabulary: 150 words
Equivalent: CEFR A1
🔵 YCT Level 3
Students can communicate on familiar daily topics and have developed a strong foundation in basic Chinese.
Vocabulary: 300 words
Equivalent: CEFR A2
🟣 YCT Level 4
Students can communicate in Chinese in everyday study and life situations and understand longer texts.
Vocabulary: 600 words
Equivalent: CEFR B1
🎯 Progression Pathway
YCT Level 1 → YCT Level 2 → YCT Level 3 → YCT Level 4 → GCSE Chinese → HSK Chinese
Many students use YCT as their first internationally recognised Chinese qualification before progressing to GCSE Chinese and higher-level Chinese examinations.
🎯 Why Take the YCT Exam?
YCT is more than just an exam. It helps students:
📈 Set clear learning goals
🧠 Improve listening, speaking, reading and writing skills
🏆 Gain an internationally recognised Chinese certificate
🎓 Build a strong foundation for GCSE Chinese and HSK
💪 Increase confidence and motivation in learning Mandarin
🏫 Herts Mandarin YCT Pathway
Recommended Levels
YCT Level 1
Current Level 2 students
Beginner Jinbu 1 students
YCT Level 2
Confident Jinbu 1 students
Jinbu 2 students who have not previously taken YCT
YCT Level 3
Confident Jinbu 2 students
Students who have completed YCT Level 2
If you are unsure which level is most suitable, we are happy to provide a free assessment and recommendation.
Summer 2026 YCT Programme
📚 Step 1: Home Preparation (July 2026)
Students prepare at home using:
Herts Mandarin Learning App
Structured YCT learning materials
Weekly guided practice activities
Home Learning Requirements
Level 1: approximately 10 lessons (10–15 minutes each)
Level 2: approximately 10 lessons (15–20 minutes each)
Level 3: approximately 20 lessons (20–30 minutes each)
🧪 Step 2: Mock Exams
Saturday, 15 August 2026
YCT Level 1
09:00–9:55
YCT Level 2
10:00-10:55
YCT Level 3
11:00-12:00
🎓 Step 3: Official YCT Exam
Date: Sunday, 16 August 2026
Time: Morning Session (09:00–12:00)
Further details regarding venue and individual schedules will be provided closer to the examination date.
📚 Optional Preparation Package
Provided by Herts Mandarin Exam Centre
YCT Level 1: £25
YCT Level 2: £25
YCT Level 3: £25
The package includes:
1 Mock Exams
Detailed Mock Exam Feedback
PDF Learning Materials
Access to the Herts Mandarin Learning App
Additional Practice Resources
💡 The preparation package is optional but strongly recommended to help students build confidence and achieve the best possible results.
📲 What Happens After Registration?
Step 1 – Confirmation
Parents will receive:
Level recommendation/confirmation
Exam registration confirmation
Learning resource information
Step 2 – App Access
Students receive:
Herts Mandarin App access
Weekly learning plan
Vocabulary and listening practice
Short daily and weekly tasks
Step 3 – Mock Exam Preparation
Structured mock exam practice
Teacher guidance and feedback
Identification of areas for improvement
Step 4 – Official Examination
Students attend the official YCT examination and receive an official certificate after results are released.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do students receive a certificate?
Yes. All students receive an official YCT certificate issued by the examination authority.
How long does it take to receive results?
Results are usually released within 4–8 weeks after the examination.
Is the preparation course compulsory?
No. However, preparation courses and mock exams significantly improve confidence and performance.
Can students skip the mock exam?
Yes, but participation is strongly recommended to help students become familiar with the exam format.
How much does the official YCT exam cost?
Paid directly to the examination authority:
Level 1: approximately £5 exam fee + £10 registration fee
Level 2: approximately £10 exam fee + £10 registration fee
Level 3: approximately £20 exam fee + £10 registration fee
📞 Contact & Registration
If you would like a free level assessment or would like to register:
Herts Mandarin is committed to helping every student succeed with confidence and enjoy their Mandarin learning journey.