The photo for HSK registration: size, format and what is refused

HSK registration requires a recent (taken within 6 months) color bareheaded official photo of the candidate, preferably with a white background. The file size must be between 50kb and 500kb, and the format must be jpg. These rules appear in Step 3 (Fill in Your Personal Information and Verify It, then Upload a Photo) of the Exams information for candidates (test regulations) on the Chinese Test Service Website.

What the photo must be

The photograph must be a recent (taken within 6 months) color bareheaded official photo of the candidate. A white background is preferred. The file size must be between 50kb and 500kb. The format must be jpg.

What is not acceptable

Scenery photos, casual photos or photos with an incomplete facial display are not acceptable. Over-edited, PS-modified or AI-altered photos are not to be submitted.

Accessories and the religious exception

Wearing hats, headscarves, hair bands, sunglasses or other accessories is not allowed, except for religious reasons.

If the photo fails verification

Test centers reserve the right to refuse admission to candidates if the photograph fails verification or the candidate cannot be identified. CTI reserves the right to cancel candidates' scores, and no exam fee refund will be given in such cases.

Verify your mobile phone number

Step 3 also asks you to fill in your personal information correctly and verify your mobile phone number at this step.

Questions people ask

Can I wear a headscarf in my HSK registration photo?

Wearing hats, headscarves, hair bands, sunglasses or other accessories is not allowed, except for religious reasons.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

Test centers reserve the right to refuse admission to candidates if the photograph fails verification or the candidate cannot be identified. CTI reserves the right to cancel candidates' scores, and no exam fee refund will be given in such cases.

Sources

• Exams information for candidates (test regulations) — Chinese Testing International (CTI), Chinese Tests Service Website chinesetest.cn

Checked 11 October 2026

This page is an unofficial summary; it is not published by Chinese Testing International, the Center for Language Education and Cooperation or the Ministry of Education, and the official page prevails if they differ.