Need to clear up details on one year program

[Brian US]

I am sure some of my questions are answered in the sticky or other threads. Although I am starting with the one year program I want to stay until I am fluent. This of course depends on how hard I work. May I continue with long term programs, where the classes get harder, or must I enter into the four year degree program?

I know I must get a HSK of 3 or higher for the four year, so I didn't know if I should just take it in 6 months and switch programs. I have also heard from a few students that once I start a degree program they will start you from the beginning.

I am registering tomorrow and I am sure they will have more information, but I wanted to get the inside from these lovely forums.

Post in summary: I want to study Chinese for several years, so should I do long term programs in the College of Advanced Chinese Training or go into the B.A. program?

thanks!

[XiaoBin]

I only did the short term. There we have placement test where they evaluate your level. After that you'll be put in the right class. I'm pretty sure the 1 yr program has that aswell.

Not sure how the BA program works.

HSK 3 is not hard to achieve. I think that after 6 months - 12 months you'll be able to get a 3 or 4. Ask your teacher when your class starts. I'm sure they will be able to tell you. The one year program provides free "dummy" HSK tests (but you won't get a certificate). This way you can test your level. I'm not sure how it works. I believe the offer it every 2 years or something. I just know my friend who did the 1 yr program last year had a free HSK test. Again ask your teacher about it.