Realistic Goal for New HSK?

[Liebkuchen]

I understand the old levels and that as a full time student of Chinese, in China, a level 3 pass would be achievable in a year.

Now my circumstances will be that of an English teacher, in China, so I'm probably looking at two privately tutored lessons in Chinese a week plus spending my evenings and weekends using and studying Chinese wherever possible. I need a goal to set myself.

With the change to the new levels, what should I aim at that requires work but would be achievable with consistent study? What would that equate to in the old system?

[Liebkuchen]

Found this thread: http://www.chinese-forums.com/index.php?/topic/28666-new-hsk-exam-levels/page__st__40

Would the (new) level 4 seem do-able?

[roddy]

My advice, to be honest, would be to take a low level exam in the first few months if possible, and then set yourself a goal for the next sitting. Etc. Or take mock exams and do the same.

[Liebkuchen]

Thanks, Roddy. It does seem sensible to break it up into smaller steps. I think I'd take it more seriously if I booked a real one with the cost to motivate me. I'll look into it asap on arriving (5 weeks to go!)