The HSK 4 (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is the first level that tests practical Chinese fluency for academic and professional contexts. It requires knowledge of 1,200 commonly used words and the ability to discuss abstract topics with native speakers.
This page covers the exact exam pattern — sections, time limits, number of questions, marking scheme, and pass criteria. No fluff. Just what you need to plan your preparation.
HSK 4 Section List & Time Breakdown
The HSK 4 has three sections, administered in a single sitting. Total test time: 105 minutes (plus about 5 minutes for instructions and filling personal info).
| Section | Sub-parts | Number of Questions | Time Allotted | |---------|-----------|---------------------|---------------| | Listening | Part I, II, III | 45 | 30 minutes | | Reading | Part I, II, III | 40 | 40 minutes | | Writing | Part I, II | 15 | 25 minutes | | Total | — | 100 | 105 minutes |
Note: After the Listening section ends, you have 5 minutes to transfer answers to the answer sheet. The Reading and Writing sections are self-contained within their time limits.
Listening Section (45 questions, 30 minutes)
Three parts, each with increasing difficulty:
- Part I (10 questions): You hear a short statement or dialogue. Choose the correct picture from four options.
- Part II (15 questions): You hear a longer dialogue between two speakers. Answer true/false based on the content.
- Part III (20 questions): You hear a monologue or longer conversation. Select the correct answer from four written choices.
Each audio clip is played only once. No repeat. Questions are in Chinese (simplified characters) on the question paper.
Reading Section (40 questions, 40 minutes)
Three parts testing vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension:
- Part I (10 questions): Fill in the blank with the correct word from a list of 4–6 options. Tests word usage in context.
- Part II (10 questions): Rearrange scrambled words into a correct sentence. Write the sentence in the correct order.
- Part III (20 questions): Read passages (100–200 characters each) and answer multiple-choice questions. Topics include daily life, work, culture, and science.
Writing Section (15 questions, 25 minutes)
Two parts that test sentence construction:
- Part I (10 questions): You are given a list of words. Arrange them into a grammatically correct sentence. Write the sentence in Chinese characters.
- Part II (5 questions): You see a picture and a prompt word. Write one sentence (around 10–20 characters) describing the picture using the given word.
No essay or long composition. The focus is on accurate word order and basic grammar.
Marking Scheme & Scoring
- Total score range: 0–300
- Listening: 100 points (each question ~2.22 points)
- Reading: 100 points (each question ~2.5 points)
- Writing: 100 points (each question ~6.67 points)
Raw scores are converted to scaled scores. The official conversion table is not publicly disclosed, but the principle is: each section contributes equally to the total.
Take a free HSK 4 (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) demo mock to find out where you stand: Try the demo →
Pass Criteria
To pass HSK 4, you need a total score of 180 or above out of 300. There is no minimum per-section requirement. You can score low in one section and compensate with higher scores in others.
Example: Listening 60, Reading 70, Writing 50 = 180 (pass).
A score below 180 is a fail. No partial certification is given.
How the Exam is Conducted
HSK 4 is available in two formats:
- Paper-based test: You receive a question booklet and an answer sheet. Use a pencil to mark answers. Listening audio is played on a CD or speaker system.
- Internet-based test (IBT): You take the test on a computer at a test centre. Answers are selected on screen. Listening audio is delivered via headphones.
Both formats have the same content and timing. Check with your test centre which option is available.
Key Tips for HSK 4
- Vocabulary: Master the 1,200-word list. Use spaced repetition apps like Anki or Quizlet.
- Listening: Practice with HSK 4 past papers. Train to catch key information (time, place, numbers, opinion).
- Reading: Skim passages for main ideas before reading questions. Time is tight — 1 minute per question.
- Writing: Focus on correct word order. Common mistakes: missing measure words, wrong adverb placement, incorrect verb complements.
See HSK 4 (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) mock-test packs and pricing: View plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a dictionary during the HSK 4 exam?
No. Dictionaries, electronic devices, and notes are strictly prohibited. All vocabulary must be memorised beforehand.
How long are HSK 4 scores valid?
HSK scores are valid for two years from the test date. After that, the certificate expires.
Is there a negative marking for wrong answers?
No. There is no penalty for incorrect answers. You should attempt every question even if you are unsure.
Can I take HSK 4 online from home?
As of early 2026, HSK 4 is not offered as a home-based test. You must take it at an authorised test centre. Verify on the official portal — HSK 4 (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) fees were last revised in early 2026.
How many times can I take HSK 4?
There is no limit. You can retake the exam as many times as you wish. Most candidates pass after 2–3 attempts.
What is the difference between HSK 4 and HSK 5?
HSK 4 requires 1,200 words and tests basic fluency. HSK 5 requires 2,500 words and includes longer reading passages and a short essay in the writing section.
Do I need to write characters by hand in the writing section?
Yes. In both paper-based and IBT formats, you must write Chinese characters by hand (or type them in IBT using a standard input method). Pinyin is not accepted.