The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is China’s standardised Mandarin proficiency test, recognised worldwide for academic admission and employment. Understanding the structure of each level helps you choose your target, build an appropriate study plan, and avoid surprises on exam day.
HSK Level Overview
HSK runs from Level 1 (beginner) to Level 6 (near-native). Each level tests Listening, Reading, and — from Level 3 onward — Writing. The number of vocabulary words required jumps significantly at each level: 150 at Level 1, 300 at Level 2, 600 at Level 3, 1,200 at Level 4, 2,500 at Level 5, and 5,000 at Level 6.
Levels 1 and 2 are suitable for travellers and beginners. Level 4 is the minimum accepted by most Chinese universities for degree programmes. Level 5 meets professional workplace requirements. Level 6 is required for Chinese-language journalism, law, and academic research.
HSK 1 and HSK 2: Building Blocks
HSK 1 has 40 questions across Listening and Reading, scored out of 200, with a pass mark of 120. HSK 2 has 60 questions, scored out of 200, pass at 120. Both are multiple-choice only. Time limits are generous — the emphasis is on building confidence with basic vocabulary and simple sentence patterns.
HSK 3: First Writing Component
HSK 3 introduces a Writing section worth a third of the total score. Tasks include filling in blanks, rearranging words into sentences, and writing characters. With 600 words and 80 questions, HSK 3 represents a clear step up in complexity. Pass mark is 180 out of 300.
HSK 4: The International Standard
HSK 4 is the most widely taken level internationally. Its 100 questions cover Listening (45), Reading (40), and Writing (15). The writing section requires both sentence construction and a short written response. At 1,200 vocabulary words, this level corresponds roughly to CEFR B2. Pass mark: 180/300.
HSK 5: Professional Proficiency
HSK 5 raises the bar to 2,500 words and 100 questions. The listening section features longer monologues and news-style broadcasts. Reading passages are longer and more academic in register. The essay component requires 100 characters. This level aligns with CEFR C1.
HSK 6: Near-Native Command
HSK 6 has 101 questions, a 135-minute time limit, and the unique 400-character condensed writing task. With 5,000 target vocabulary words, it tests idiomatic expression, complex grammar, and stylistic awareness at approximately CEFR C2 level. Passing HSK 6 opens doors to Chinese postgraduate study and professional translation roles.
Computer-Based vs Paper-Based
HSK is now offered in both formats at most test centres. Computer-based tests provide instant scoring and are available more frequently. Paper-based remains the only option at some regional centres. The question types and pass standards are identical for both formats.
Ready to practise for HSK? Take a full-length HSK mock test at LanguageTest.in — AI-graded, timed, and structured exactly like the real exam.
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