What is HSK?
HSK is the world's third-largest language test brand after IELTS and TOEFL. HSK scores have become a requirement to prove Chinese language proficiency for international students to apply for admission, graduation, and scholarship in China. For foreigners looking to work in China, a high HSK score can help demonstrate that proficiency to employers and government officials, and better the chances of obtaining a working visa
The test consists of six levels, from HSK 1 to HSK 6, with HSK 1 the most basic and HSK 6 the most advanced.
Vocabulary for each level is officially attached, so you can improve your vocabulary for each level with KaoHan
| Level HSK | Preparation time (approx.) | Word count | General requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | 1-2 months | 150 | Ability to read and understand simple sentences, basic vocabulary, basic phrases and expressions. |
| HSK 2 | 2-4 months | 300 | Ability to read and understand short texts and dialogues, expanded vocabulary, ability to conduct simple conversations on everyday topics. |
| HSK 3 | 4-6 months | 600 | The ability to read and understand texts on various topics, vocabulary at the level of everyday communication, the ability to express one’s thoughts in simple Chinese phrases. |
| HSK 4 | 6-12 months | 1200 | The ability to read and understand texts on a variety of topics, a more complex vocabulary, the ability to conduct deeper discussions and explain your ideas. |
| HSK 5 | 12-18 months | 2500 | Ability to read and analyze complex texts, expanded academic and business vocabulary, ability to express opinions in a reasoned manner and participate in discussions. |
| HSK 6 | 18+ months | 5000 | The ability to read and analyze professional and scientific literature, a high level of vocabulary, the ability to think critically and write complex texts. |
HSK structure
| Level HSK | Type of tasks | Count of questions | Time to complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | Listening | 20 | 15 min. |
| Reading | 20 | 17 min. | |
| HSK 2 | Listening | 35 | 25 min. |
| Reading | 25 | 22 min. | |
| HSK 3 | Listening | 40 | 35 min. |
| Reading | 30 | 30 min. | |
| Writing | 10 | 15 min. | |
| HSK 4 | Listening | 45 | 30 min. |
| Reading | 40 | 40 min. | |
| Writing | 15 | 25 min. | |
| HSK 5 | Listening | 45 | 30 min. |
| Reading | 45 | 45 min. | |
| Writing | 10 | 40 min. | |
| HSK 6 | Listening | 50 | 35 min. |
| Reading | 50 | 50 min. | |
| Writing | 1 | 45 min. |
For each type of task, 100 points are awarded, that is, the maximum score for HSK 1-2 is 200, the maximum score for HSK 3-6 is 300. The passing score is 120 for HSK 1-2, 180 for HSK 3-6, i.e. 60% correct answers.
What is HSKK?
In addition to HSK, there is HSKK. HSKK (汉语水平口语考试) - The HSK speaking test evaluates test takers' speaking abilities in Chinese. It consists of three levels: beginner (together with HSK 1-2-3), intermediate (together with HSK 4) and advanced (together with HSK 5-6). The HSK speaking test is conducted in the form of an audio recording.
| Level HSKK | Type of tasks | Count of questions | Time to complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary | Listen And Repeat | 15 | 4 min. |
| Speaking based on pictures | 10 | 4 min. | |
| Answer the Questions | 2 | 3 min. | |
| Intermediate | Listen And Repeat | 10 | 5 min. |
| Speaking based on pictures | 2 | 4 min. | |
| Answer the Questions | 2 | 4 min. | |
| Advanced | Listen And Repeat | 3 | 8 min. |
| Read aloud | 1 | 2 min. | |
| Answer the Questions | 2 | 5 min. |