HSK 1
total 150150 new words
Your first everyday phrases: introductions, family, numbers and shopping. HSK 2.0 exam questions include pinyin alongside the characters.
HSK levels
6 levels · 5,000 words
HSK (汉语水平考试) is a Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers. The HSK 2.0 syllabus has six levels, from 150 words at level 1 to 5,000 across all six. Explore the vocabulary and grammar for each level below.
HSK 2
total 300150 new words
A wider everyday vocabulary for past events, directions, weather, transport and shopping conversations.
HSK 3
total 600300 new words
A step toward connected speech and longer texts. The HSK 2.0 exam adds writing, and reading passages no longer include pinyin.
HSK 4
total 1,200600 new words
Longer conversations and texts, more abstract topics, and the vocabulary to explain and support an opinion.
HSK 5
total 2,5001,300 new words
A broader vocabulary for news, films and extended discussions of everyday and social topics.
HSK 6
total 5,0002,464 new words
The highest HSK 2.0 level: complex texts, idiomatic expressions and written summaries of what you have read.
Two HSK standards
HSK 2.0 has six levels and 5,000 words in total. The newer HSK 3.0 syllabus has nine levels and 10,896 distinct words. The level numbers do not mean identical requirements; for an exam, check the syllabus offered by your test center.
How the levels work
HSK 2.0 levels 1 and 2 cover everyday communication through listening and reading, with pinyin alongside the Chinese text. Levels 3–6 add writing, and pinyin no longer accompanies the reading passages. Some writing tasks still use pinyin as a prompt.
Vocabulary requirements are cumulative: HSK 4 covers the words from levels 1–4, not just the words introduced at level 4. Start at level 1 if you are new to Chinese; otherwise, compare the word lists and grammar to find material you still need to learn.
The counts describe the full syllabus. Links open complete English word lists where available, or the published word cards for that level in the English dictionary. For an exam, check the syllabus that applies to your test date and center.
HSK reference
HSK 2.0 vs HSK 3.0: what has changed?
HSK 2.0 has six levels and 5,000 words across our level lists. HSK 3.0 has nine levels and 10,896 words. The level numbers look familiar, but the vocabulary and requirements differ. For an exam, check which syllabus applies to your test date and center.
Grammar by HSK level
Grammar rules for each level, with structures, examples and explanations.
Frequently asked questions
How many HSK levels are there?
HSK 2.0 has six levels. The newer HSK 3.0 syllabus has nine, with levels 7–9 grouped into one advanced vocabulary list. Check which syllabus applies to your exam before choosing materials.
Which HSK level should I start with?
Start with HSK 1 if you are new to Chinese. If you have studied before, work through the vocabulary lists and grammar in order to find the first level with material you do not yet know.
Which HSK level do I need to study in China?
The requirement depends on the university, degree program and language of instruction. Check the institution’s current admission requirements, including which HSK syllabus and score report it accepts.
Do I have to take HSK levels in order?
You can register for the level you need without taking each earlier level. Its vocabulary requirements still include the words from the preceding levels.