HSK Levels 2026: A Complete Guide to Old(1-6) vs New HSK(1-9)

If you’re studying Chinese language, you’ve likely come across the term “HSK.” The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is China’s official proficiency test for non-native Chinese speakers. It is recognized internationally and has six levels, from HSK1 for beginners to HSK9 for advanced learners.

Each level is one step in learning Chinese. Knowing the requirements for each HSK level will help you plan your study and set goals. In this guide, WuKong Education explains all HSK levels, their link to the CEFR scale, and their importance. So, you can easily find out how you can accurately assess your Chinese proficiency .

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

What Is HSK?

HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is an official Mandarin proficiency test in China. It is specifically designed for non-native speakers. The test is divided into levels to assess language proficiency. The examination levels range from basic communication to complex academic fluency.
Each ascending level demands a broader vocabulary and a deeper grasp of grammar. The test’s format combines listening, reading, and writing skills from Level 3 onwards. Success in HSK often facilitates university admission in China. And it also enhances professional resumes to bridge language barriers for individuals worldwide.

Benefits Of Achieving Higher Levels

High HSK levels give many advantages.

• Personal: It shows strong commitment and skill in language learning.
• Academic: Chinese universities often require HSK for admission.
• Professional: Employers value HSK in international jobs.
• Cultural: Learners understand Chinese books, films, and history.

Old HSK vs. New HSK Levels: Key Differences Explained

The transition from Old HSK (version 2.0, used until around 2021) to New HSK 3.0 has been a game-changer. The old system had six straightforward levels, emphasizing basic to intermediate skills with a gentler curve. However, it fell short in distinguishing advanced abilities, often leaving HSK 6 passers struggling with native content.

The New HSK introduces nine bands across three stages: Elementary (Bands 1-3), Intermediate (Bands 4-6), and Advanced (Bands 7-9). The 2025 update lowered vocabulary requirements for beginner levels to improve accessibility. And it also raises the depth of learning at advanced stages. For example, Band 1 now requires only 300 words—reduced from 500 in earlier versions. The new HSK 3.0 need deeper skills such as handwriting, translation, and cultural understanding at higher levels.

Here’s a quick comparison table to visualize the shifts:

This evolution ensures HSK levels better prepare you for professional or academic Chinese use. If you’re transitioning from old materials, check out our beginner Chinese courses for a smooth bridge.

Basic Information on HSK Levels

The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK), or Chinese Proficiency Test, is an international test for Chinese learners. This examination is crucial for Chinese language learners, as it checks listening, reading, and writing skills. It has 9 levels, from beginner to advanced.

Overview of HSK Exam Levels

The HSK measures Chinese ability for non-native speakers. Each level shows how much a learner can understand, read, write, and use Chinese.

• HSK1–2: Beginner. Basic words and phrases for daily life.
• HSK3–4: Intermediate. Can talk about familiar topics and read simple texts.
• HSK5–6: Advanced. Can discuss complex topics and read newspapers or books.
• HSK7–9: Very advanced. Can read long texts, academic materials, and use formal or Classical Chinese.

Each level builds on the previous one. Vocabulary, grammar, and character knowledge increase at every step. The HSK also links to the CEFR scale, helping learners compare Chinese skills to other languages.

How to Self-Assess Your Chinese Proficiency

Before diving into exams, gauge your HSK level with these methods:

• Online Quizzes: Free tools on sites like Chinese Zero to Hero offer level estimators.
• Vocabulary Check: Count how many words you know from official lists—if under 500, you’re likely Band 1-2.
• Skill Tests:
• Listening: Can you follow a 5-minute conversation?
• Reading: Understand a short news article?
• Writing: Compose a 100-word paragraph without major errors?

Importance of HSK Levels

The HSK includes listening, reading, and writing. Each level has harder questions.

• At HSK 1, you listen to short and simple sentences.
• At HSK 9, you read idioms, long essays, and complex grammar.

The HSK is important for students who want to study at a Chinese university. It is also useful for professionals who need Chinese in their jobs. Employers and schools around the world accept the HSK certificate.

The HSK does not test speaking. For speaking ability, you need to take the HSKK (spoken test). HSKK checks pronunciation, fluency, and tones.

The New HSK Levels Explained

Let’s unpack each of the nine HSK levels in the New HSK 3.0 framework. We’ll cover required vocabulary, key skills, and CEFR equivalents, based on the 2025 updates. This detailed view helps you pinpoint where you stand and what to target next.

HSK 1 (Elementary): Beginner Basics

• HSKVocabulary: 300 words
• Characters: 246
• Skills: Understand and use very simple phrases for greetings, numbers, and daily needs. Basic listening and reading of pinyin-supported text.
• CEFR Equivalent: A1
• Who It’s For: Absolute beginners. You can say “Hello, how are you?” and handle simple transactions.

HSK 2 (Elementary): Simple Conversations

• HSKVocabulary: 500 words (cumulative)
• Characters: 371
• Skills: Engage in basic exchanges about family, hobbies, and routines. Read short sentences without pinyin.
• CEFR Equivalent: A1
• Who It’s For: Learners ready for everyday chit-chat, like ordering food or asking directions.

HSK 3 (Elementary): Everyday Communication

• HSKVocabulary: 1,000 words
• Characters: 655
• Skills: Describe experiences, dreams, and opinions in simple terms. Handle short paragraphs and basic dialogues.
• CEFR Equivalent: A2
• Who It’s For: Those comfortable in routine situations, such as shopping or travel.

HSK 4 (Intermediate): Functional Fluency

• HSKVocabulary: 2,000 words
• Characters: 1,096
• Skills: Discuss familiar topics with some detail, read articles on everyday life, and write short essays.
• CEFR Equivalent: B1
• Who It’s For: Intermediate users who can manage work or social interactions independently.

HSK 5 (Intermediate): Deeper Discussions

• HSKVocabulary: 3,600 words
• Characters: 1,527
• Skills: Explain viewpoints on current issues, understand TV news, and compose structured texts.
• CEFR Equivalent: B2
• Who It’s For: Confident speakers handling complex scenarios, like debates or reports.

HSK 6 (Intermediate): Advanced Application

• HSK6Vocabulary: 5,400 words
• Characters: 2,026
• Skills: Comprehend long texts, express fluently on abstract topics, and write detailed arguments.
• CEFR Equivalent: C1
• Who It’s For: Near-professional level, suitable for university studies.

Bands 7-9 (Advanced): Mastery and Expertise

• Vocabulary: Up to 11,092 words (cumulative across bands)
• Characters: 2,363 (Band 7) to 3,000 (Band 9)
• Skills: Handle academic papers, professional translations, speeches, and cultural subtleties. Includes oral exams and handwriting.
• CEFR Equivalent: C1 (Band 7) to C2+ (Band 9)
• Who It’s For: Experts aiming for translation, research, or native-like proficiency.

How To Get Prepared For The HSK Exam

Succeeding in HSK levels requires a balanced approach. Here are tailored tips:

1. For Elementary Bands (1-3): Focus on flashcards for vocabulary and apps like Duolingo for daily practice. Listen to simple podcasts and repeat phrases aloud.
2. For Intermediate Bands (4-6): Read graded readers and watch Chinese dramas with subtitles. Practice writing characters daily—aim for 30 minutes. Join study groups for conversation.
3. For Advanced Bands (7-9): Dive into newspapers like People’s Daily. Simulate exams with timed mocks. Incorporate translation exercises and debate clubs.

HSK Exam General advice:

1. Embrace Structured Learning

Start with HSK textbooks and online courses. They include grammar, vocabulary, and practice tests. Study step by step before moving to the next level.

2. Leverage Multimedia Resources

Diversify your study methods. Incorporate multimedia resources like Chinese films, podcasts, and music. This exposure enhances listening skills and familiarizes you with various dialects and accents. Watch Chinese movies.Listen to music and podcasts. Use apps to practice real-life conversations.

3. Practice with Mock Exams

Regular practice with mock exams is indispensable. These simulate the actual test environment, helping you adapt to its timing and structure. Analyze your performance in these exams to identify areas needing improvement. Do past papers and practice tests. Learn the timing and question types. Review mistakes and improve weak areas.

4. Engage in Conversational Practice

Conversational practice bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Engage with native speakers or join language exchange groups. In addition, Talk to native speakers, join online language exchange groups. This improves confidence and helps with daily conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many levels are in the HSK test?

There are six official levels (HSK1–HSK6), but now HSK7–9 exist for advanced learners.

2. Why should you take the HSK sample tests?

Different Chinese tests are designed to serve different needs and users. Taking HSK sample tests provides several benefits for Chinese learners. Besides, they help you become familiar with the test format and timing while assessing your current proficiency. Practicing with these tests improves your test-taking skills and boosts your confidence.

Additionally, they highlight areas for targeted study and expose you to relevant vocabulary and topics. Overall, sample tests are a valuable tool for effective HSK exam preparation.

3. Does HSK Level 9 have advanced requirements?

Yes. It needs 5,000+ words. You must understand long texts and complex ideas. You should also read academic and professional materials.

4, Are HSK certificates recognized globally?

Absolutely. Universities and companies around the world accept HSK. They often use it as proof of Chinese language ability.

5. What benefits does a high HSK level provide?

High HSK levels open doors for study, work, and culture. They allow you to join universities in China. They help with jobs in trade, diplomacy, and global business.

Achieving high HSK levels yields significant academic, professional, and cultural benefits.

Conclusion

The HSK is the main way to test Chinese proficiency. From HSK1 to HSK9, each step builds skills in listening, reading, and writing. Higher levels open academic, professional, and cultural opportunities.

Taking the HSK shows your dedication to learning Chinese. It connects you with Chinese culture and improves global communication.

Bella | WuKong Chinese Teacher

Bella holds a Master’s degree from Yangzhou University and brings 10 years of extensive experience in K-12 Chinese language teaching and research. A published scholar, she has contributed over 10 papers to the field of language and literature. Currently, Bella leads the research and development of WuKong Chinese core courses, where she prioritizes academic rigor alongside student engagement and cognitive development. She is dedicated to building a robust foundation for young learners covering phonetics (Pinyin), characters, idioms, and classical culture while ensuring that advanced courses empower students with comprehensive linguistic mastery and cultural insight.