10 Things to Know About the HSK Exam (+ Mandarin Chinese Classes to Help You Pass It)
Ultimate Guide to the HSK Exam: Everything You Need to Know About HSK
The HSK exam (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is China’s only standardized test of Chinese language proficiency for non-native speakers.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking to measure your Chinese language skills, the HSK exam offers a structured and reliable way to evaluate your fluency.
The test was initiated by Beijing Language and Culture University and is now held annually in different cities in China and overseas. HSK is available both online or in paper-based format, and it’s administered in simplified Chinese characters. More and more foreigners start to show an interest in taking the HSK test, we are here to provide you with detailed answers to some frequently asked questions related to HSK.
1. Who’s eligible to take the HSK?
HSK test is open to all non-native Chinese speakers such as foreign students and employees, as well as overseas Chinese. If you are interested in the Chinese language and would like to test your language level, HSK is the right choice for you.
I took HSK as it was required by my university [in Shanghai]. That’s Mandarin helped me with the exam prep and also to register for the exam.
2. Where can I take the HSK?
3. When can I take HSK?
A detailed HSK test timetable for the following year is released at the end of the current year by Hanban (The Office of Chinese Language Council International). You can visit Hanban’s official website and then click on “Chinese Tests” to find out detailed information about the test dates.
Alternatively, you can download the pdf version of the HSK exam dates 2025 via the image link below.
4. How many grades does HSK consist of?
The current HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) Test is divided into 6 levels, ranging from HSK 1 to HSK 6. HSK’s six levels are designed to fit into the six levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
HSK 1 and HSK 2: Beginner level (CEFR A1-A2)
Suitable for learners just starting to study Chinese, covering basic words and phrases for daily communication.
HSK 3 and HSK 4: Intermediate level (CEFR B1-B2)
For learners who can handle everyday conversations and topics, with a solid grasp of grammar and vocabulary.
HSK 5 and HSK 6: Advanced level (CEFR C1-C2)
Aimed at learners with proficiency in complex language use, including reading and understanding newspapers, academic texts, and discussions.
These levels are designed to assess and certify the Chinese language proficiency of non-native speakers effectively.
Beginner's
HSK 1
HSK 2
Intermediate
HSK 3
HSK 4
Advanced
HSK 5
HSK 6
5. What’s the structure of the HSK test?
HSK 1 & HSK 2
HSK 1 and HSK 2levels focus on listening and reading only. All characters are provided along with Pinyin.
HSK 1:
Listening: 20 questions (true/false & multiple-choice)
Reading: 20 questions (multiple-choice)
HSK 2:
Listening: 35 questions (true/false & multiple-choice)
Reading: 25 questions (multiple-choice).
HSK 3 to HSK 6
HSK3 to HSK6 levels include listening, reading, and writing, with no Pinyin provided.
Learners are expected to demonstrate their ability to:
HSK 3 HSK 4: Handle daily communication tasks in both oral and written forms.
HSK 5-6: Express ideas fluently in diverse scenarios and comprehend complex texts.
These levels require students to demonstrate a good command of Chinese language knowledge from completing daily communicative tasks to smoothly express oneself in both written and oral form.
HSK 1 & HSK 2
HSK1 and HSK2 only contain listening and reading. HSK1 consists of 20 listening (true or false & multiple choice) and 20 reading multiple choice questions, whereas HSK2 consists of 35 listening (true or false & multiple choice) and 25 reading multiple choice questions. In HSK1 and HSK2 all characters are provided along with Pinyin.
HSK 3 to HSK 6
HSK3 to HSK6 consist of listening, reading and writing, all characters are provided without Pinyin. These levels require students to demonstrate a good command of Chinese language knowledge from completing daily communicative tasks to smoothly express oneself in both written and oral form.
How to Pass the Exam
6. How long will it take me to pass the HSK exam?
There are many factors need to be considered, for example, what courses do you take, how often do you get to practice with your Chinese friends, etc. Generally speaking, you should be able to:
After 3 - 5 months
After 3 to 5 months of systematic study you should be able to pass beginner’s level (HSK 1 and HSK 2), where you are supposed to be able to conduct simple daily conversations, understand frequently used expressions related to daily topics, and use simple Chinese sentences to express your own opinions or thoughts.
After 1 - 2 years
After 1 to 2 years of systematic study you will have the ability to pass intermediate level (HSK 3 and HSK 4), where you are capable of discussing a wide range of topics and interacting with Chinese native speakers with a degree of fluency and spontaneity.
After 4 - 5 years
However, there is a big gap between intermediate level and advanced level (HSK 5 – HSK 6), it will then take a considerable amount of time to master the knowledge to pass these two exams as they require students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the Chinese language such as understanding idioms, and the ability to use Chinese flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes.
How to Pass the Exam
HSK 1 & HSK 2
Maximum score: 200
Passing score: 120
HSK 3 to HSK 6
Maximum score: 300
Passing score: 180
7. Can I retake the HSK test if I fail?
There is no restriction on the number of times for taking the HSK test.
Therefore, you may take the test as many times as you wish.
8. Is there any preparation course available for HSK?
At That’s Mandarin, we offer both 1-on-1 tutoring and small group class for HSK preparation.
HSK Exam Chinese Classes
Private 1on1 Classes
Our 1on1 classes provide extremely flexible schedule. Students may cancel or postpone a class 24 hours in advance. Besides, 1on1 classes at That’s Mandarin allow students to learn Chinese more efficiently and quickly improve Chinese language skills using our innovative learning methods. Meanwhile, the teacher will 100% focus on the student’s performance and progress in listening, reading, writing and speaking to get the student prepared for HSK.
Part-time Group Classes
Small group classes at That’s Mandarin provide a more conducive learning environment, where there are only 2-9 students who study in one class. You will have more time to practice your Chinese in class as it certainly allows you to interact with other classmates and the teacher.
9. Should I take the HSK test?
It depends on what you need. HSK is China’s standardized test to test foreigners’ Chinese language proficiency. It’s classified into 6 levels, with level 1 being the lowest, and level 6 being the highest. Obtaining a Chinese proficiency certificate certainly has its advantages.
10. What advantages do I have by holding an HSK certificate in 2025?
Obtaining an HSK certificate certainly has its advantages. First of all, it certifies the possession of Chinese language skills when applying for a job in China, in fact, more and more companies have started to ask for a Chinese proficiency certificate when they hire foreign employees, some companies even state it in the job description as a requirement.
Second, if you are a student and would like to enter a Chinese university, it fulfills admission requirements when applying to different types of schools at various levels in China. Third, it’s also an advantage to hold an HSK certificate when applying for a work visa in China.
The next step
Now that you’ve decided to take or have taken the HSK exam, it’s important to know the validity of your certificate. If your HSK purpose is for college admission, it’s valid for 2 years. Otherwise, it’s valid indefinitely.
Whatever your purpose of taking the HSK is, it’s beneficial even just for your own reference. Plus it’s a bragging right, which you can add to your resume and edge out your competitors! An HSK certificate can be incredibly useful for those looking for work, just look at these online job opportunities in China.
Good luck on your HSK exam. And remember, you can always take our HSK preparation course to ensure you ace the exam!
