The clearest place to understand the HSK — then actually practice.
Version-labeled level hubs, a living HSK 3.0 guide, and a free placement diagnostic. When you want daily vocab and reading, continue in WordSwing.
Start with a level
All levelselementary
HSK 1
HSK 1 is the first written Chinese proficiency exam. It tests very basic listening and reading — greetings, numbers, time, and everyday needs — with pinyin on the paper.
2.0 list ~150 · 3.0 300 entries
elementary
HSK 2
HSK 2 still uses pinyin and has no writing section on the classic paper. It expands everyday topics — shopping, travel, simple plans — and is the last “beginner with training wheels” written exam.
2.0 list ~300 · 3.0 500 entries
elementary
HSK 3
HSK 3 is the first classic written paper with a writing section and without pinyin on the page. It is where many self-learners discover whether they actually read characters or only recognize pinyin.
2.0 list ~600 · 3.0 1,000 entries
intermediate
HSK 4
HSK 4 is the first intermediate paper and the level most often requested for undergraduate study, internships, and many jobs. The vocabulary doubles, texts get longer, and “I can chat” stops being enough.
2.0 list ~1,200 · 3.0 2,000 entries
intermediate
HSK 5
HSK 5 asks you to follow longer, more formal Chinese — news-like passages, opinions, and short essays. It is a common requirement for competitive programs and professional roles.
2.0 list ~2,500 · 3.0 3,600 entries
intermediate
HSK 6
HSK 6 is the top of the classic six-level written exam. It tests long listening, dense reading, and a condensed written summary. Passing it is not the same as native-like literacy.
2.0 list ~5,000 · 3.0 5,400 entries
advanced
HSK 7–9
HSK 7, 8, and 9 are not three separate papers. They share one advanced syllabus band and one long internet-based exam. Your result is placed at below 7, 7, 8, or 9.
2.0 list — · 3.0 11,000 entries
HSK overview
What the exam is, how the six-level paper works, and how to use this site.
HSK 3.0 living guide
Nine levels, new lists, and what is actually being administered right now.
Placement diagnostic
Twenty questions. An estimated band. A next hub to open.
Then continue in WordSwing
This site is for exam clarity and first practice. WordSwing is daily Chinese: word lists, reading, and interactive study. HSK is a path inside that, not a cram brand.