HSK Exam Guide All guides
HSK levels, registration and scores, checked against the official pages
- Registration and test dates
HSK 3.0 launch: the first test date and the registration deadlines
CTI has announced that HSK 3.0 starts worldwide on 13 December 2026. The notice gives two registration deadlines, one for the paper-based test and one for the computer-based test.
Read the guide: HSK 3.0 launch: the first test date and the registration deadlines - HSK for study in China
Which HSK level do you need to study in China? What the official documents state
National rules set a floor for Chinese-taught degrees, and the Chinese Government Scholarship names HSK 4 or HSK 3 by programme type. The exact level and score are in each university's brochure.
Read the guide: Which HSK level do you need to study in China? What the official documents state - HSK levels
HSK levels explained: what each level tests and how many words it assumes
The HSK has levels 1 to 6 plus a combined test for levels 7 to 9. Here is what each one tests, how long it takes, the pass mark and the vocabulary figure, from the official level pages.
Read the guide: HSK levels explained: what each level tests and how many words it assumes
Find your way around
- HSK levelsWhat each HSK level tests, how long it takes and how many words it assumes, for the test on the official level pages and for the HSK 3.0 syllabus.
- Registration and test datesHow registration works on the official site, the 2026 test dates still ahead, and the paper-based and computer-based forms.
- Scores and certificatesPass marks, when results come out, how long a score report stays valid, and how score review and extra copies work.
- HSKK speaking testThe three levels of the HSK Speaking Test: length, number of questions, assumed vocabulary and pass mark.
- HSK for study in ChinaThe Chinese level that national rules and scholarship guides state for each kind of study, and where to check a university's own requirement.