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The New HSK (2024): An Overview and What’s Changed

The HSK is an official, standard Chinese proficiency test used in international Chinese language education. Starting July 2021, the New HSK standard will replace the previous six-level model. The New HSK 3.0 has a more specific classification system, including both levels and bands. Comparing the difficulty and quantity of words required for all four-dimension benchmarks (syllables, characters, vocabulary, and grammar), the New HSK is more rigorous than the old one. Here is a brief overview of the New HSK and how it differs from the old HSK.

General Overview of New HSK quantitative criteria

NEW HSK

Level

Band

Syllable

Character

Vocabulary

Grammar

Elementary

1

269

300

500

48

2

468

600

1272

129

3

608

900

2245

210

Intermediate

4

724

1200

3245

286

5

822

1500

4316

357

6

908

1800

5456

424

Advanced

7 / 8 / 9

1110

3000

11092

572

Total

1110

3000

11092

572

Why the New HSK 3.0?

1.    The new HSK classifies learners’ Chinese proficiency more precisely because it includes has three stages and nine levels. It uses four basic Chinese language elements (syllables, characters, vocabulary, and grammar) as well as verbal communication skills, and situational exercises to form its evaluation dimensions, which determine learners’ Chinese proficiency accurately.

2.    The New HSK will align with other international guidelines, such as CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages).

3.    It fully reflects the elements required for language competency. Besides listening, reading, and writing, skills such as speaking, handwriting Chinese characters, and translation will also be tested.

4.    The newly added advanced level in the new HSK, from Band 7 to Band 9, is designed for learners who major in Chinese language and literature or sinologists. If you want to study for a master’s degree or Ph.D. in Chinese, or just want to challenge yourself, this new HSK is for you.

About the HSK and its history

HSK refers to the Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì, the official, standard Chinese proficiency test, which came about in 1992 and was organized by Hànbàn, an affiliation of the Ministry of Education of China, which is also in charge of the Confucius Institutes worldwide. The HSK test is held regularly in China and other countries each year. It`s the most widely accepted Chinese language test in the world.

The original HSK 1.0 version was used from 1990 to 2009. There were 11 ranks and 3 test formats. Since it was criticized for being impractical and using too many obscure historical and cultural references, the current HSK 2.0 version came out in 2010. There was a huge reformation of the ranking system, from the original 11 levels to 6 levels. The HSK 2.0 was quite successful thanks to its lowered requirements and gentle learning curve. However, the 2.0 version does not correspond to other 6-level systems, like the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). In 2021, the HSK 3.0, also known as the New HSK, was just introduced and included new standards.

The main differences between the current HSK and the New HSK

1.   The New HSK has a more specific level classification

The old HSK had 6 levels, while New HSK has 3 levels, each including 3 distinct bands. Unlike the current HSK, the New HSK has three more bands for ranking advanced learners.

NEW HSK 3.0

CURRENT HSK 2.0

Level

Band

Required Vocabulary

Required Vocabulary

Level

Elementary

1

500

150

1

2

1272

300

2

3

2245

600

3

Intermediate

4

3245

1200

4

5

4316

2500

5

6

5456

5000

6

Advanced

7 / 8 / 9

11092

/

/

Access New HSK Vocabulary List here >>

2. The four-dimension benchmarks of the New HSK

The New HSK uses four basic Chinese language elements to form its Four-dimension Benchmarks, which accurately determine learners’ Chinese proficiency. These benchmarks include syllables, characters, vocabulary, and grammar. Each level and band have its own specific requirements for each dimension.

Four-dimension Benchmarks

Syllables

Characters

Vocabulary

Grammar

3. The increased difficulty of New HSK standard

Compared to the current HSK 2.0, there is an obvious increase in the difficulty and number of words required for each band. In other words, if you took the current HSK 3 test and passed, that only equals the New HSK elementary level band 1/2.  Many new words have been added, and also some outdated and less-frequently used words have been dropped from the list.

4. New skills required for the New HSK

The New HSK requires learners to master five verbal communication skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translation. Students need to be able to apply these five abilities to talk about different topics in various situations in Chinese.

Handwriting Chinese characters and translation have been newly added.

The test requires learners to be able to COPY the required characters at Band 1 ~ 3 and even sets a minimum speed for copying them. So, it makes learning to write Chinese characters a MUST, even for those who weren’t interested in learning.

The New HSK standards also require learners to have spoken and written translation skills starting at band 4.

Characters Handwriting Requirement

Band

1

2

3

4

5

6

7-9

Required Handwriting Characters

100

200

300

100

250

400

500

Handwriting Speed

≥10 characters per minute

≥15 characters per minute

≥20 characters per minute

/

/

/

/

When will the HSK tests change?

For HSK 1-6, the current tests and classification will not change recently. Thus, the current HSK learning materials and courses still work for all learners at DigMandarin. The New HSK 3.0 HSK 1-6 will adjust accordingly in the future 3-5 years. Once all the changes are released officially, we will keep you updated immediately. For more about the current HSK, you can check and know it here: The HSK Complete Guide (Level 1-6)

HSK Advanced level (Band 7-9) will be introduced as testing on Dec. 2021, while the official test will work on March 2022.

What does this mean for the learners

>  For all learners in general

In a word, for all learners and test-takers, it is becoming more challenging to learn Chinese. There are more required vocabulary words, grammar concepts, and general content in each band, but it is also more adapted to the current world. More new and practical words have been added, while some outdated or rarely used words have been dropped, meaning it is up to date and useful for learners in real life. It’s easier for learners to use the same language skills in daily life and for academic tests. What’s even more important, the learning process becomes more fun and practical with modern learning materials.

>  For the current HSK test takers

If you have already taken the current HSK 2.0 tests, it’s totally okay. The only difference is that the current HSK levels are not equivalent to the new HSK. The current HSK levels 1 to 3 are regarded as the new HSK’s elementary level Band 1/2, while there are three bands in the new HSK that are divided evenly between levels 5 and 6 of the old HSK.

Besides the old HSK’s listening, reading and writing requirements, you need to pay attention to and start practicing handwriting Chinese characters and translation, which you will be tested on too. 

>  For advanced learners

For those who have passed level 6 of the current HSK and felt aimless, you can start setting your sights on new learning goals now, such as being a certificated advanced learner. The new HSK adds a whole new level for advanced learners and provides corresponding standards and new learning content. The advanced level of the new HSK from Band 7 to Band 9 is designed for learners who major in Chinese language and literature or sinologists. You will also be tested on your translation ability then. If you take the new HSK’s advanced level test, your band would be determined based on your score.

>  For those who don’t want to learn Chinese characters

Unlike level 1 and level 2 of the current HSK 2.0, learning to handwrite Chinese characters is a must for the new HSK. Learners should learn to write characters from the very beginning and be able to master characters’ stroke order and writing rules as well as punctuation rules. Basic Chinese writing skills are also required. Besides character writing accuracy, there is also a minimum writing speed required in each band. 

We’ll always continue to update it with the latest information, including new HSK test timing, formats, and learning resources at Dig Mandarin. Make sure you subscribe to us and stay tuned!

New HSK levels in detail

Elementary Level (Band 1-3)

Target:

Understand simple texts and hold basic and routine conversations requiring a simple exchange of information in daily, academic, professional and social contexts.

Understand basic knowledge of Chinese culture and master simple social interaction strategies to help with communication.

Requirements:

Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
608 900 2245 210 300

Band 1

Verbal communication skills:

Be able to communicate and have brief, basic social interactions on familiar topics.

Topics:

Personal information, daily routines, food, transportation, hobbies, etc.

Tasks:

Use polite words and sentences in different social situations.

Be able to recognize simple information in a public environment and make inquiries and confirmations.

Requirements:

Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
269 300 500 48 100 ≥10 characters per minute
Listening Learners should be able to understand all the required topics and tasks for Band 1, including simple dialogues (≤80 words) including basic words or simple sentences. The dialogue will be at a pace of least 100 characters per minute. Understand basic information with the help of pictures, objects, etc.
Speaking Master all required syllables for Band 1 and pronounce them correctly. Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 1 to hold interactions and speak about various topics. Have simple dialogues with commonly used words and sentences.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤100 characters) on required topics. Recognize daily signs and get basic information from simple notes, files and maps. Read at a speed of at least 80 characters per minute.
Writing Master 100 characters from the required handwriting list. Be able to copy the characters correctly with a handwriting speed of at least10 characters per minuteUnderstand stroke order and character writing sequence, as, as well as basic punctuation. Be able to fill out basic personal information and write notes with simple words and sentences.

Band 2

Verbal communication skills:

Be able to communicate briefly and have basic social interactions on familiar topics.

Topics:

Simple social interactions, family, study plan, shopping, dining, personal feelings, etc.

Tasks:

For instance,

Order in a Chinese restaurant and talk about it with friends.

Recognize and fill in personal information on a school enrollment form.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 468 600 1272 129 200 ≥15 characters per minute
New 199 300 772 81 100
Listening Understand all the required topics and tasks from Band 2, including daily speech or dialogues  (≤150 words) based on simple sentences and some compound sentences. The dialogue will be at a pace of at least 140 characters per minute Understand basic information with the help of gestures, facial expressions, etc.
Speaking Master all required syllables from Band 2 and pronounce them correctly. Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 2 to hold interactions and speak about various topics Have dialogues and social interactions and make statements with simple sentences.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤200 characters) on required topics with the help of pinyin, illustrations and a dictionary. Understand information from introductory or narrative materials and understand regular notes, emails, etc.Read at a speed of at least 100 characters per minute.
Writing Master 200 characters from the required handwriting list. Be able to copy the characters correctly with a handwriting speed of at least 15 characters per minuteUnderstand stroke order and character writing sequence, as, as well as basic punctuation. Write basic information on topics such as personal life and studies with simple sentences within the allotted time. (≥100 characters)

Band 3

Verbal communication skills:

Be able to communicate and complete daily social interactions on basic topics such as daily life, studies and work.

Topics:

Travel, courses, entertainment, festivals and customs, education, occupations, etc.

Tasks:

Talk about travel plans and customs of traditional festivals such as the Spring festival.

Be able to give formal invitations orally or in writing and respond to other’s invitations.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 608 900 2245 210 300 ≥20 characters per minute
New 140 300 973 81 100
Listening Understand all the required topics and tasks from Band 3, including daily speech or dialogues (≤300 words) based on long simple sentences and simple compound sentences. The dialogue will be at a pace of at least 180 characters per minute which is close to normal speaking speed. Understand key information with the help of voices, intonation, changes in speaking speed, etc.
Speaking Master all required syllables for Band 3 and pronounce them correctly. Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 3 to hold interactions and speak about various topics Be able to communicate or discuss with comparatively complex sentences.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤300 characters) on required topics. Understand simple compound sentences and the general meaning and details of narrative and illustrative materials.Understand the meaning of new words with dictionaries and possess the ability of skimming and skipping reading.Read at a speed of at least 120 characters per minute
Writing Master 300 characters from the required handwriting list. Be able to copy the characters correctly with a handwriting speed of at least20 characters per minuteMaster stroke order and character writing sequence, as, as well as basic punctuation. Be able to have simple written communication and be able to write emails, announcements and narrative compositions fluently and clearly within the allotted time. (≥200 characters)

Intermediate (Band 4-6)

Target:

Understand materials covering various topics and have conversations fluently. Be able to express oneself in paragraphs about topics such as daily life, work, occupations, culture, etc. Know how to apply common social strategies and have a good knowledge of Chinese culture.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 908 1800 5456 424 700
New + 300 + 900 + 3211 + 214 + 400

Band 4

Verbal communication skills:

Possess standard listening, speaking, reading, writing skills, as well as basic translation skills. Be able to have a complete and effective conversations on the topics such as daily life, studies, work, etc.

Topics and tasks:

Community life, health, school life, daily work, animals, plants, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, describe your health issues when seeing a doctor, write a simple advertisement for a part-time job, respond to other’s inquiries. 

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 724 1200 3245 286 100
New + 116 + 300 + 1000 + 76
Listening Understand the required topics and tasks for Band 4, including informal dialogues or speeches (≤400 words) with a natural, authentic intonation, at a normal speaking speed – about 180-200 characters per minute.Understand hidden meanings such as sarcasm or humor, and consider cultural knowledge while listening.Be able to discern accurate information, even if there might be redundancies or unnecessary pauses in someone’s speech.
Speaking Master all required syllables for Band 4 with correct pronunciation and natural intonation.Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 4 to hold interactions and speak about various topics Be able to use some complex sentences to describe situations, make statements and express feelings in paragraphs fluently and accurately.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤500 characters) on required topics and tasks. Understand key information from narrative, explanatory and argumentative texts.Possess strong reading skills, including skimming, guessing and associating.Read at a speed of at least140 characters per minute.
Writing Master 100 characters from the required handwriting list. Have a complete understanding of characters’ structure.Be able to use different patterns to compose paragraphs and compose simple narrative and explanatory texts within the allotted time. (≥300 characters)
Translation Possess basic translation skills. Be able to translate content from Band 4’s required topics completely and recognize its related culture. Be able to perform fluent oral interpretation in informal settings.  Be able to accurately translate simple written narrative and explanatory content.

Band 5

Verbal communication skills:

Possess standard listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as basic translation skills. Be able to have complete fluent and effective conversations on topics such as complicated situations related to daily life, studies, work, etc.

Topics and tasks:

Social interactions, lifestyle, study methods, nature, social phenomena, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, exchange opinions over common social phenomena, reply to emails or describe your study methods and suggestions.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 822 1500 4316 357 250
New + 98 + 300 + 1071 + 71
Listening Understand the required topics and tasks from Band 5, including informal and formal dialogues or speeches (≤500 words) with a natural, authentic intonation at anormal speaking speed – about 200-220 characters per minute.Understand culture related to the dialogue or speech.Be able to discern accurate key information and some details, even if there might be redundancies or unnecessary pauses in someone’s speech.
Speaking Master all required syllables from Band 5 with correct pronunciation and natural intonation.Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 5 to hold interactions and speak about various topics. Be able to use paragraphs with complex structures to describe things, express personal opinions and convey complex feelings logically and appropriately.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤700 characters) on required topics. Be able to understand main points and arguments from narrative, explanatory and argumentative texts over your own comments and thoughts. Understand hidden meanings and cultural factors by reading between the lines and making logical references. Possess strong reading skills including skimming, guessing, associating and searching for information.Read at a speed of at least characters per minute.
Writing Master 250 characters from the required handwriting list. Be able to analyze the common characters’ structures.Be able to use complex structures to write paragraphs and compose regular narrative, explanatory and simple argumentative texts within the allotted time. (≥450 characters) Know basic writing styles
Translation Possess basic translation skills. Be able to translate the content from Band 5’s required topics completely and handle with its related culture. Be able to perform fluent oral interpretation in informal settings.  Be able to translate normal written narrative and explanatory content accurately.

Band 6

Verbal communication skills:

Possess standard listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as regular translation skills. Be able to have a complete fluent, rich and decent discussion on topics such as work and professional level studies.

Topics and tasks:

Social interactions, business issues, contradictions, social news, cross-cultural comparison, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, talk about historical and cultural differences in informal settings, understand social news and make remarks.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 908 1800 5456 424 400
New + 85 + 300 + 1140 + 67
Listening Understand the required topics and tasks from Band 6 (≤600 words count) with a natural, authentic intonation and accent at a normal or somewhat fast speaking speed – about 220-240 characters per minute.Be able to understand someone’s real intentions and related cultural factors, even if there might be speech impediments or problems in someone’s speech.
Speaking Master all required syllables from Band 6 with correct pronunciation and natural intonation.Use the vocabulary and grammar from Band 6 to hold interactions and speak about various topics Be able to use paragraphs with complex structures to speak smoothly, describe situations accurately, discuss and negotiate fluently and fully convey personal feelings and opinions logically and appropriately.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts (≤900 characters) on required topics. Follow the structure of language materials, understand the content accurately, and get main points and information.Be able to speculate hidden information and understand related cultural context.Possess strong reading skills including skimming, guessing, associating and searching for information.Read at a speed of at least 180 characters per minute.
Writing Master 400 characters from the required handwriting list. Analyze Chinese characters’ structures expertly.Be able to use long and complex structures to write paragraphs and compose regular narrative, explanatory and argumentative texts within the allotted time. (≥600 characters) Know common writing styles and skills, as well as rhetoric.
Translation Possess general translation skills. Be able to translate content related to Band 6’s required topics completely and reconcile the complete content with Chinese language.Deal with related cultural context properly. Be able to perform fluent oral interpretation in informal settings, and correct yourself quickly.Be able to translate normal written narrative, explanatory and argumentative content accurately.

Advanced (Band 7-9)

Target:

Understand complicated materials on various topics in various formats, and have deep discussions. Be able to express oneself with appropriate language and discuss complex topics such as social life and academic studies logically and reasonably. Know how to apply common social strategies and have a good knowledge of Chinese culture as well as cross-cultural interaction skills.

Requirements:

  Syllables Characters Vocabulary Grammar Handwriting
Total 1110 3000 11092 572 1200
New + 202 + 1200 + 5636 + 148 + 500

Notes:

The newly added Bands 7 – 9 are for those aiming to get a degree from the University of China, professional Chinese language learners, those who work with Chinese professionally, or those who truly want to challenge themselves.

There is one HSK exam for Bands 7-9 of the advanced level. The student’s level will be determined by their score.

Band 7

Verbal communication skills:

Possess excellent listening, speaking, reading, writing skills, as well as elementary professional translation skills. Be able to have a complete standard, rich and appropriate conversation about broad and high-level topics.

Topics and tasks:

Social interactions, science and technology, literature, sports, mental health, major courses, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, communicate with participants at a formal conference or understand the learning materials of a major course and complete assignments.

Requirements:

Listening Understand the required topics and tasks from Band 7 (≤800 words) with a normal or somewhat fast speaking speed.Be able to understand the main facts and perspectives accurately and understand the inner structure and related social and cultural implications, even if there might be environmental disturbances.
Speaking Use the required syllables, vocabulary, and grammar from Band 7 to perform tasks and speak about various topics Be able to use complex structures in discourse to express personal opinions, discuss and negotiate fluently and logically. Speak in different styles based on the situation and use rhetorical methods to enhance expression. Possess accurate pronunciation, natural intonation, fluent expression and strong logic.Have a strong sense for cross-cultural interaction.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts in different writing styles on required topics.Read at a speed of at least 200 characters per minute.Have some understanding of Chinese ways of thinking and expression habits. Understand related culture content.Possess strong reading skills and be able to search information independently.
Writing Master the required handwriting list. Be able to write narrative, explanatory, argumentative and professional essays with clear perspective and logic using correct formats and appropriate expression.Know common writing styles and skills, as well as rhetoric.
Translation Possess elementary professional translation skills. Be able to translate content related to Band 7’s required topics completely and accurately.Fluently perform consecutive and accompanying interpretation on formal occasions.Be able to translate narrative, explanatory and argumentative essays accurately with correct formatting.

Band 8

Verbal communication skills:

Possess excellent listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as elementary professional translation skills. Be able to have a complete standard, rich and appropriate conversation on broad and high-level topics.

Topics and tasks:

Linguistics and language, politics and economics, legal issues, philosophy, history, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, have deep discussion on topics such as philosophy, regions and news, be able to express opinions, make inquiries and appeal when confronting dissension.

Listening Understand the required topics and tasks from Band 8, such as professional lectures and special news, (≤800 words) with a normal or somewhat fast speaking speed.Be able to summarize main points, understand details accurately, and understand the logical structure, even if there might be environmental disturbances and obstacles.
Speaking Use all required syllables, vocabulary and grammars from Band 8 to perform tasks and speak about various topicsPossess the ability to express oneself clearly in discourse and have flexible use of the language.Be able to have speeches and simultaneous debates to fully and appropriately express oneself. Possess accurate pronunciation, natural intonation, fluent expression and strong logic.Use proper rhetorical methods to enhance oral expression and have cross-cultural interaction skills.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts in different writing styles on the required topics.Read at a speed of at least 220 characters per minute.Generally master Chinese ways of thinking and expression habits. Understand related culture and thoughts accurately.Possess strong reading skills and be able to find language problems and logic defects in the articles.
Writing Master the required handwriting list. Be able to write narrative, explanatory, argumentative and professional essays with clear perspective and logic using correct formats and appropriate expressions.Use various idioms, slang and rhetoric correctly.
Translation Possess elementary professional translation skills. Be able to translate content related to Band 8’s required topics completely and accurately.Fluently perform consecutive interpretation of professional content on formal occasions and also adapt it to Chinese expression habits.Be able to translate long narrative, explanatory and argumentative essays accurately and follow the original version’s rhetoric and style.

Band 9

Verbal communication skills:

Possess excellent listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, as well as professional translation skills. Be able to have a standard, fluent and appropriate conversation on various topics and occasions with different skills.

Topics and tasks:

Academic research, policy and regulation, trade, international affairs, etc.

Be able to perform tasks related to the above topics. For instance, debate and negotiate with business partners in formal settings and be able to understand files related to policy, regulations and research reports, as well as make relevant remarks.

Listening Understand the materials on required topics from Band 9 (≤800 words) with a normal or somewhat fast speaking speed.Be able to analyze and speculate information, understand related social and cultural implications correctly.
Speaking Be able to use all required syllables, vocabulary and grammars from Band 9 toto perform tasks and speak about various topics. Possess the ability to express oneself clearly in discourse and have flexible use of the language.Be able to accurately and appropriately express oneself fully. Possess accurate pronunciation, natural intonation, rich expression and strong logic. Use rhetorical methods flexibly to enhance oral expression and have strong cross-cultural interaction skills.
Reading Be able to read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary. Understand texts in different writing styles on required topics Read at a speed of at least 240 characters per minute.Generally master Chinese ways of thinking and expression habits. Understand related culture and thoughts accurately.Be able to use various reading skills comprehensively.
Writing Master the required handwriting list. Be able to write a degree thesis and different forms of literature with clear perspective and logic using correct formats and appropriate expressions.Use various structures and rhetoric correctly. Make the writing rich and beautiful.
Translation Possess professional translation skills. Be able to translate content related to Band 9’s required topics completely and accurately.Fluently perform simultaneous interpretation of professional content on formal occasions.Be able to translate articles and different forms of literature accurately and follow the original version’s rhetoric and style.

Related Posts: All about the New HSK 7-9 Test

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This Post Has 21 Comments

    1. Hahaha I was right to start learning characters and stroke order right from the start, many people kept saying stroker order was useless and here we are now

  1. Why, in a rapidly, increasingly digitized world, would they focus on written characters?? ONE HUNDRED for Elementary Band 1?? Forget it! The ONLY thing I have to write on any regular basis is my address. That’s 11 characters. Ok, plus my name: 14. Honestly…

    I guess I won’t be taking the HSK until they come their senses. :-/

    1. Dear Tanya, the character is the heart of the language itself. It’s what makes Chinese unique as a language. If you don’t like it, nobody forces you to learn it. But you cannot ask to ruin the beauty of it just because you’re a lazy person.

      1. Hi Fabrice,
        You really see the beauty of the language and I could see your respect for the language. I totally agree on you as a native speaker. Wish you good luck of your study.

      2. Complete rubbish from a practical standpoint. You can admire the character’s stroke order all you want, but this is (as evidenced above) just going to deter people from taking the test. This is a language test ffs, it is not a presentation of the beauty of a language. You do not need to admire a language to learn it, and the goal should be to get as many people to learn Chinese as possible.

    2. Tanya – Did you have to learn how to write in your native language? Do you think foreigners coming into your country should be able to write in the predominant language of that country? My guess- purely conjecture here – is that the answer to both questions is yes.

      You do not have to learn Mandarin nor do you have to take the HSKs. “Rapidly increasing digitized world” should not mean “rapidly increasing illiteracy”. It makes sense that they would expect people taking a standardized literacy test to actually BE literate in the language.

      1. Who said the HSK was an immigration test? It is a language test. People do not need to write by hand nowadays, rarely anyone does. China almost exclusively uses digital money, yet you cling to writing by hand which nobody needs to do anymore?

  2. thanks for the clear information.
    when will the new HSK replace the old one. I have plan to take HSK2 this July. probably the books and resources will change. when will the first new HSK test be released?

    1. For HSK 1-6, the current tests and classification will not change recently. The New HSK 3.0 HSK 1-6 will adjust accordingly in the future 3-5 years. Once all the changes are released officially, we will keep you updated immediately.

  3. The current HSK test offers an option to do the “handwriting” section digitally through a computer-based method. Will this also be allowed in HSK 3.0 or does it have to be handwritten?

  4. Like it wasn’t challenging enough to study Chinese before. Honestly this is very demotivating right now. Studying once or twice a week won’t even reach anywhere in the first place and the progress of working towards hsk 5 feels belittled if soon that will be called working for hsk 3 again. In combination with traveling to China being impossible for God knows how long, honestly, I’m giving up on the language. Doesn’t even seem a pity anymore cause hsk 3 out of 9 doesn’t seem like anything to speak of anyway. Sorry for the rant but frustration is big.

  5. Is it official yet? Please indicate the source of this information. Chinesetest.cn does not have any such indication

  6. From my understanding, the HSK 2.0 version was mainly adapted from European’s CEFR standards, with 6 levels (A1-C2) whilst this HSK 3.0 version uses the American’s ACTFL standards, with 9 levels (Novice-Intermediate-Advanced 3 bands with Low Middle High 3 levels in each bands). The HSK test centre (2017) conducted a study of contrasting these two standards (https://www.sohu.com/a/123567579_589047), and after years of study, decided to use a more nuanced way to descript the true performance of Chinese learners.

    ACTFL_____________ CEFR
    Novice (Low/Mid/High) A1
    Intermediate (Low/Mid/High) A2
    Advanced Low B1
    Advanced Mid B2
    Advanced High C1

  7. I am happy that the new HSK is in line with the practice of learning other languages as spelled out in the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
    The former HSK 2.0 was too optimistic and claimed that learners would reach the level of “Threshold” with an active vocabulary of much less than 1400 words. This has now been increased to 2245 words, which corresponds to international standards.
    I learned many languages in my life, I am seventy now.
    When you reach the level of “threshold”, you have a certain degree of fluency which allows you to travel in the country of your study choice and communicate in a pleasant way. I recommend this threshold to everyone, it corresponds to band 3 in the new HSK 3.0. It will take me a few more years to reach this level in Chinese. Given the importance of China in the world, and the size of the country, it is worthwhile to pursue this objective.

  8. The new rules are insane! The level was difficulty used to increase even in previous type of exam, as I considered real tests from past, they were harder each year. I got more than 190 points in 2019 in hsk 6 and it was the hardest exam I ever did! How are they going to consider translation part? F.e., I’m not a native in English and not sure if someone did hsk 6 in my country, except of me. If it’s in English or other “big” languages only, the difficulty will increase even more for people speaking different languages. How many Chinese would be able to make it? Not too many, I guess, because of translation, so even the native Chinese teaching their own language for years won’t be able to pass ithe higher levels without strong English skills. What’s the point?

  9. good thing they changed it- because the previous HSK 5 was like b1 European maximum. Dunno how smb can spend years on HSK 1-4 when it’s literally just 1200 words- only nuff for very primitive communication.

    But it’s super stupid they made handwriting mandatory. The last time I took a pen in my hand was 8 years ago. Reached advanced level in Japanese without actually learning how to write. i just don’t need it.

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