HSK levels show how well you know Chinese — and Chinese universities use them to decide whether you can join a Chinese-taught programme. Since July 2026, HSK has moved to a new system of "three stages, nine levels" instead of the previous six. Here is what each level means, how many words the new syllabus requires, and which HSK level you need for a bachelor's or master's. If you don't speak Chinese yet, start with How to Apply to China Without Knowing Chinese.
Key facts • HSK is the international Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers, run by Chinese Testing International (CTI); its syllabus is published by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC). • The new HSK syllabus was published in November 2025 and took effect in July 2026: 9 levels in three stages. • Under the new syllabus, HSK 4 requires 2,000 words, HSK 5 — 3,600 and HSK 6 — 5,400. • Chinese-taught bachelor's programmes usually require HSK 4–5; master's programmes HSK 4–6. • For admission, your certificate usually needs to be no more than two years old. |
What is HSK?
HSK (汉语水平考试, Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is an international standardised test of Chinese for non-native speakers, organised by Chinese Testing International (CTI). According to the official HSK website, HSK scores are required for international students applying for admission, graduation and scholarships in China, and they also help with jobs and work visas.
The exam tests your ability to use Chinese in daily, academic and professional life. Speaking is assessed in a separate exam, HSKK.
You can take HSK in three formats: paper-based, internet-based at a test centre, or internet-based at home.
The new HSK: three stages and nine levels
Since July 2026 the new HSK syllabus applies. The exam has moved from six levels to a "three stages, nine levels" framework covering elementary, intermediate and advanced proficiency, as described on the official HSK website.
What changed:
- 9 levels instead of 6. Advanced levels 7–9 are taken as one exam.
- Five skills. Listening, speaking, reading, writing and — at advanced levels — translation.
- A five-part syllabus: tasks, topics, vocabulary, grammar and Chinese characters.
- Updated question types, number of questions, test duration and listening speed.
The HSK syllabus was published by CLEC in November 2025 and took effect in July 2026. You can try the new format in the official demo test.
HSK levels and vocabulary
We counted the words required at each level from the vocabulary list in the official HSK syllabus. Words are cumulative: HSK 4 includes all vocabulary from levels 1–3.
Level | Stage | Words (cumulative) | Roughly means |
HSK 1 | Elementary | 300 | Simple phrases about yourself, family, shopping |
HSK 2 | Elementary | 500 | Short everyday dialogues |
HSK 3 | Elementary | 1,000 | Everyday and travel communication |
HSK 4 | Intermediate | 2,000 | Fluent conversation on familiar topics; the minimum for many bachelor's programmes |
HSK 5 | Intermediate | 3,600 | Reading newspapers, understanding films; the level for strong universities |
HSK 6 | Intermediate | 5,400 | Fluent understanding of spoken and written Chinese; the level for top master's programmes |
HSK 7–9 | Advanced | 11,000 | Academic and professional Chinese, including translation |
Source: HSK syllabus, CLEC
The new syllabus requires noticeably more words at the lower levels — HSK 1 alone now needs 300 words. If you studied from older textbooks, check against the new list.
Which HSK level do you need for university in China?
Each university and programme sets its own HSK requirement. Here are real requirements from university admission guides:
University and programme | HSK requirement |
Harbin Institute of Technology, Chinese-taught bachelor's and master's | HSK 4, 210+ |
Sun Yat-sen University, bachelor's | HSK 5, 180+ |
Peking University, Chinese-taught master's in Computer Science | HSK 6, 200+, writing at least 65 |
Source: Harbin Institute of Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, Peking University
A general guide based on these universities: HSK 4 for a bachelor's, HSK 4–5 for a master's, HSK 5–6 for top universities and demanding programmes. Chinese Language and Literature programmes sometimes don't require a separate certificate, and if your previous studies were in Chinese, some universities accept a confirmation of that instead of HSK.
Important Your HSK certificate usually needs to be recent — Harbin Institute of Technology, for example, accepts scores valid for two years. Don't take the exam too early. |
How long does it take to reach HSK 4?
It depends on how intensively you study and your experience with languages. Use vocabulary as a benchmark: HSK 4 requires 2,000 words plus the matching grammar. Immersion is fastest — for example, a one-year language programme in China; see Language Year in China.
For bachelor's programmes, keep in mind that many universities also require the CSCA exam, including professional Chinese — see The CSCA Exam in 2027.
How to take HSK
1. Choose the level your university requires, with a margin.
2. Find a test centre and date on the official HSK website, or choose the at-home online format.
3. Register and pay the exam fee.
4. Try the demo test so you don't lose time on the exam format.
5. Get your results and certificate — you can verify them on the same website.
Frequently asked questions
How many HSK levels are there?
Since July 2026 there are nine levels in three stages: elementary (1–3), intermediate (4–6) and advanced (7–9). Levels 7–9 are taken as one exam.
Which HSK level do I need for a Chinese university?
Usually HSK 4 for a Chinese-taught bachelor's, HSK 4–5 for a master's and HSK 5–6 for top universities. The exact level and score are in each university's admission guide.
How many words do I need for HSK 4?
Under the new syllabus, 2,000 words in total, including the vocabulary of levels 1–3.
Do I need HSK for English-taught programmes?
No — English-taught programmes require IELTS or TOEFL. Everyday Chinese is still useful for life in China.
How long is an HSK certificate valid?
For admission, universities usually accept results no older than two years.
Can I take HSK online?
Yes — HSK is available as an internet-based test at home, an internet-based test at a test centre, or on paper.
Quick action plan
1. Check which HSK level your university and programme require.
2. Assess your level with the new HSK demo test.
3. If you don't speak Chinese yet, consider a language year in China.
4. Take HSK no earlier than two years before you apply.
5. For a bachelor's, prepare for CSCA in parallel.
We'll help you reach the right HSK level and get in GE Agency will match universities to your Chinese level, advise which HSK to take and when, and — if you're starting from zero — find a language programme in China. Book a consultation. |
Information checked on 4 October 2026. University HSK requirements change — always check the admission guide of your chosen university.
Useful articles about studying in China
Top Universities in China for International Students: How to Choose
Bachelor’s Degree in China After High School: 2027 Admission
Master’s Degree in China for International Students: Requirements and Admission
Scholarships to Study in China: Chinese Government Scholarship and University Grants