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The HSK path, one level at a time.

HSK is the standard Chinese proficiency exam, in six levels. Even if you never sit it, it’s a useful map: tell Zhihuzhe where you are and everything is pitched just above it.

  1. HSK 1

    150 words in total

    HSKK Beginner

    Greet people, say who you are, count, tell the time and ask simple questions.

    你叫什么名字？

    What's your name?

    Teachers
    Xiao Lin, Master Wang
    Role-play scenes
    Asking for directions

  2. HSK 2

    300 words in total

    HSKK Beginner

    Shop, order food, ask the way and manage short everyday exchanges.

    这个多少钱？

    How much is this?

    Teachers
    Xiao Lin, Master Wang
    Role-play scenes
    Ordering at a restaurant, Taking a taxi

  3. HSK 3

    600 words in total

    HSKK Intermediate

    Get through travel, work and study routines, and tell a short story about your day.

    我昨天加班到很晚。

    I worked late last night.

    Teachers
    Xiao Lin, Master Wang
    Role-play scenes
    Haggling at a market, Seeing a doctor

  4. HSK 4

    1,200 words in total

    HSKK Intermediate

    Talk with native speakers on a wide range of topics and read simple articles.

    我觉得这个办法值得试一试。

    I think this approach is worth a try.

    Teachers
    Xiao Lin, Master Wang, Manager Li
    Role-play scenes
    Renting a flat, A job interview

  5. HSK 5

    2,500 words in total

    HSKK Advanced

    Read newspapers, follow films and give a full talk without notes.

    这次合作对双方都有好处。

    This partnership benefits both sides.

    Teachers
    Master Wang, Manager Li
    Role-play scenes
    Negotiating a contract

  6. HSK 6

    5,000 words in total

    HSKK Advanced

    Understand nearly everything you read and hear, and say exactly what you mean.

    他的话虽然委婉，但意思很明确。

    He put it tactfully, but his meaning was clear.

    Teachers
    Master Wang, Manager Li

Preparing for the speaking test?

HSKK is the spoken companion to HSK, at three levels. Mock speaking tests in the app use the same check as everything else, so you go into the room knowing how your tones, sounds and fluency hold up under a timer.

Master Wang runs the practice tests and goes through your answers afterwards.

HSKK levels and the HSK levels they line up with
HSKK levelLines up withWhat to practice
BeginnerHSK 1–2Clear tones on short, everyday sentences.
IntermediateHSK 3–4Answering and describing at length without long pauses.
AdvancedHSK 5–6Speaking fluently and precisely on unfamiliar topics.

Not sure of your level? Chat with Xiao Lin for a few minutes and ask her.

Find my level