New HSK Outline with Words and Grammar

What is HSK?

HSK is short for 汉语(Hànyǔ, Chinese language)水平(水平shuǐpíng, level)考试(kǎoshì,test),which is a standardized Chinese language proficiency test that assesses the ability of non-native speakers to use Chinese in their daily lives, studies, and work. The old HSK included six levels. New HSK is a revised version of the previous HSK test that was introduced in July 2021. The new version has a more specific classification system, including both levels and bands, and is more rigorous than the previous version. The test is divided into three stages, namely Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced, with nine levels in total. The new HSK evaluates the candidate’s listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, as well as their ability to handwrite Chinese characters and translate. The newly added advanced level, from Band 7 to Band 9, is designed for learners who major in Chinese language and literature or sinologists.

How long does it take to prepare for the New HSK test?

The time required to prepare for the New HSK test depends on your current proficiency in Chinese and the level of the test you are planning to take. It might take about six months to prepare for the test if you are starting from scratch and aiming to pass the beginner level (HSK1-3). However, if you have already passed the beginner level and are aiming to pass the intermediate or advanced level, you might need to dedicate more time to practice and study.

It is important to note that the New HSK test is more rigorous than the previous version and requires a higher level of proficiency in Chinese. Therefore, it is recommended that you take the time to prepare thoroughly and practice regularly to achieve the desired results.

Five tips to prepare the New HSK

Set a study plan: Create a detailed study plan that includes daily study time, learning goals, and revision plans. A structured study plan can help you stay organized and focused.

Practice regularly: Dedicate time to practice your listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills regularly.To strengthen grammar point by point, practice sentences first and then paragraphs and articles.

Learn vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases regularly and revise them regularly. When you learn a new word, you have to figure out how to use it correctly in a sentence.

Improve your grammar: Focus on improving your grammar skills by practicing sentence structures, verb conjugation, and word order.

Take mock tests: About a month before the exam to practice a lot of simulation paper, not only to improve the correct rate of doing questions, but also to practice the speed of doing questions.

Referrence: All the contents from on this page are shared from the website of Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China

Becky Huang

Hey, my name is Becky. I'm a Chinese teacher certified by the Confucius Institute with 14 years of teaching experience. I wrote all these exercises based on the New HSK Standard (2021).