The New HSK Exam System 😲 (from July 1st 2021)
New HSK Exam // The Only Guide You Need (Including Full New HSK Word List)
WHAT? There’s a new HSK Exam?
You are probably a tad confused by the title of this blog, so let us rephrase.
THE CURRENT HSK EXAM SYSTEM IS GOING TO CHANGE on July 1st 2021!
I’m sure there are a lot questions on your lips… will I have to take the test again, is my current qualification still valid…?
In short, we are still not 100% sure but things are starting to become clearer as we move through 2021.
It’s the facts we’ll be covering here in this one-stop article. Feel free to check back as we’ll be constantly updating this throughout 2021.
🙋🏽♀️ Want to take our brand New 50 Question HSK 7-9 Quiz? 🙋🏽♀️
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New HSK: Introduction to HSK
New HSK: What Do We Know So Far?
New HSK: Why the Change?
New HSK: What Does This Mean For You?
FREE DOWNLOAD: Full New HSK Word List
FREE HSK VOCAB TESTS: Take Yours Here
Passing the HSK – Two BIG Success Stories
New HSK: Tips
New HSK: Your FAQ’s Answered
FREE BONUS: Take Our NEW HSK Quiz
NEW HSK – Introduction to the HSK
HSK or Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (汉语水平考试) came about in 1992 as a proficiency exam for Mandarin Chinese.
The exams are organised by Hanban (汉办). Hanban are a part of the Chinese education ministry, who are also in charge of the Confucius Institutes (孔子学院).
HSK is currently split into 6 levels covering 150 to 5000 words.
All the exams contain listening, reading and writing components – with HSK 1 and 2 not requiring the writing element.
We still do not know what the actual situation will be, but we do know that the New HSK Exam will contain more words, more levels and it will be no doubt harder – as the following below will illustrate.
PS – You can find the official HSK website here.
NEW HSK – What Do We Know So Far?
Announcement 🔈
“HSK is about to be reformed. In 2020, the Chinese Proficiency Standards will usher in a new change: a hybrid paradigm of ‘Three Stages and Nine Levels’ characterised by integration and all-in-one”
The new “Three stages, nine levels” evaluation system of the HSK
Just because we’re super nice to you all, here’s that table translated for those interested…
| Level | Level Number | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advanced | Levels 7, 8 & 9 | For levels 7-9 there is no evaluation quota as of yet. |
| Intermediate | Levels 4, 5 & 6 | From levels 1-6, each has a corresponding threshold for the number of syllables, characters, words and grammatical structures the test taker should be able to comprehend and use. |
| Beginner | Levels 1, 2 & 3 | From levels 1-6, each has a corresponding threshold for the number of syllables, characters, words and grammatical structures the test taker should be able to comprehend and use. |
Announced in May 2020, released via the official HSK official Twitter Account, the exam will change from six to nine levels!
In order to mark the examinees’ current progress, the nine levels will be sub-divided into three stages.
For advanced learners to acquire native-level proficiency certifications, the highest classification will be be further divided into three distinct levels.
It has been revealed that the New HSK syllabus will begin on July 1st 2021.
We also know the New HSK consists of these four elements:
- Syllables – 1,110 in total
- Chinese characters – 3,000 in total
- Vocabulary – Total is 11,092
- Grammar – Total of 572 items
However, it is worth knowing the following also:
There will be no changes to the HSK Exams in 2021.
In fact, new versions of HSK Exams for 1-6 will most likely be released in 2023-24 and the rollout is expected to take a couple of years so the process remains a lengthy one.
On the contrary, the HSK 7-9 examinations will be officially launched in March 2022.
Three Stages and Nine Levels 🤔
Officially referred to as HSK 3.0, the new HSK exam structure will be divided into three stages and nine levels with:
- Beginner at Level 1-3
- Intermediate at Level 4-6
- Advanced at Level 7-9
According to the Chinese Testing International Centre in Barcelona, the advanced levels (7-9) are for foreign students who want to specialize in Chinese language and literature, and other majors such as Sinology.
The Advanced HSK exam (Level 7-9) is scheduled to be released in the first half of 2021.
Whether it be the lower level or highest grade, you must learn more words so it will certainly be a harder test!
| Level | Difficulty | Number Of Words | Difference From Old HSK |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | Beginner | 500 | +350 |
| HSK 2 | Beginner | 1272 | +972 |
| HSK 3 | Beginner | 2245 | +1645 |
| HSK 4 | Intermediate | 3245 | +2045 |
| HSK 5 | Intermediate | 4316 | +1816 |
| HSK 6 | Intermediate | 5456 | +456 |
| HSK 7 | Advanced | 11,092 (TBC) | TBC |
| HSK 8 | Advanced | 11,092 (TBC) | TBC |
| HSK 9 | Advanced | 11,092 (TBC) | TBC |
Here’s a side-by-side look at the Old HSK vs New HSK to give you a clear indication that the NEW HSK will be certainly more difficult.
| Level | New HSK | Current HSK |
|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | 500 | 150 |
| HSK 2 | 1,272 | 300 |
| HSK 3 | 2,245 | 600 |
| HSK 4 | 3,245 | 1,200 |
| HSK 5 | 4,316 | 2,500 |
| HSK 6 | 5,456 | 5,000 |
| HSK 7 | 11,092 (TBC) | – |
| HSK 8 | 11,092 (TBC) | – |
| HSK 9 | 11,092 (TBC) | – |
Words and Vocabulary List 🧠
In a PDF published by the International Chinese Education (世界汉语教学 shìjiè hànyǔ jiàoxué), they further outline the new proficiency standards for all the levels.
The difficulty has certainly increased!
Focusing on the vocabulary column (词汇: cíhuì) a.k.a. the fifth column, we can see that just for level 1 the threshold has increased.
Instead of previously needing to learn 150 words for HSK 1, this has now increased to 500.
For HSK 6, students will now be required to learn 5,456 words and for HSK 9 students will be expected to know over 11,000 words!
Therefore, by increasing the threshold students will be pushed harder to learn more words.
You can find a full downloadable wordlist for the New HSK here.
NEW HSK – Why the Change?
There is no definite answer to this question.
But here’s some possible reasons:
- To make the exam harder
- As more people are studying the language, the old classification could no longer meet the requirements of the new situation.
- This new classification is more precise and further categorizes students language ability.
- To align with the European Framework
- One major problem with the current HSK test is it does not directly correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CETR)
- For example, HSK 6 was nowhere near the “almost-native” C2 level and so on.
- Thus, by adjusting the test to better reflect the CEFR system this should help give the HSK improved weighting and caliber on the international stage.
NEW HSK – What Does This Mean For You?
There has been no word so far on what this means for graduation requirements for international students in China.
HSK did however confirm the following: “The scores of candidates participating in HSK 1-6 levels are still valid, and the validity of the certificates already obtained remains unchanged”
Regarding text books HSK went on to say:
“The textbooks and courses compiled and developed according to HSK 1-6 levels can still be used. In the next 3-5 years, HSK 1-6 levels will be gradually adjusted according to the “Standards” and the actual conditions of Chinese learners in various countries.”
With the exam system changing, it is hard to go into details what this exactly means for you.
Previously, a level between HSK 4-6 was sufficient for students who wanted to pursue graduate or higher-level degree in Chinese.
As soon as more details are announced, we will update you.
If you have any more questions feel free to comment down below and we will try our best to answer them.
FREE DOWNLOAD – Full New HSK Word List
In keeping with the news above, the Ministry of Education in China have released this rather large (260 pages to be precise) PDF which is the full word list for each level of the HSK.
Whilst the wordlist shows all the words included in the new HSK curriculum, it still doesn’t show the breakdown from HSK 7 onwards.
These details will be released nearer the time presumably, but for now, here is the full document if you wish to download it.
PLEASE NOTE – it is a rather large file so may take some time to download, unless you have particularly fast internet!
FREE HSK VOCAB TESTS – Take Yours Here
As of right now, the HSK remains 6 levels and that means you can test yourself right here with our super handy quizzes.
We have two quizzes for every HSK level:
- Quick Fire 30 Questions – we randomly select 30 words from each HSK level to see how well you know your vocabulary.
- Full Vocab Tests – fancy buckling up and going all out? Our full vocabulary quizzes cover more words and will give you a clearer idea of how well you know your HSK level. (up to 500 words for the highest level HSK 6).
Results are instant and also sent to your email address, also showing where you slipped up!
PASSING THE HSK – Two BIG Success Stories
We take huge pride in our student pass rate of 95%. It not only shows our teachers are the best in the business but that all our students are so driven to succeed.
Motivation is a big part of language learning and we wanted to share two stories of students who boast this in abundance.
Language learning isn’t a talent, it’s a will to win.
Anthea and Emma, from France and Germany respectively, gave their all in their year with LTl and came out with HSK 6 certificates!
Here is an insight into their stories.
- Anthea came to China for 12 months with zero knowledge and a year later, went home to Germany with a HSK 6 certificate!
- Emma had planned to study with LTL in Chengde but sadly that all changed in 2020. Rather than put her plan to bed, she knuckled down for 12 months of online study and came away with an amazing HSK 6 pass!
Who knows, maybe they’ll go a step further and go full steam ahead for the HSK 7, 8 and 9!
NEW HSK – Tips
Our top tip to you is not to worry!
The new exam system is good for beginners and definitely a challenge for any advanced learner.
Although your current level will be most likely downgraded due to this new system, the good thing is that you can still aim for HSK 6.
Unless you intend to specialize in Sinology or otherwise, this level is probably enough to get you where you want to be!
FUN FACT – Did you know LTL students have a 95% pass rate when taking the HSK Exam. We genuinely know how to get you passing with flying colours.
If you want to take the perfect preparation course for your HSK Exam, drop us a message.
New HSK – FAQ’s
When was the New HSK announced?
May 21st 2020 on the Official HSK Twitter account.
What are the main differences between the old and the new HSK?
The two main differences are as follows:
The old/current HSK has 6 levels and the new HSK has 9.
The old/current HSK tests up to 5,000 words, whereas the new HSK requires you to know over 11,000
Will the HSK Exams change in 2021?
There will be no changes to the HSK Exams in 2021.
In fact, new versions of HSK Exams for 1-6 will most likely be released in 2023-24 and the rollout is expected to take a couple of years so the process remains a lengthy one.
On the contrary, the HSK 7-9 examinations will be officially launched in March 2022.
Will the HSK textbooks change in 2021?
The textbooks will change, but not for another 3-5 years yet.
HSK confirmed this with the following statement:
“The textbooks and courses compiled and developed according to HSK 1-6 levels can still be used. In the next 3-5 years, HSK 1-6 levels will be gradually adjusted according to the “Standards” and the actual conditions of Chinese learners in various countries.”
Will my current HSK Exam results remain valid?
Yes and we have a direct quote from HSK to also back this up, which states:
“The currently implemented HSK 1-6 levels will not be adjusted in the near future, and the test effectiveness, test content, reference vocabulary and test format will remain unchanged and will continue to be implemented stably. The scores of candidates participating in HSK 1-6 levels are still valid, and the validity of the certificates already obtained remains unchanged. “
Therefore there is no need to worry if you need these to apply for a Chinese university or job for example.
When will the NEW HSK officially be launched?
It has been revealed that the New HSK will begin on July 1st 2021.
How many words to pass the highest (new) HSK level?
The highest level of HSK you can pass with the new system is HSK 9 and this requires knowing a huge 11,092 words, more than double the current highest level (HSK6).
How is the New HSK broken down exactly?
The New HSK consists of these four elements:
Syllables – 1,110 in total
Chinese characters – 3,000 in total
Vocabulary – Total is 11,092
Grammar – Total of 572 items
Will I have to buy new HSK textbooks?
Not for the near future.
HSK stated the current textbooks will remain in place for another 3-5 years.
How can I improve my Chinese while waiting for further announcements?
We would you recommend you do this while you wait!
Check out our online immersion and free HSK quizzes to expand your Chinese.
Also be sure to check our blogs on how to self-learn Chinese or you could always book classes with LTL.
How do you say HSK in Chinese?
汉语水平考试 (hànyǔ shuǐpíng kǎoshì)
Will I be notified if further news on this is announced?
Of course.
Keep checking this blog for further updates on the New HSK and subscribe to our newsletter.
BONUS | NEW HSK QUIZ
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PS – DID YOU KNOW you can study the HSK with us online here!
16 comments
Great article! Do you know when more updates on this will be available?
Not yet, we will update you as soon as we get more information.
LTL
Noooo, I already have HSK 6 :(
No worry Emma, if anything it's good you've already got it because it's about to become a whole lot harder!
We will keep you posted.
LTL
So in order to get a job that includes chinese language, would you have to be able to pass HSK 9?? I am level 3 and speaking most of what I say in chinese with my teacher, so by hsk 6, I could completely be fluent enough to communicate for a basic job. I dont mind that the levels are changing, but what does that mean for the tests?
Hi CW - no you don't need to pass the 9 to get a job that includes Chinese. In fact in the current structure some companies accept 5, 4 or even HSK 3 depending on how much Chinese is involved so there's no need to stress about that.
The HSK 9 will ultimately be the most advanced Chinese exam you can take and it's certainly not one you'd need to pass to work in China.
Hope that helps
LTL
Ok so I'm an MBBS student and earlier we has hsk 4 as the compulsory exam , 1200 words along with our already vast syllabus was already a task and now 3000+ characters! #_#. Will they also change the levels required!? Because we were asked for just hsk4 in order to be eligible for the degree , I don't think they change the required levels midway of the session for a batch !
Hi Muskan - thanks for your comment :)
No you are right, we'd be very surprised if they changed the required levels. It makes no sense at all. I wouldn't worry, ultimately if you know 1,200 words, whether it's classed at HSK2 or HSK 6... your ability is still the same.
I think what the new format is doing gives a clearer idea of someone's ability, simply because Chinese is just so in depth. You could quite easily get a HSK 6 student who scores 90% in the exam... which you'd assume is fully fluent, but actually their speaking might only be to HSK3/4 level... this is very common especially with students who don't come to China or speak it.
Don't worry, and keep studying hard :)
LTL
hello
it seems you have published the dates of hsk exams in 2021; do you know if these exams in the current format, or is it possible the current format will run alongside the updated test for a while?
Thanks!
Noah
We do not know I'm afraid Noah. HSK haven't given any clarity on this so the best advice we can give is to keep planning for the standard format... any news after that we will publish straight away.
Thanks for your question :)
LTL
I was preparing for HSK 6 and wanted to take it on December but then I thought maybe I should give it more time so I’d get a better grade, then this whole new hsk thing came out :( Do u think I should better take the exam before 2021 (the current format) or should I just keep studying and wait for the new format?
Hi Skye, thanks for your comment.
I would keep preparing for, and take the HSK 6 as normal. As of now we don't really know how it's going to change but for sure the new HSK 6 will be much harder. You may as well get it locked in now before it gets harder, but really, don't stress or rush.
As of now (November 2020) we believe the changes won't be happening until around May 2021 anyway.
Hope this helps
LTL
Hi, Can i register to take the HSK through LTL without taking a class? All of the local Confucius Institutes in my area seem to be defunct.
Thanks!
Hi Nathan,
We only provide HSK prep courses but this info here might help.
Hope it helps
any clues about visa points and new hsk ?
Sadly not yet Thomas, but as soon as we discover we'll update the article and send out an email to our subscribers immediately so you are the first to find out!