Master Chinese with HSK
Your complete guide to Chinese proficiency levels
What Is the HSK System?
HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is a standardized Chinese proficiency framework. It defines clear levels (HSK 1–9) that describe what learners can understand and do in real life, study, and work.
- University
AdmissionRequired by many universities for entry to degree programs taught in Chinese - Professional
RecognitionRecognized by employers as a reliable indicator of Chinese proficiency - Learning
MilestonesProvides structured goals and benchmarks to track progress - Global
StandardsAligned with internationally accepted proficiency standards
HSK Components
The HSK 3.0 (2021) system assesses Chinese proficiency across four core communication skills, progressively tested across 9 levels — from Elementary (HSK 1–3) through Intermediate (HSK 4–6) to Advanced (HSK 7–9). Each level sets specific benchmarks for syllables, characters, vocabulary, and grammar. Translation is additionally tested from HSK 4 onward.
Listening
Comprehension of spoken Chinese, from short dialogues to extended lectures
- Short dialogues at lower levels progressing to monologues and broadcast-style recordings
- Tone discrimination, understanding speaker intent, and inferring implied meaning
- Speech speed increases from slow and clear (HSK 1–2) to natural pace at higher levels
Reading
Comprehension of written Chinese, from signs and notes to academic texts
- Pinyin support removed from HSK 3, requiring full character recognition
- Text types progress from signs and short notes to essays and academic articles
- Reading speed targets rise from 80 characters/min (HSK 1) to 240+ (HSK 7–9)
Writing
Character handwriting and composition, from individual characters to essays
- Correct stroke order and character structure tested from HSK 1 onward
- Handwriting speed benchmarks: 10 chars/min (HSK 1) to 20 chars/min (HSK 3)
- Compositions from 100+ characters (HSK 2) to 600+ at advanced levels
Speaking
Oral proficiency from basic pronunciation to impromptu speech and debate
- Pronunciation accuracy, correct tones, and natural intonation patterns
- Tasks progress from read-aloud and Q&A to picture descriptions and discussions
- Advanced levels require debate, persuasive argument, and cross-cultural communication
Master HSK with Dot Languages
Our platform supports steady HSK progression with proven methods and real‑world practice
Master Listening
The HSK tests listening comprehension with increasingly complex native audio, requiring tone discrimination and understanding of speaker intent. Train with native audio designed to build real listening stamina.
- checkNative narration on every article with adjustable speed
- checkAudio‑first vocabulary exercises for tone recognition
- checkComprehension questions after each HSK graded article
- checkAI adapts difficulty to target your weak areas
Master Reading
From HSK 3 onward, pinyin support is removed entirely — you must recognize characters on sight. Build that fluency with thousands of level‑aligned texts and integrated learning tools.
- check10,000+ articles and dialogues aligned to HSK levels
- checkTap any word for instant definition with pinyin and tones
- checkSentence creation, recognition, and comprehension exercises
- checkFresh content added daily with adaptive difficulty
Master Writing
The HSK requires handwriting with correct stroke order and timed character recall — the hardest skill for digital‑age learners. Practice until it becomes muscle memory.
- checkStroke‑by‑stroke character writing with guided feedback
- checkSentence writing exercises for vocabulary and structure
- checkVocabulary exercises that reinforce character recall in context
- checkSpaced repetition strengthens long‑term character recall
Master Speaking
The HSK Speaking (HSKK) exam is assesses both pronunciation accuracy and fluency. Build confidence with structured speaking practice at every level.
- checkWord‑level speaking exercises for precise pronunciation
- checkSentence‑level speaking practice for natural fluency
- checkSpaced repetition targets words you find hardest to say
- checkProgress from isolated sounds to connected speech
Complete HSK Learning Ecosystem
Progress Analytics
Track your HSK readiness with detailed metrics and performance insights.
Custom HSK Materials
Practice with your own textbooks and study materials using our AI exercises.
Level‑Aligned Exercises
Practice with exercises aligned to HSK levels and difficulty.
HSK Proficiency Levels
Choose your current level and see what you can achieve at each stage
Basic phrases and simple exchanges
What You Can Do
- checkUnderstand and use basic greetings for different occasions
- checkRecognize common signs and simple menu items
- checkAsk and answer simple questions about personal information
Sample Vocabulary
Short social conversations on everyday topics
What You Can Do
- checkOrder food in restaurants and share preferences
- checkHandle everyday shopping and short transactions
- checkRead and fill out simple personal forms
Sample Vocabulary
Common communication in daily-life situations
What You Can Do
- checkHold casual conversations with native speakers at a moderate pace
- checkRead menus, signs, and simple notices independently
- checkShare plans and send formal invitations in writing
Sample Vocabulary
Paragraph-level expression on familiar topics
What You Can Do
- checkDescribe events and express opinions on everyday topics
- checkRead news headlines and short articles
- checkWrite short structured texts such as ads and simple reports
Sample Vocabulary
Detailed expression on complex subjects
What You Can Do
- checkGive presentations and express detailed personal opinions
- checkWrite reports and formal correspondence
- checkFollow Chinese movies and TV with reasonable comprehension
Sample Vocabulary
Fluent discussion with nuance and precision
What You Can Do
- checkParticipate in formal debates and business negotiations
- checkDiscuss cross-cultural differences in depth
- checkRead literature and express yourself with nuance and precision
Sample Vocabulary
Near-native mastery for professional and academic use
What You Can Do
- checkPerform professional translation and interpretation
- checkWrite and critique academic papers
- checkCommunicate with near-native fluency across all domains
Sample Vocabulary
Ready to accelerate your HSK journey?
Join thousands of learners who use Dot Languages to progress through the HSK system.
Get started now