Computer-based or paper-based HSK?
Both formats test the same level with the same certificate; the differences are practical.
Unofficial study site · every figure links to an official source
| Computer-based (at a centre) | Paper-based | |
|---|---|---|
| Official deadline | 10 days before (13 Dec 2026: 3 Dec) | 27 days before (13 Dec 2026: 16 Nov) |
| Results, centre examples | Graz: 16 days (HSKK 20). Korea: 28 Dec for 13 Dec. Quebec: 28 Dec, speaking 4 Jan. | Korea: 15 Jan for 13 Dec. Paderborn and Pau: 13 Jan. NSU: 15 Jan. |
| Where you sit it | At the centre, not at home (Graz says so explicitly) | At the centre; bring a 2B pencil and eraser |
| Seats | Limited at some centres: Graz asks you to confirm a seat before paying; Torino limits computer seats | Centres can still cap seats per level (e.g. Hanoi: 30 for HSK 6) |
| HSK 7–9 (2027) | Computer-based only, deadline 14 days before | Not offered |
Which centres offer which (examples)
- Computer only: Malaysia HSK IBT centre (Kota Damansara), Assumption University (Thailand), Quebec and Manitoba (13 Dec 2026), Universidad de los Andes (Bogotá).
- Paper only: Glasgow, MSLU Moscow (no computer test), NSU Novosibirsk, Utadeo Bogotá.
- Both: Graz (paper deadline 16 Nov, computer 3 Dec); Torino (paper for HSK 1–4, computer for HSK 5–6); Korea (IBT and PBT).
How to choose
- Missed the paper deadline? The computer test at a nearby centre may still be open for the same date.
- Need the score fast (an application deadline)? Computer-based results come out roughly two weeks earlier.
- Type Chinese slowly? On paper you write characters by hand; on computer you type them. Practise in the format you book.
At-home online test vs centre test → · All deadlines →
Frequently asked
Is the computer-based HSK certificate the same as the paper one?
Yes: same level, same score report. The differences are the deadline, how fast results come, and typing vs handwriting.
When is the computer-based deadline for 13 Dec 2026?
Officially 3 Dec 2026 (paper: 16 Nov). Centres may close earlier.
Our HSK 4 papers are original and follow the HSK 3.0 Level 4 written structure (70 items). Instant mock score, section drills, a mistake bank and an 8-item daily set. Not past papers, never recalled papers.
Keep reading
Official sources
- CTI notice: HSK 3.0 officially launched worldwide on 13 Dec 2026 (dates and registration deadlines)
- Chinese Test Service (CTI): 2027 test calendar for HSK, HSK speaking, HSK 7–9, YCT and BCT
- Konfuzius-Institut Graz: internet-based HSK at the centre
- Konfuzius-Institut Graz: HSKK speaking test
- HSK Korea Office (HSK한국사무국): registration schedule
- Confucius Institute in Quebec: HSK 3.0 registration and payment (13 Dec 2026 and after)
- Konfuzius-Institut Paderborn: exams, deadlines and fees
- Institut Confucius de Pau Pyrénées: HSK, HSKK, BCT and YCT sessions and fees
- Confucius Institute at Novosibirsk State University: HSK
- Istituto Confucio Torino: exam sessions and formats
- Malaysia HSK Test Official Website: internet-based test registration and fees
- Confucius Institute, Assumption University: HSK 3.0 computer-based test, 13 Dec 2026
- Confucius Institute, Universidad de los Andes: official Chinese exams and 2026 dates
- Confucius Institute at MSLU (Moscow): HSK and HSKK
- Confucius Institute at the University of Glasgow: Chinese Proficiency Test
- Hanoi National University of Education: HSK and HSKK notice, December 2026
Checked 2026-11-13. HSK Sprint is an independent study service, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC / 语合中心), Chinese Testing International or the official HSK. All papers and audio are original. Always confirm details with chinesetest.cn and your test centre.