HSK 3.0 vs HSK 2.0, level by level
Left: figures from the current (2.0) level pages on chinesetest.cn. Right: the official HSK 3.0 sample papers and syllabus.
Unofficial study site · every figure links to an official source
| Level | HSK 2.0 | HSK 3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 40 items · about 40 min · 200 points, pass 120 | 40 items · ~40 min · 300 words cumulative |
| 2 | 200 points, pass 120 | 60 items · ~60 min · 500 words cumulative |
| 3 | 80 items · about 90 min · 300 points, pass 180 | 70 items · ~83 min · 1,000 words cumulative |
| 4 | 100 items · about 105 min · 300 points, pass 180 | 70 items · ~85 min · 2,000 words cumulative |
| 5 | 100 items · about 125 min · 300 points (CTI’s page lists no single pass mark) | 72 items · ~110 min · 3,600 words cumulative |
| 6 | 101 items · about 140 min · 300 points (CTI’s page lists no single pass mark) | 82 items · ~125 min · 5,400 words cumulative |
| 7–9 | (new in the 3.0 system) | 91 items · ~200 min · 11,000 words cumulative |
The 2.0 Level 2 item count was not shown on the page we read, so only the scores are listed.
Does my HSK 2.0 score still count?
The official candidate information says a score report is valid as proof of proficiency for two years from the test date. Whether a school or employer accepts it, and at what level, is their decision.
Is old HSK 4 equal to new HSK 4?
As of 2026-11-13 we found no official level or score conversion between 2.0 and 3.0 on chinesetest.cn, so we do not convert. Check the source of any “conversion table” you see. By vocabulary alone, new Level 4 expects 2,000 words cumulatively, so levels do not map one to one.
Should I sit 2.0 or 3.0?
Per the official notice relayed by test centres, 17 October and 7 November used 2.0 and 3.0 starts on 13 December. The 2.0 sittings for 2026 have now passed, so your next sitting is 3.0.
Frequently asked
Is there an official HSK 2.0 to 3.0 conversion table?
As of 2026-11-13 we have not found one on chinesetest.cn.
Is new HSK 4 harder than old HSK 4?
It has fewer items (70 vs 100) but 25 minutes of writing ending in an 80-character text, and 2,000 cumulative words. Practise in the 3.0 structure to find out where you stand.
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
- What changes in HSK 3.0
- HSK 3.0 word and character counts per level
- 13 Dec 2026: dates, registration deadlines, results
- Scores and pass marks: what is confirmed
Official sources
- Chinese Test Service Website: current HSK Level 4 page (2.0 format)
- Official HSK 3.0 sample paper pack (written + speaking papers, answers, audio), ZIP
- Official new HSK syllabus (CLEC, published 2025-11, in force 2026-07), PDF
- Chinese Test Service Website: information for candidates (registration, refunds, results)
- CTI notice: HSK 3.0 officially launched worldwide on 13 Dec 2026 (dates and registration deadlines)
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.