HSK past papers: what is official, and what to use for HSK 3.0
Searching “HSK past papers PDF” mostly turns up HSK 2.0 material in the old format. For the 13 December 2026 test and after, here is what actually matches the new paper.
Unofficial study site · every figure links to an official source
Official and free
- HSK 3.0 sample pack. One written sample per level (1–6 and 7–9) with answers and audio, plus speaking papers for Levels 3–6. Download from the HSK 3.0 entry on chinesetest.cn. What is in it →
- Try-the-test system. An official online system to practise the computer-based interface.
Old-format material (HSK 2.0)
Official 2.0 sample papers and published “past paper” books follow the old structure — for example 100 items at Level 4 instead of 70, and no 80-character essay. They are still useful for listening and reading practice and vocabulary in context, but do not use them to rehearse timing or writing for HSK 3.0.
| Level 4 | HSK 2.0 | HSK 3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Items | 100 | 70 |
| Time | ~105 min | ~85 min |
| Writing | 15 items, 25 min | 5 picture sentences + 80-character text, 25 min |
Avoid “recalled” papers
Papers reconstructed from memory by candidates are sold every season. Recording or copying items breaks the test rules, the content is often wrong, and sharing it can put the people involved at risk of having results cancelled. They also do not teach you anything an original paper in the same format would not.
Getting enough practice
- Save the official sample for a timed baseline about two weeks before the test.
- Use original papers in the 3.0 structure for repeat practice — our HSK 4 mocks are written from scratch to the 70-item format, with audio.
- Review by task type: file each mistake under its part (e.g. reading part 1 distractors) and drill that part.
Frequently asked
Where can I find HSK 3.0 past papers?
HSK 3.0 has just launched. The official material is one free sample paper per level (with audio and answers) and an online try-the-test system.
Can I use HSK 2.0 past papers for HSK 3.0?
For listening, reading and vocabulary, yes; but the item counts, timing and writing tasks differ, so they are poor practice for 3.0 timing and writing.
Are HSK Sprint mocks real past papers?
No. Every item is original and written to the 3.0 structure; we never use past or recalled papers.
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
- Chinese Test Service Website HSK 3.0 entry page (notice, syllabus, sample pack, try-the-test)
- Official HSK 3.0 sample paper pack (written + speaking papers, answers, audio), ZIP
- Official HSK 3.0 try-the-test system (international entry)
- Chinese Test Service Website: current HSK Level 4 page (2.0 format)
- Chinese Test Service Website: information for candidates (registration, refunds, results)
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.