HSK 4 FAQ
The most common questions about the exam — answered clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which HSK level do I need for university in China?
Most Chinese universities require HSK 4 (undergraduate) or HSK 5 (postgraduate programs in Chinese).
How long does HSK 4 preparation take?
Starting from A2: 300–600 hours of study. The official HSK 4 vocabulary list has ~1,200 words.
Is HSK paper-based or online?
Both options are available. Internet-Based Test (IBT) is increasingly common and results are faster.
Does HSK expire?
No — HSK certificates have no expiry date.
What's the HSK 3.0 change?
New 9-level system introduced 2021 by Hanban. Old 6-level system remains valid and is still widely used.