Which HSK level should you study?
HSK Vocabulary & Stroke Order Database
Complete data for HSK 2.0 (current exam) and HSK 3.0 (new standard)
What is HSK?
The HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) is the standardized Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers. It assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities across multiple levels, from beginner (Level 1) to advanced (Level 6 in HSK 2.0, Level 9 in HSK 3.0).
Current Exam Standard (HSK 2.0)
For most regular exams before July 2026
New HSK 3.0 Standard
Includes 9 levels with expanded vocabulary. For trial exams from January 2026 for advanced learners.
Explore HSK 3.0HSK 2.0 vs 3.0: Which Should I Study?
| Feature | HSK 2.0 (Current Standard) | HSK 3.0 (Future Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Levels | 6 levels | 9 levels (3 stages) |
| Total Vocabulary | 5,000 words | 11,092 words |
| Level 1 Vocabulary | 150 words | 500 words |
| Target Audience | Students taking regular exams | Trial exam takers / Level 7-9 / Advanced learners |
| Exam Period | Now - June 2026 | From July 2026 |
Recommendations
- •If you plan to take the exam before July 2026, use HSK 2.0
- •If you registered for the January 2026 trial exam, use HSK 3.0
- •If you're an advanced learner or need Level 7-9, use HSK 3.0
Other Ways to Find Characters
Beyond HSK levels, you can explore Chinese characters by pronunciation or structure:
Browse by Pinyin
Find characters by their pronunciation. Perfect when you know how a character sounds but want to see all characters with that sound.
Explore 400+ Pinyin SyllablesBrowse by Radical
Search by character components (radicals). Ideal for dictionary-style lookup when you can see the character but don't know pronunciation.
Explore 214 Kangxi RadicalsStart Your HSK Learning Journey
Choose the version that fits your needs and start learning stroke order, pinyin, and vocabulary