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HSK 1 → HSK 9

HSK 3.0 (syllabus released November 2025, piloting from 31 January 2026) expands the old 6-level system to 9 levels, grows the vocabulary from about 5,000 to 11,000+ words, adds the advanced HSK 7-9 band, and requires levels 3-6 to take a speaking test (HSKK). It assesses real communication rather than memorization.

HSK One covers both: the current HSK 2.0 exam (6 levels, still offered at most test centers) and the new HSK 3.0 standard (9 levels, piloting from January 2026). Our 9-level curriculum is built on the 3.0 framework, which is the stricter benchmark — studying to 3.0 prepares you for either format. HSK One is independently developed and not affiliated with CTI/Hanban.

The new HSK 3.0 syllabus was released in November 2025 and began piloting at selected test centers in 168 countries from 31 January 2026, but most centers still offer the current (2.0) format for levels 1-6. Studying to the 3.0 standard prepares you for either — it is the stricter benchmark.

The US State Department classifies Mandarin as a Category IV language, roughly 2,200 hours to professional fluency. But milestones come far sooner: HSK 1 in a few weeks, conversational HSK 3 in about a year of daily study, and working fluency in 2-3 years.

Ten minutes a day is enough to build the habit and reach HSK 1, but meaningful progress needs 30-60 minutes daily. Consistency beats cramming: short daily sessions with spaced repetition outperform long weekend marathons.

HSK 4 (180 points) is the minimum language requirement for undergraduate study in China. HSK scores are also used for university admission and course credit, Confucius Institute scholarships, work-visa points, and hiring by multinational employers. Scores are valid for two years.

Yes — 100% free forever. No credit card, no account, no energy limits. All 9 levels of lessons, vocabulary, flashcards, and mock tests are open from the moment you arrive.