HSK comparisons
HSK vs HSKK, and the old HSK 2.0 vs the new HSK 3.0 — side by side.
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Quick answer
The HSK tests Listening, Reading and Writing; the HSKK is a separate speaking test. HSK 3.0 is the new 2021 standard — 9 levels in 3 bands with much larger vocabulary lists and an advanced 7–9 band — replacing the older 6-level HSK 2.0, while old certificates stay valid. HSK Ace builds its practice around HSK 3.0. Try a free mock exam.
HSK vs HSKK
| HSK | HSKK | |
|---|---|---|
| Skills tested | Listening · Reading · Writing | Speaking only |
| Format | Multiple choice + writing, on paper or computer | You record spoken answers |
| Levels | 6 levels (1–6); HSK 3.0 adds 7–9 | 3 levels: Beginner · Intermediate · Advanced |
| Scoring | HSK 1–2: out of 200 (120 to pass); HSK 3–6: out of 300 (180) | Out of 100 (60 to pass) |
| Duration | ~40–140 min by level | ~20–24 min |
| Used for | Proving overall proficiency (study, work, visas) | Proving spoken ability |
| Taken together? | Usually separate; many scholarships need both | Often paired with an HSK level |
HSK 2.0 vs HSK 3.0
| HSK 2.0 | HSK 3.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Older standard | New 2021 standard |
| Levels | 6 levels | 9 levels in 3 bands (1–3, 4–6, 7–9) |
| Vocabulary at level 1 | ~150 words | 500 words |
| Vocabulary at level 6 | ~5,000 words | 5,456 words (7–9: 11,092) |
| Characters | Not strictly fixed per level | Fixed per level (300 → 3,000) |
| Model | Mainly vocabulary + grammar | Three-dimensional: words · characters · grammar |
| Top band | HSK 6 | HSK 7–9 (academic) |
| Speaking | Separate HSKK | Built into the 7–9 paper (HSKK for 1–6) |
| Old certificates | — | Still valid; both systems run in parallel |
HSK Ace builds its practice around the new HSK 3.0 standard.
Comparison FAQ
Should I take the HSK or the HSKK?
It depends on your goal. The HSK certifies overall ability (listening, reading, writing) for study and work; the HSKK certifies speaking. Many scholarships require both — for example HSK 4 together with HSKK Intermediate.
Are HSK 2.0 certificates still valid?
Yes. During the transition both systems run in parallel and existing HSK 2.0 certificates remain valid. Most schools and employers accept results from the past two years regardless of system.
Is HSK 3.0 harder than HSK 2.0?
At the same level number the vocabulary load is noticeably larger (HSK 1 jumps from ~150 to 500 words) and character requirements are stricter, so HSK 3.0 is generally more demanding. It also adds the advanced 7–9 band above the old HSK 6.