HSK Passing Scores 2025: Official Scoring System for Levels 1-6

Expert Verification: All scoring information verified against official 2025 HSK guidelines from Chinese Testing International (CTI).

2025 OFFICIAL GUIDE

HSK Passing Scores for All Levels

Quick Answer: To pass, all HSK levels require a score of at least 60% of the total. No separate section minimums are required.

HSK Level Passing Score Total Score Percentage
HSK Level 1 120 200 60%
HSK Level 2 120 200 60%
HSK Level 3 180 300 60%
HSK Level 4 180 300 60%
HSK Level 5 180 300 60%
HSK Level 6 180 300 60%

📌 Key Facts:

  • Total score matters: You don’t need to pass each section (listening, reading, writing) separately – the combined total determines whether you pass.
  • Results timeline: Check scores 2 weeks after the online test or 1 month after the paper-based test.
  • Certificate validity: Your HSK certificate is valid for 2 years from the test date.

💡 Want to calculate if your practice test score would pass? After understanding how the scoring system works below, try our HSK Score Calculator to evaluate your performance.

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About This Guide

The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is the official Chinese Proficiency Test recognized worldwide for assessing Chinese language skills of non-native speakers. This comprehensive guide explains the official scoring system, provides detailed passing score requirements for all six levels, and helps you understand how to check your results online. All information is based on the latest 2025 exam standards.

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Official Source: Information translated from the Chinese Test International official documentation. Thai version also available here.

Understanding the HSK Scoring System

The HSK scoring system is structured into three key components that work together to evaluate your Chinese proficiency:

1

Objective Scoring

Listening and reading sections are scored automatically

2

Subjective Scoring

Trained examiners evaluate the writing section

3

Total Score

The sum of all sections determines pass/fail

1

Objective Scoring (Listening & Reading)

How it works: Each question is worth 1 point if answered correctly, or 0 points if incorrect. Raw scores are then converted to standardized scores and adjusted to the final HSK score using a proprietary formula.

Example: HSK Level 2

Listening Section
  • 35 questions total
  • ≈2.86 points each
  • Maximum: 100 points
Reading Section
  • 25 questions total
  • 4 points each
  • Maximum: 100 points
Combined: Listening (100) + Reading (100) = 200 points total
💡 Self-assessment tip: To estimate your score, divide your correct answers by total questions, then multiply by the section’s maximum points.
2

Subjective Scoring (Writing)

How it works: Writing tasks are evaluated by certified examiners based on grammar accuracy, vocabulary richness, and content coherence. Scores are then standardized to ensure fairness across all test sessions.

3

Total Score Calculation

The total score is the sum of all section scores (listening + reading + writing). This total score determines whether you pass or fail the exam. Remember: you don’t need to achieve the passing percentage in each section – only the total matters.

🧮 Ready to Calculate Your Score?

Now that you understand how HSK scoring works, use our calculator below to see if your practice test results would pass. Simply enter the number of correct answers for each section, and we’ll instantly show your estimated score and whether it meets the passing threshold.

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Try Our HSK Score Calculator

Enter your raw scores from practice tests to see if you’re on track to pass the HSK exam.

🧮 HSK Score Calculator

Calculate your HSK score and check if you pass

Select HSK Level:

💡 Note: This calculator provides an estimate based on official HSK scoring guidelines. Actual scores may vary.

📚 Want to maximize your writing score? Understanding the detailed scoring criteria below will help you know exactly what examiners look for in each writing task.

Detailed HSK Writing Scoring Criteria

1

Listening and Reading Scoring

  • Objective scoring: Based solely on correct answers
  • Point system: 1 point for correct answers, 0 points for incorrect answers
  • Final scores: Raw scores are converted to standardized scores
2

Writing Section Scoring Details

Each HSK level includes different writing tasks with specific scoring criteria. Understanding these criteria helps you focus your preparation effectively.

1. Completion Tasks (Levels 3, 4, and 5)

0 Points: Blank answers or completely irrelevant content
Low Scores: Missing required words, incorrect word order, or 3+ character mistakes
High Scores: Correct usage of all words with no grammar or vocabulary mistakes

2. Writing Chinese Characters (Level 3)

0 Points: Blank or completely unrelated characters
Mid Scores: Mistakes that resemble the correct character
High Scores: Fully correct characters with proper stroke order

3. Sentence Writing Based on Images (Level 4)

0 Points: Content unrelated to the image or provided words
Low Scores: Off-topic content or sentences containing 3+ errors
High Scores: Accurate grammar and vocabulary with rich, relevant content

4. Essay Writing (Level 5)

Low Scores: Logical errors, significant grammar mistakes, or insufficient length
High Scores: Fully coherent, error-free essays with clear logical flow and appropriate length

5. Summarize Task (Level 6)

Low Scores: Irrelevant content or incomplete sentences
High Scores: Clear structure, flawless grammar, and concise, accurate summary

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Study Tip: For HSK 3 writing practice, focus on correct character writing and sentence construction with appropriate word order. The writing section typically accounts for 10 out of 80 total questions.

How to Check Your HSK Results

  1. Results Availability:
    • Online exams: Results available 2 weeks after the test date
    • Paper-based exams: Results available 1 month after the test date
  2. Where to Check Results:
  3. Score Validity:
    • HSK results are valid for two years from the date of the exam
    • Universities and employers typically require scores within this validity period

Online HSK Result Date Checker

📺 Prefer visual learning? Watch our video guide below for a step-by-step explanation of the HSK scoring system and how to check your results.

HSK Scoring System: Key Takeaways

Understanding the HSK scoring system is essential for effective exam preparation. Focus on your weaker sections, practice regularly with authentic materials, and familiarize yourself with the scoring criteria to maximize your chances of success. Remember that the total score determines whether you pass – you don’t need to achieve the passing percentage in each individual section separately.

🎯 Ready to Start Preparing?

Check out our comprehensive HSK preparation guide and explore our free character learning tools to boost your study efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I check my HSK score?

You can check your HSK score online through the official website approximately 2 weeks after online tests or 1 month after paper-based tests. Visit the official HSK score check page and input your admission ticket number and name.

2. What is the HSK passing score for each level?

The passing scores for all HSK levels are:

  • HSK Level 1: 120/200 (60%)
  • HSK Level 2: 120/200 (60%)
  • HSK Level 3: 180/300 (60%)
  • HSK Level 4: 180/300 (60%)
  • HSK Level 5: 180/300 (60%)
  • HSK Level 6: 180/300 (60%)

All levels consistently require 60% of the total score to pass.

3. What is the HSK scoring system?

The HSK scoring system consists of:

  • Listening and Reading: Objective questions scored based on correct answers (1 point each)
  • Writing: Subjective tasks evaluated for grammar, vocabulary, and structure
  • Total Score: The sum of all sections, standardized to ensure fairness

4. How can I receive my HSK score report?

For candidates in China, request an official score report through the service website after results are published. Candidates outside China will receive reports at their test centers within 1-2 months. Learn more on the HSK Score Report page.

5. What is the difference between HSK Level 5 and HSK Level 6?

HSK Level 5: Designed for advanced learners who can understand newspapers, films, and write essays. Suitable for university applications.

HSK Level 6: Focuses on summarizing complex texts and expressing ideas fluently. It represents the highest level of Chinese proficiency and is often required for graduate programs.

6. How long is my HSK score valid?

HSK scores are valid for two years from the test date. Ensure you use your results for applications or certifications within this validity period.

7. What is the HSK Level 1 pass mark?

The HSK Level 1 pass mark is 120 out of 200 points, which equals 60%. This level tests basic listening and reading skills suitable for beginners.

8. Can I retake the HSK to improve my score?

Yes, you can retake the HSK as many times as you like. The highest score within the valid period (two years) is typically used for university admissions or job applications. Many students retake the test to achieve their target score.

9. Do I need to pass each section separately?

No. HSK uses the total score for pass/fail determination. You don’t need to achieve 60% in each section (listening, reading, writing). If you score 80% in listening and reading but only 40% in writing, and your total reaches 60%, you still pass. This allows you to compensate for weaker sections with stronger ones.

10. What’s a good HSK score for university admission?

Most Chinese universities require HSK 4 (180+) for undergraduate programs and HSK 5 (180+) for graduate programs. Top universities may require HSK 5 with higher scores (200+) or HSK 6. Check your target university’s specific requirements, as they vary by institution and program.


🎧 Prefer Audio Learning?

Listen to our podcast version of this guide while commuting, exercising, or relaxing. Perfect for auditory learners!

🎧

Official HSK Scoring System and Passing Scores Explained – 2025 Podcast

HSK Scoring System Podcast Cover

About the Author

Margherita Liu - HSK Expert

Margherita Liu

Senior Chinese Language Instructor & HSK Examiner

20+ Years Experience
HSK Certified
5000+ Students

Margherita has been teaching Chinese language and preparing students for HSK examinations since 2005.
As a certified HSK examiner, she has personally evaluated thousands of HSK writing sections and understands
exactly what examiners look for. Her students consistently achieve passing rates 35% higher than the national average.

 

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