Updated January 2025
HSK Exam Guide: Levels, Preparation & Online Mock Tests
5,000+ students achieved their HSK goals at Mandarin Zone School since 2008. Expert native teachers, personalized study plans, flexible online & Beijing classes.
HSK 3.1 Standard Explained: What Changed and What It Means for You (2026)
2025-2026 HSK Course Pricing
Choose the learning style that fits your schedule. All courses include: free level evaluation, personalized study plan, HSK practice tests, course materials, and lifetime access to learning resources.
Group Courses (20 hours/week)
Small class sizes (max 6 students). Perfect for structured learning with peer interaction.
| Duration | Total Hours | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | 40 hours | ¥6,200 | — |
| 4 weeks | 80 hours | ¥11,700 | ¥700 |
| 8 weeks | 160 hours | ¥20,700 | ¥2,900 (12%) |
| Additional week | 20 hours | ¥2,400 | — |
Private 1-on-1 Courses (20 hours/week)
100% personalized attention. Maximum flexibility in scheduling.
| Duration | Total Hours | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | 40 hours | ¥12,000 | — |
| 4 weeks | 80 hours | ¥22,600 | ¥1,400 (6%) |
| 8 weeks | 160 hours | ¥39,900 | ¥7,700 (16%) |
| Additional week | 20 hours | ¥4,700 | — |
Private Intensive (30 hours/week)
Ultra-intensive 1-on-1 for urgent deadlines. Full immersion with accelerated progress.
| Duration | Total Hours | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | 60 hours | ¥18,000 | — |
| 4 weeks | 120 hours | ¥33,900 | ¥2,100 (6%) |
| 8 weeks | 240 hours | ¥59,850 | ¥7,350 (11%) |
| Additional week | 30 hours | ¥7,050 | — |
What’s Included in All Courses
- Free 30-minute level evaluation
- Personalized study plan for your target HSK level
- Official HSK practice tests with timing
- All course materials (textbooks, workbooks, audio)
- Flexible scheduling: morning, afternoon, or evening
- Online (Zoom) or in-person (Beijing campus)
- Lifetime access to digital resources
- No hidden fees
How Long Does HSK Preparation Take?
Timeline varies based on your current level, target level, and study intensity:
| Target | Vocabulary | From Zero | From Previous Level | Course Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSK 1 | 150 words | 40-60 hours | — | 2-4 weeks |
| HSK 2 | 300 words | 80-120 hours | 40-60 hours | 4-6 weeks |
| HSK 3 | 600 words | 180-240 hours | 80-120 hours | 12-16 weeks |
| HSK 4 | 1,200 words | 300-360 hours | 120-180 hours | 16-20 weeks |
| HSK 5 | 2,500 words | 600-800 hours | 240-360 hours | 24-30 weeks |
| HSK 6 | 5,000+ words | 1000-1200 hours | 360-480 hours | 30-40 weeks |
Not sure where you stand? Our free 30-minute evaluation will pinpoint your current level and create a personalized timeline to reach your HSK goal.
Based on your timeline, we recommend either an intensive course for rapid preparation or part-time classes for steady progress.
Why Students Choose Mandarin Zone
Since 2008, we’ve helped over 5,000 students achieve their HSK goals with a 94% first-time pass rate.
Data-Driven Study Plans
Your free evaluation identifies exact weak points. Every study plan is customized based on your current level, target exam date, skill gaps, and learning style.
Expert Native Teachers
All teachers are native Mandarin speakers with specialized HSK training. They understand the exact exam format, common mistakes, and test-taking strategies.
Real HSK Practice Tests
Full-length mock tests under real exam conditions with detailed performance analysis. Track improvement week by week and build confidence.
Flexible Learning Options
Study online via Zoom from anywhere, or at our Beijing campus. Choose morning, afternoon, or evening classes. Intensive or relaxed pace.
5 Common HSK Preparation Mistakes
Based on 17 years of experience, these mistakes most often prevent students from passing:
1. Starting Too Close to the Exam Date
Problem: Students register before they’re ready, hoping to cram. Solution: Begin preparation 3-4 months before your target date. Our evaluation helps set realistic timelines.
2. Memorizing Vocabulary Without Context
Problem: Flashcard apps teach isolated words, but HSK tests usage in sentences. Solution: We teach vocabulary through dialogues, passages, and real situations with example sentences and usage notes.
3. Ignoring Listening Practice
Problem: Listening is 40-50% of HSK 4-6 exams, where most students lose points. Solution: Every class includes intensive listening practice with native recordings at exam-level difficulty.
4. Skipping Mock Tests
Problem: Students know the material but struggle with time management on test day. Solution: We require at least 3 full-length practice tests under timed conditions with detailed review.
5. Self-Study Without Expert Feedback
Problem: You can’t identify your own blind spots. Solution: Your teacher monitors progress continuously, correcting mistakes and identifying weak areas you didn’t know existed.
HSK Levels Explained
The HSK (汉语水平考试) is China’s standardized Chinese proficiency test with 6 levels aligned with the Common European Framework:
- HSK 1 (150 words, A1): Basic greetings, simple phrases. For absolute beginners.
- HSK 2 (300 words, A2): Daily conversation on familiar topics. Good for short-term stays in China.
- HSK 3 (600 words, B1): Conversational fluency for daily situations and travel.
- HSK 4 (1,200 words, B2): Required for most Chinese university undergrad programs. Professional communication level.
- HSK 5 (2,500 words, C1): Required for graduate programs and professional work. True fluency.
- HSK 6 (5,000+ words, C2): Near-native proficiency. For PhD programs and senior positions.
Which HSK Level Do You Need?
- Chinese University (Undergrad): HSK 4 minimum, HSK 5 for top schools
- Graduate/PhD: HSK 5-6
- Work in China: HSK 4-5 for most positions
- Government Scholarship: HSK 4-5 depending on program
What Happens in Your First Class
1. Level Evaluation (30 min)
We assess all four skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. This diagnostic identifies your exact starting point.
2. Study Plan (15 min)
Based on results, we create your custom roadmap: current level, target timeline, weekly plan, and milestone schedule.
3. Sample Lesson (20 min)
Experience our teaching style with a mini-lesson targeting one of your weak areas. Interactive practice, not just lecture.
4. Q&A (15 min)
Ask about schedule, pricing, or methods. No pressure—only enroll if you’re 100% comfortable.
Student Success Stories
“She gave me a lot of tips to succeed”
After 6 years in China, I studied 4 months with Teacher Yang. Very patient, quickly identified my weak points, taught practical idioms essential for the exam.
— Laurence, France | HSK 5
“I thought I couldn’t go further, but reached Level 6”
After HSK 5, I thought I couldn’t continue. My wonderful teacher was so professional and patient, making everything easier even when I was tired.
— Mario, Italy | HSK 6
“Best value for money”
I studied for a year. The teachers are very professional, combining strong skills with the ability to make students feel relaxed and motivated.
— Stephen, Australia | HSK 5
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does HSK preparation take?
HSK 1-2: 8-12 weeks. HSK 3: 12-16 weeks. HSK 4: 16-20 weeks. HSK 5-6: 24-40 weeks. Your free evaluation gives an accurate timeline based on your starting level.
What is the HSK pass rate at Mandarin Zone?
We maintain a 94% first-time pass rate since 2008. Over 500 students have passed through our programs.
Do you offer online courses?
Yes! All courses are available online via Zoom or in-person in Beijing. Same quality, live instruction from native teachers, real-time feedback.
Can I start anytime?
Yes—rolling enrollment for both group and private courses. New group cohorts begin weekly. Private courses start when you choose.
What if I’m not ready after my course?
If mock tests show you’re not ready, we recommend additional weeks at discounted rates. We’d rather you wait and pass on the first try.
Do you help with exam registration?
Yes! We guide you through the entire process including choosing test dates and completing registration. View 2026 HSK test dates.
Get Your Free HSK Level Evaluation
30-minute assessment • Personalized study plan • No obligation
Available Online (Zoom) or In-Person (Beijing)
Instant messaging
Visit Our Beijing Campus
Mandarin Zone School
Room 1208, Tongguang Building, 12 Nongzhanguan Nanli, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100125
Metro: Tuanjiehu Station (Line 3 & 10)
Hours: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM, Sat 10AM-4PM
Why Choose Mandarin Zone?
- 17 years of excellence since 2008
- 5,000+ successful students from 40+ countries
- 94% first-time pass rate
- Expert native teachers with HSK specialization
- Personalized study plans
- Flexible online & offline options
- Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
Start your HSK preparation today. Your Chinese fluency goal is closer than you think.
Last updated: January 2025 | 2025-2026 HSK course prices, test dates, and student statistics.