Official HSK Scoring System and Passing Scores Explained

Introduction to HSK Scoring

The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is the official Chinese Proficiency Test recognized worldwide for assessing the Chinese language skills of non-native speakers. If you’re preparing for the HSK, understanding the scoring system and passing scores is essential to achieving success.

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AI Summary:

• •
  How the HSK scoring system works

  Understand the objective and subjective scoring methods used for each section

• •
  Passing scores required for all HSK levels

  Know exactly what score you need to aim for to pass each HSK level from 1 to 6

• •
  How to check your HSK results and improve

  Learn strategies for checking your results and enhancing your preparation

Original Article Source: Official HSK Passing Scores Explained
(Only Chinese Version)

We’ve translated and simplified the official scoring guidelines to help English-speaking students.

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Understanding the HSK Scoring System

The HSK scoring system is structured into three key parts:

1

Objective Scoring

Includes listening and reading sections

2

Subjective Scoring

Evaluates the writing section

3

Total Score

The sum of all section scores

1

Objective Scoring

• Listening and Reading: Each question is worth 1 point if answered correctly, or 0 points if incorrect.
• Scores are converted from raw scores into standardized scores, then further adjusted to the final HSK score.

2

Subjective Scoring

• Writing: Writing tasks are evaluated by examiners based on:
  • Grammar accuracy
  • Vocabulary richness
  • Content coherence
• Scores are converted to standardized scores to reflect the overall proficiency.

3

Total Score

• The total score is the sum of the scores from all sections (listening, reading, and writing).

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HSK Passing Scores for HSK 1 to HSK 6

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

Pro Tip: For the HSK 3 exam specifically, you’ll need to score at least 180 out of 300 to pass. This typically means getting at least 60% of the questions correct across all sections.

HSK Scoring System Explained

1

Listening and Reading Scoring

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

HSK Level 2 Example:

Listening Section

• 35 questions
• ≈2.86 points each
• Total: 100 points

Reading Section

• 25 questions
• 4 points each
• Total: 100 points

Combined Score: Listening (100) + Reading (100) = 200 points total

Self-assessment tip: Divide your correct answers by total questions, then multiply by the maximum score for that section.

2

Writing Section Scoring Details

Each HSK level includes different writing tasks with specific scoring criteria:

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

0 Points:	Blank answers or 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 unrelated characters
Mid Scores:	Mistakes resembling the correct character
High Scores:	Fully correct characters

3. Sentence Writing Based on Images (Level 4)

0 Points:	Unrelated to the image or provided words
Low Scores:	Content is off-topic or contains 3+ errors
High Scores:	Accurate grammar, vocabulary, and rich content

4. Essay Writing (Level 5)

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

5. Summarize Task (Level 6)

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

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.

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How to Check Your HSK Results

1. Results Availability:
   • • Online exams: Available two weeks after the test.
     • Paper-based exams: Available one month after the test.
2. Where to Check Results:
   • Check your HSK scores
   • Certificate verification
3. Score Validity:
   • HSK results are valid for two years from the date of the exam.

HSK Scoring System Conclusion

Preparing for the HSK requires a solid understanding of the scoring system. By focusing on weak areas, practicing regularly, and learning the structure, you can achieve your target score. Start your preparation today and take one step closer to mastering Chinese!

FAQs

1. How do I check my HSK score?

You can check your HSK score online through the official website approximately two weeks after the online test or one month after the paper-based test. Simply visit Check HSK Scores and input your admission ticket number and name.

2. What is the HSK passing score for each level(level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4, level 5, level 6)?

The passing scores for HSK levels are as follows:

• HSK Level 1: 120/200
• HSK Level 2: 120/200
• HSK Level 3: 180/300
• HSK Level 4: 180/300
• HSK Level 5: 180/300
• HSK Level 6: 180/300

For more details, refer to our scoring breakdown.

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.
• Scores are standardized to ensure fairness. Your total score is the sum of all sections.

4. How can I receive my HSK score report?

For candidates in China, you can request an official score report through the service website after results are published. Candidates outside China will receive their 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, it requires understanding newspapers, films, and writing essays.
• HSK Level 6: Focuses on summarizing complex texts and expressing ideas fluently. It is the highest level of proficiency.

6. How long is my HSK score valid?

HSK scores are valid for two years from the test date. Make sure to use your results for applications or certifications within this period.

7. What is the HSK Level 1 pass mark?

The HSK Level 1 pass mark is 120 out of 200. This level tests basic listening and reading skills suitable for beginners.

8. Can I retake the HSK to improve my HSK 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 certification.

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