HSK 3.0 Sample Tests: PDFs, Audio & Answer Keys
If you're planning to take the HSK, here you’ll find official HSK 3.0 sample papers, audio recordings and answer keys, organized by level.
HSK stands for Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (汉语水平考试), the Chinese Proficiency Test. HSK 3.0 is its updated version, and recently it was announced that it would be launched worldwide on December 13, 2026.
These sample tests are a useful way to explore the question types, practice listening and see what you might need to work on before taking an exam.
HSK 2.0 vs HSK 3.0: What changes at each level?
One of the clearest differences is the vocabulary requirement. Here’s how the old and new levels compare:
Level | HSK 2.0 vocabulary | HSK 3.0 vocabulary | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
HSK 1 | 150 words | 300 words | +150 |
HSK 2 | 300 words | 500 words | +200 |
HSK 3 | 600 words | 1,000 words | +400 |
HSK 4 | 1,200 words | 2,000 words | +800 |
HSK 5 | 2,500 words | 3,600 words | +1,100 |
HSK 6 | 5,000 words | 5,400 words | +400 |
HSK 7–9 | Not part of HSK 2.0 | 11,000 words | Combined advanced test |
These totals are cumulative: the HSK 3 requirement includes vocabulary from Levels 1 and 2, rather than adding another 1,000 words.
Want to build your Chinese beyond the test?
If you’re still building your foundation, my Beginner Chinese Course takes you step by step through the Chinese you need for everyday conversations, with a strong focus on speaking, pronunciation and tones.
Download all HSK 3.0 sample tests
Download the complete official HSK 3.0 sample-test bundle (ZIP)
This is the sample-question bundle that you can also find on the official ChineseTest website. Download and unzip it to access the files. I just renamed the files from Chinese to English, so it's easier for you to find what you need.
If you only need a particular level, use the individual links below.
Download sample tests by level
Level | Sample paper | Answer key | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
HSK 1 | |||
HSK 2 | |||
HSK 3 | |||
HSK 4 | |||
HSK 5 | |||
HSK 6 | |||
HSK 7–9 |
HSK 7–9 uses a combined test, with the result determining the level awarded. Its additional speaking audio is available here.
Download speaking sample tests
There are also separate speaking sample papers and audio recordings for Levels 3–6.
Speaking level | Sample paper | Audio |
|---|---|---|
HSK 3 Speaking | ||
HSK 4 Speaking | ||
HSK 5 Speaking | ||
HSK 6 Speaking |
Try the official HSK 3.0 computer-test demo
If you’re considering a computer-based exam, you can also explore the official demo:
Try the HSK 3.0 computer-test demo
Still at the beginning of your Chinese journey?
My Beginner Chinese Course will help you build a strong foundation and become comfortable using Chinese in everyday conversations.
