The HSK (汉语水平考试) is the official Chinese proficiency test. Find out what each level means — and discover where you are right now.
Marina Chinese follows 16 progressive levels that map onto the 6 official HSK exam bands. Start wherever you are.
Every level builds on the last. Here's exactly what you can do when you complete each one.
Levels 1–4 · ~500 words · The foundation. You'll go from zero to handling real everyday situations in Chinese.
Levels 5–8 · ~500 words per pair · Conversational fluency across social and professional topics.
Levels 9–16 · 1,000+ words · Near-fluent and beyond. Academic, professional, and idiomatic Chinese.
A clear, step-by-step path. Most students reach conversational level (HSK 3) in 6–12 months of regular study.
Most Chinese universities require HSK 4 or 5 for international student admission.
HSK 4 is the common benchmark for professional roles. Business Chinese is a popular add-on at this level.
Equivalent to a native-educated speaker. Recognised worldwide by employers, universities, and governments.
Book a free trial class and we'll do a quick placement — then you'll know exactly which level to start at.
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