HSK 3: Complete Guide to Level 3 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

What Is HSK 3?

HSK 3 (汉语水平考试) is the third level of the official Chinese proficiency test for non-native speakers. It aligns with CEFR A2 to B1 level.

• Understand 600 Chinese words

• Read and write short passages

• Handle daily communication with some fluency

HSK 3 is often required for:

• University programs in China

• Scholarships

• Work in Mandarin-speaking environments

HSK 3 Exam Structure (2025 Updated Version)

The HSK 3 exam has 80 questions across three sections: Listening, Reading, and Writing. The full test takes about 90 minutes, including time to fill in your personal information.

Scoring: 300 points total (listening, reading, writing and total).

Passing score: 180+

HSK 3 Vocabulary List (2025 Edition)

You will need to know 600 words, including all 300 from HSK 1 and 2. Here's what's new at HSK 3:

• More verbs & adjectives for nuanced expression (e.g. “打算” plan, “难过” sad)

• More abstract words (e.g. “关系” relationship)

• Measure words, time expressions, and question patterns

Grammar You Need to Know for HSK 3

Here are some essential grammar points for HSK 3:

• Complement of Degree 他高兴得跳起来了。He was so happy he jumped up.

• Potential Complement 我学不会这首歌。I can’t manage to learn this song.

• Passive Voice with 被 我的手机被我弟弟弄坏了。My phone was broken by my younger brother.

• Comparative Sentences 他比我更喜欢中文。He likes Chinese more than I do..

How to Prepare for HSK 3

Here’s your step-by-step plan to pass HSK 3 with confidence:

1. Review Old Levels

Make sure HSK 1 & 2 vocab and grammar are rock solid.

2. Learn with Official HSK 3 Vocabulary

Start with the official HSK 3 word list and focus on recognizing characters, understanding pinyin, and remembering meanings.

Here are effective ways to learn and review HSK 3 vocabulary:

• Use the interactive vocabulary tool on HSKMock.com to study by character, pinyin, and English meaning

• Practice with flashcards and spaced repetition systems (SRS) like Anki, Pleco, or Quizlet

• Create a personal vocabulary tracker — a notebook or digital log — to reinforce memory

• Listen to example sentences on apps like Du Chinese or The Chairman’s Bao to improve comprehension

• Label objects around your home in Chinese to build passive recognition throughout your day

For extra convenience, you can also download the full HSK 3 vocabulary list as a PDF and review it offline.

3. Practice Reading

Start reading graded readers (HSK 3 level), WeChat articles, or short dialogues.

4. Train Listening

Listen to ChinesePod, Slow Chinese, or watch HSK 3-level YouTube content.

5. Use Official HSK Mock Tests

Simulate real exam conditions with HSK 3 mock tests to check your level, improve timing, and build confidence before test day.

Final Tips for Passing HSK 3

• Prioritize the 300 official vocabulary words
  Focus on mastering all HSK 3 vocabulary, especially verbs like 会 (can), 要 (want), 让 (let), and common adverbs like 已经 (already), 还 (still), etc. Flashcards and spaced repetition apps like Anki or Quizlet can help.

• Drill key grammar patterns
  Practice essential structures like “虽然…但是… (although...but...)”, “因为…所以… (because...therefore...)”, and the correct word order in questions and time expressions (e.g., 他星期三去北京).

• Simulate full test conditions
  Take timed mock exams (listening + reading + writing) to get used to the pace. For writing, memorize fixed response formats to save time.

• Strengthen listening accuracy
  Listen daily to short dialogues at HSK 3 speed. Focus on understanding question words (谁, 什么, 哪儿, 几点) and listening for key info like numbers and time.

• Practice writing characters by hand
  If you're taking the paper test, be sure you can write all basic strokes clearly and remember how to form common characters without pinyin support.

❓Frequently Asked Questions About HSK 3

How hard is HSK 3?

It’s a moderate challenge. You need to master about 600 words and basic grammar. Most learners can reach HSK 3 in 6 to 12 months with consistent study.

Is HSK 3 enough for daily conversation?

Yes, especially for everyday topics like food, travel, shopping, and basic work situations.

Can I skip HSK 1 and 2 and go straight to HSK 3?

Yes, as long as you’ve covered the vocabulary and grammar from previous levels.

Where can I take the HSK 3 exam?

You can register on the official Chinese Test website and choose from test centers worldwide.

If you are in Shanghai or planning to take your HSK exam there, you can register at the  Wo Hui Mandarin Test Center,  an official testing site recognized by Chinese Testing International. As part of the team behind  HSK Mock, Wo Hui Mandarin is committed to providing a smooth and supportive testing experience.

Register directly at the Wo Hui Mandarin Test Center.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

With HSKMock.com, you can:  

• Take official-style mock testsfor HSK 1 to HSK 7-9 and YCT

• Get instant scoring and feedback

• Practice anytime, anywhere—on desktop or mobile

• Track your progress with level-specific tools

Explore All HSK Levels: Your Complete Guides

Whether you're just starting out or aiming for advanced fluency, we've got you covered with detailed guides for every level of the HSK exam:

• HSK 1: Complete Guide to Level 1 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

• HSK 2: Complete Guide to Level 2 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

• HSK 3: Complete Guide to Level 3 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025) (you are here)

• HSK 4: Complete Guide to Level 4 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

• HSK 5: Complete Guide to Level 5 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

• HSK 6: Complete Guide to Level 6 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

• HSK 7–9: Complete Guide to Levels 7 to 9 of the Chinese Proficiency Test (2025)

Each guide includes official vocabulary lists, grammar tips, prep strategies, and links to realistic mock exams on HSKMock.com. Whether you're learning for fun, study, or work—this is your one-stop roadmap to Mandarin success.