Comparing HSK 2.0 and HSK 3.0 – Why you might not pass if you follow the previous exam structure

Do you know the differnece between HSK 2.0 and its latest version 3.0? Under HSK 3.0, learners are introduced to an additional 6092 words compared to HSK 2.

There is a significant transition from the previous HSK 2.0 to the updated HSK 3.0. This transition is not merely a shift in the examination framework but embodies a more comprehensive approach to evaluating Chinese language proficiency. Here we delve into the key differences between HSK 2.0 and HSK 3.0, shedding light on what these changes entail for learners.

Vocabulary Expansion:

One of the most notable differences is the expansion of vocabulary across levels 1 to 6. Under HSK 3.0, learners are introduced to an additional 6092 words compared to HSK 2.0. This expansion implies a more robust language acquisition, preparing students for real-world interactions in a Chinese-speaking environment.

	HSK 2.	HSK 3.0
Lv	Vocabulary	Chinese Characters	Accum.*	Words	Accum.	Grammar Points	Accum.*
1	150	300	300	500	500	48	48
2	300	300	600	772	1272	81	129
3	600	300	900	973	2245	81	210
4	1200	300	1200	1000	3245	76	286
5	2500	300	1500	1071	4316	71	357
6	5000	300	1800	1140	5456	67	424
7-9	—	1200	3000	5636	11092	148	572

Introduction to Characters and Translation:

HSK 3.0 now includes a focus on handwritten Chinese characters and translation, aspects that were not emphasized in HSK 2.0. This not only enhances a student’s ability to communicate effectively but also bridges the gap between digital and traditional forms of language usage.

Redistribution of Words:

Certain words that were previously introduced in higher levels of HSK 2.0 have now been redistributed to lower levels in HSK 3.0. For instance, the word “爱好” (hobby) which was at level 3 in HSK 2.0, is now introduced at level 1 in HSK 3.0. Similarly, “包子” (steamed bun) has moved from level 4 to level 1, indicating a shift towards a more practical and daily usage vocabulary from the outset.

Enhanced Learning Materials:

The transition from HSK 2.0 to HSK 3.0 is a substantial stride towards making Chinese language learning more comprehensive, practical, and aligned with real-world communication needs. The expanded vocabulary, introduction of handwritten characters and translation, and the redistribution of words across levels are indicative of a more holistic approach to mastering the Chinese language.

TutorABC Chinese has aligned its HSK course materials with the HSK 3.0 standards, ensuring that students are well-prepared and capable of excelling in the examinations under this new framework. TutorABC Chinese has compiled a vocabulary comparison table for Level 1 between HSK 2.0 and HSK 3.0. Please contact our education advisor to schedule and attend a demo class to receive the comparison table.