Chinese-language roadmap: from zero to HSK 5 in 18 months

Chinese is one of the most in-demand languages of the 21st century. Most of our students start from zero and reach HSK 4–5 in 1–2 years — which unlocks the best Chinese programs.

HSK 3.0 structure (since 2024)

• HSK 1–3 — basic level (~600 characters, everyday communication).
• HSK 4 — intermediate (~1,200 characters, news reading, minimum for Chinese-taught bachelor's).
• HSK 5 — advanced (~2,500 characters, academic texts, minimum for CSC at top universities).
• HSK 6 — professional (~5,000 characters, translation, literature, teaching).

Hours per level

• HSK 1: 80–100 hours.
• HSK 2: +120 hours (200 total).
• HSK 3: +180 hours (380 total).
• HSK 4: +280 hours (660 total).
• HSK 5: +400 hours (1,060 total).
• HSK 6: +600 hours (1,660 total).

A Chinese-language year in China gives 800–1,100 classroom hours — enough to go from zero to HSK 5.

Best textbooks and apps

• “Standard Course HSK” — Hanban's official textbook, used in most universities.
• “Boya Chinese” — advanced, used at Peking University.
• HelloChinese — mobile app for levels 1–3.
• Anki — for memorising characters.
• Pleco — the №1 dictionary for Chinese learners.

How a language year works in China

Where to take the HSK exam

You can take it at Confucius Institutes or any Chinese university. The fee is 150–500 ¥ depending on the level. The certificate is valid for 2 years.

Most common learner mistakes

• Ignoring tones early on — you'll have to relearn later.
• Studying characters in isolation, away from words and phrases.
• Pushing too fast without reinforcement.
• No live practice — speak with native speakers from day one.