Free HSK 3 test (HSK 3.0)
This is a free 20-question test of HSK 3 under the new HSK 3.0 standard. It takes about ten minutes, there is no signup, and it is scored on this page with the reason for every answer. 12 of 20 is a pass.
The HSK 3.0 word list adds 491 words at level 3 (991 in total), in the elementary stage of the standard.
Questions 1 to 14 each have a gap, and the word that fills it is one the list places at exactly this band. Questions 15 to 20 ask for the natural reply to a line of conversation.
There is no pinyin, as on the exam from level 3 up.
Not sure this is your level? Take the placement test first.
The test
What HSK 3 asks under HSK 3.0
| Words new at this band | Words in total | Characters new at this band | Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 491 | 991 | 284 | Elementary |
Those counts come from the HSK 3.0 lists as this site vendors them, and they are not the old six-level numbers. The whole list is on the HSK 3 vocabulary page, and the differences between the two standards are in HSK 3.0 against HSK 2.0.
What this test leaves out. It is a reading test of words and grammar. The real exam also has listening, writing and a speaking component, so a pass here says the vocabulary is in place and nothing about your ear. How to pass HSK 3 covers the rest.
Other levels: HSK 1 · HSK 2 · HSK 4 · HSK 5 · HSK 6 · HSK 7-9 · placement test · all free HSK tests.
Frequently asked questions
Is this HSK 3 test free?
Yes. There is no account, no email field and no limit on retakes. The score and the explanation for every question appear on this page.
How many words does HSK 3 need under HSK 3.0?
The HSK 3.0 list adds 491 words at level 3, for 991 in total counting the bands below it, written with 284 characters new to this band. The full HSK 3 word list.
What score is a pass on this HSK 3 test?
12 out of 20, which is 60%. That is the proportion the HSK has used as its own pass line (120 of 200 at levels 1 and 2, 180 of 300 at levels 3 to 6).
Is this the official HSK 3 exam?
No. It is a reading test of vocabulary and grammar written by GraphChinese against the HSK 3.0 word list. The official exam also tests listening, writing and speaking, so a pass here means the words and patterns are in place, and the rest still needs its own practice. The HSK exam format.
What should I do after the HSK 3 test?
Under 60%, take the HSK 2 test to find the level that holds. Between 60% and 90%, the questions you missed are your study list. At 90% or more, move up to the HSK 4 test.
I do not know which level to test. What then?
Take the HSK placement test first. It asks four questions at every band and returns an estimated level.