HSK 4: Level, Test Format, and How to Prepare for It

HSK 4 is a key milestone that marks your transition from elementary to intermediate Chinese proficiency. In this guide, you'll learn what the HSK 4 test covers, who it’s for, how the exam is structured, and what tools and strategies you need to pass it effectively.

I. What Is HSK 4?

HSK Level 4 (汉语水平考试四级) is part of the official Chinese Proficiency Test system (HSK) developed by Hanban, designed to assess the Chinese language skills of non-native speakers. It marks the transition from elementary to intermediate Chinese, and demonstrates that the learner is capable of communicating effectively in everyday, academic, and professional settings.

The HSK exam series consists of six main levels (HSK 1 to HSK 6), with HSK 4 being the mid-point. While HSK 1 and 2 focus on basic survival-level phrases, HSK 3 and 4 reflect more expanded use of vocabulary and grammar for real-life interaction, reading, and limited writing.

HSK Level 4 in the Proficiency Scale

In terms of international standards, HSK 4 is roughly equivalent to B1 or B2 on the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference). Students at this level should:

• Know approximately 1,200–1,400 Chinese words
• Understand most personal and professional conversations
• Read short articles, emails, and public information signs
• Express opinions on familiar topics and respond in paragraphs
• Produce short written texts or summaries in Chinese

This level is widely recognized by Chinese universities and employers as sufficient for entry-level language requirements in academic and business environments.

1. Who Should Take HSK 4?

HSK Level 4 is ideal for learners who have progressed beyond basic Chinese and want to validate their intermediate proficiency with an official certificate. Reaching this level means you can engage in conversations on most daily topics, understand intermediate texts, and begin using written Chinese in paragraphs.

Suitable for:

• Intermediate learners finishing HSK 3 and looking to level up
• Students preparing for exchange programs or universities in China
• Professionals applying for jobs that require functional workplace Chinese
• Anyone who wants formal evidence of Chinese language skills at a practical level

Not ideal for:

• Absolute beginners or those still reviewing basic tones, characters, and structure
• Learners without a consistent study routine or clear goal for the certificate
• Students hoping to study or work in highly academic or fluent environments (they may need HSK 5 or 6 instead)

Practical Benefits of Taking HSK 4:

• Visa and residency applications: HSK 4 is often accepted for X1 and X2 student visa programs
• University admissions: Satisfies language requirements for foundation programs or undergraduate entry
• Job opportunities: Demonstrates practical language ability in tourism, trade, education, or customer service roles where Chinese proficiency is useful
• Confidence boost in listening, comprehension, and writing under real test conditions

If you're looking for a professional step, an academic transition, or simply want to challenge yourself, HSK 4 offers a strong credential to showcase your dedication and progress.

2. HSK 4 Exam Format and Structure

The HSK 4 exam is designed to test your ability to communicate clearly in Mandarin Chinese across three main language skills: listening, reading, and writing. The test lasts approximately 105 minutes and includes a total of 100 questions.

Exam Sections Overview

There is a 5-minute break before the writing section.

Scoring System & Passing Criteria

Each of the three sections—listening, reading, and writing—is scored out of 100 points, for a total of 300.

• A minimum total score of 180/300 is required to pass the HSK 4 exam.
• You do not need to pass each section individually; only the combined score matters.

Test Format: Online vs. Paper-Based

You can choose between:

• Paper-based test (you write answers by hand and listen through speakers)
• Internet-based test (IBT) (taken on a computer, often at a test center with headphones)

Both formats are officially recognized and scored the same way. However, typing in Chinese may be easier for some than handwriting characters on paper.

II. Best Resources to Prepare for HSK 4

Preparing for the HSK 4 exam requires more than just knowing vocabulary—you’ll need to strengthen your grasp on grammar, improve your reading speed, listen with accuracy, and express your thoughts clearly in writing. These resources can help you tackle all sections of the test with confidence.

Vocabulary Lists and Flashcards

Knowing around 1,200–1,400 vocabulary words is key to passing HSK 4. Instead of memorizing them blindly, use structured tools to reinforce memory through spaced repetition and context.

Recommended tools:

• Anki or Quizlet: Find free HSK 4 decks by native teachers or download shared community sets
• Hack Chinese: Interactive flashcard platform tailored to HSK progression
• HSK 4 Official Word List (PDF): Include both simplified characters and Pinyin for reference
• Use frequency-based lists to prioritize words that appear more often in reading/listening tasks

Grammar Books and Online Lessons

Grammar at HSK 4 becomes more layered—including conditional sentences (如果…就…), comparisons (越…越…), and result complements (verb + 得/不 + result).

Study resources:

• HSK Standard Course 4 (textbook and workbook): Official series by Hanban with dialogues and exercises
• 汉语教程 (Chinese Course) series: For learners with strong grammar focus
• YouTube Channels such as Yoyo Chinese, Mandarin Corner, and Emma说中文 (Emma Chinese): Focused lessons with real-life sentence patterns
• Mandarin HQ or Du Chinese app to practice grammar points in readable stories

Mock Tests and Practice Materials

Testing yourself regularly is crucial—not just to check progress, but also to get used to the timing, question format, and pressure of HSK 4.

Where to practice:

• Official HSK 4 Practice Tests (provided by Hanban): Use these for full-length simulations
• HSK Online (app & web): Offers adaptive quizzes and mock exams
• HSK Mock Tests PDF with Answer Keys: Printables with explanations for listening and reading
• Tianhua Chinese or GoEast Mandarin: Offer free sample papers and guided practice sessions

Investing in the right resources—and using them consistently—makes a huge difference in your HSK 4 journey. Once you’ve built up your vocabulary and practiced with sample papers, the next step is working on a focused study plan.

III. Study Plan for Passing HSK 4

A well-structured study plan is essential for passing HSK 4—especially if you're aiming for results in a limited time. Whether you have 2 months, 8 weeks, or more, staying consistent with your practice and balancing all three sections of the test—listening, reading, and writing—is key.

2-Month Preparation Timeline (8 Weeks)

This schedule assumes daily study, but you can adapt for 4–5 days per week if needed.

Week 1–2:

• Learn/review 300–400 key vocabulary words
• Begin short listening practice (2–3 min segments) with subtitles
• Review core HSK 4 grammar patterns: 把字句, 被字句, directionals, comparisons
• Read one short article/story in graded Chinese daily

Week 3–4:

• Expand word list to 600–800
• Transition from guided listening (with subtitles) to active listening (without subtitles once familiar)
• Do 1 full practice test under timed conditions
• Practice 2 short writing responses per week

Week 5–6:

• Focus on weak areas from mock tests (e.g., listening speed or sentence ordering in writing)
• Strengthen reading fluency with longer texts
• Review 100% of grammar points on checklist
• Do flash review of high-frequency vocab

Week 7–8:

• Complete 2 full mock tests with scoring
• Polish writing technique (4–6 model paragraphs)
• Simulate full test environment as closely as possible
• Focus on mental prep: stress management, time checkpoints, test-day confidence

Daily Practice Routine Ideas (60–90 mins/day)

The key to success isn’t just working hard—it’s working strategically. Review your mistakes, analyze patterns of confusion, and target your study to where it matters most.

IV. FAQs About HSK 4

1. How long does it take to reach HSK 4 level?

On average, learners need about 400–600 hours of Chinese study to reach HSK 4, depending on language background, study method, and consistency. If you already passed HSK 3, you might need 2–4 additional months of consistent study.

2. Is HSK 4 enough to work in China or apply for a visa?

HSK 4 is sometimes sufficient for jobs in non-specialized roles (e.g., hospitality, education assistants, business support) and can help with X-type student visa applications. However, roles that involve fluent communication or documentation may require HSK 5 or 6.

3. Can I skip from HSK 2 directly to HSK 4?

Technically yes, but it's challenging. Vocabulary and grammar double from HSK 2 to HSK 4, so you'll need a strong study plan. Many learners benefit from reviewing HSK 3 content thoroughly before jumping ahead.

4. How much writing is required in HSK 4?

The writing section includes:

• Sentence reordering (based on word order logic)
• Composing a short paragraph (usually 80–100 characters) based on keywords
  You’ll be expected to apply correct word usage and basic grammar, but not advanced composition.

5. How often can I take the HSK 4 exam?

HSK exams are typically offered once a month at official test centers worldwide. You can register to retake the exam as often as needed, provided registration deadlines are met. Choose paper or computer-based formats depending on your preference.

HSK 4 is more than just a test—it's a meaningful milestone in your Chinese learning journey. Reaching this level means you've moved beyond the basics and are ready to engage with the language in real conversations, work, and even academic environments.

With a solid understanding of the exam format, a tailored study plan, and the right resources, passing HSK 4 is entirely achievable. Stay consistent, review intentionally, and trust the progress you’ve made—one character, one sentence, and one study session at a time. Follow PREP for more practical study guides, HSK strategies, and learner-friendly tools to help you move confidently toward fluency.