HSK 3.0 Vocabulary List: All 9 Levels
Complete HSK 3.0 word lists with pinyin, meanings, example sentences, stroke order animations, flashcards, quizzes and grammar. Pick your level and start learning.
Choose your HSK 3.0 level
Each level has its own page with the full word list and every study tool.
HSK 3.0 Level 1
Greetings, numbers, family, food, time and everyday basics.
HSK 3.0 Level 2
Shopping, directions, hobbies, weather and simple conversation.
HSK 3.0 Level 3
Describe experiences, give opinions and read short texts.
HSK 3.0 Level 4
Work, study and society; follow longer conversations.
HSK 3.0 Level 5
Read newspapers and reports; discuss abstract topics.
HSK 3.0 Level 6
Understand complex texts and speak fluently on many topics.
HSK 3.0 Levels 7-9
Literary, academic and specialist vocabulary.
What is on every level page
Everything you need to learn the words, on one page.
Stroke order
Watch every character drawn stroke by stroke.
Audio
Hear each word and example sentence.
Pinyin and meaning
Tone-marked pinyin, part of speech and English meaning.
Example sentences
Natural sentences with pinyin and translation.
Flashcards and quiz
Review by deck, shuffle, save words and test yourself.
Grammar
Key patterns for each level with examples.
HSK 3.0 levels at a glance
| Level | Stage | Level name | New words | Total words |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Elementary | Beginner | 300 | 300 |
| Level 2 | Elementary | Elementary | 200 | 500 |
| Level 3 | Elementary | Pre-intermediate | 500 | 1,000 |
| Level 4 | Intermediate | Intermediate | 1,000 | 2,000 |
| Level 5 | Intermediate | Upper-intermediate | 1,600 | 3,600 |
| Level 6 | Intermediate | Advanced | 1,800 | 5,400 |
| Levels 7-9 | Advanced | Proficient | 5,600 | 11,000 |
About HSK 3.0
HSK is the international standard test of Chinese for non-native speakers. HSK 3.0 replaces the six-level HSK 2.0 with nine levels in three stages: elementary (levels 1 to 3), intermediate (levels 4 to 6) and advanced (levels 7 to 9). The vocabulary grows level by level, so every level also includes the words from the levels before it.
Learning the words in the right order is the fastest way to prepare. Our lists are organised by level, so you can see exactly which words belong to your target level and study them with audio, stroke order, example sentences, flashcards and a quiz.
If your goal is a Chinese university, your HSK level can affect which programmes you can apply for. CIES Study helps international students choose a programme, prepare documents and apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is HSK 3.0?
HSK 3.0 is the updated Chinese proficiency standard. It has nine levels: levels 1 to 6, and a combined advanced stage for levels 7 to 9. The word lists are larger than in the old HSK 2.0 and place more weight on speaking and writing.
How many words are in HSK 3.0?
The lists on this site add up to 11,000 words: 300 at Level 1, 200 more at Level 2, 500 at Level 3, 1,000 at Level 4, 1,600 at Level 5, 1,800 at Level 6 and 5,600 at Levels 7 to 9.
Are the HSK 3.0 word lists free?
Yes. You can browse every list, listen to the words, see stroke order and use the flashcards and quiz for free, with no account.
Which HSK level do I need to study in China?
It depends on the university and programme. Chinese-taught programmes often ask for HSK 4 or above, while many English-taught programmes do not require HSK. Message CIES Study on WhatsApp and we will check the requirements for your target university.
When does the new HSK 3.0 exam start?
Please check the official HSK announcement for the current exam dates and format, because they can change. These word lists follow the new HSK 3.0 vocabulary.
How should I study with these pages?
Start at your level, learn 10 to 20 words a day, listen to each word, watch the stroke order, read the example sentence aloud, then review with flashcards and the quiz.
Want to study in China?
CIES Study helps international students with university admission, scholarships and visa guidance. The consultation is free.
