New HSK 3.0 Level 5 (Band 5)
2026 Update
Total vocabulary has been reduced from 4316 to 3600 words. The 2026 update specifies exactly which topics are covered at each level, making it clear what real-world situations test takers should prepare for. HSK Band 5 Topic Outline: Ecology, folk legends, philosophy, ancient science, and trade.
New HSK 3.0 Band 5 Vocabulary List (2026 Version)Standards
Test takers have good listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, as well as basic translation skills. Be able to have complete fluent and effective conversation on topics such as complicated situations related to daily life, study and work.
Be able to handle conversation such as social relationships, lifestyles, learning methods, natural environment. Be able to exchange opinions, describe your study methods and suggestions.
Syllable |
Character |
Vocabulary |
Grammar |
Handwriting |
822 |
1500 |
4316 |
357 |
550 |
1. Listening
Test takers can understand the required topics and tasks from band 5, including informal and formal dialogues or speeches (within 500 characters). The materials are spoken in a neutral tone without an obvious accent. The speaking speed is normal or slightly fast (200 to 220 characters per minute). Be able to understand relevant cultural contents involved in the conversations.
2. Speaking
Test takers can handle all required syllables for band 5 and pronounce these syllables properly with a neutral tone. Be able to use the vocabulary and grammar from band 5 to hold interactions and speak about various topics. Be able to use relatively complex sentences to communicate with others and describe an event with details. Be able to use paragraphs with complex structures to describe things, express personal opinions.
New HSK 3.0 Band 5 Vocabulary List (2021 Version)New HSK 3.0 Band 5 Grammar
New HSK 3.0 Syllable List
New HSK 3.0 Character List
New HSK 3.0 Handwriting Character List
3. Reading
Test takers can read the required syllables, characters and vocabulary for band 5. Be able to understand the materials (within 700 characters). Reading speed should be no less than 160 characters per minute. Be able to understand hidden meanings and cultural factors by reading between the lines and making logical references. Be able to handle reading skills such as fast reading, extensive reading and filtering key information.
4. Writing
Test takers can handwrite the 250 Chinese characters from the required handwriting list. Be able to analyze the structures of Chinese characters. Be able to use complex structures to write paragraphs and compose regular narrative, explanatory and simple argumentative paragraphs within the given duration, with no less than 450 Chinese characters.
5. Translation
Test takers have basic translation skills. Be able to translate topics and tasks from band 5 with completed content. Be able to handle oral interpretation informally. Be able to accurately translate simple written narrative and explanatory content. Be able to translate normal written narrative and explanatory content accurately.
Test Content
HSK (Level 5) is intended for intermediate-level Chinese learners and proficient users, with a specific emphasis on advancing listening, reading, and writing skills.
HSK (Level 5) has a total of 100 questions, divided into listening, reading, and writing sections. The entire exam takes about 125 minutes (including 5 minutes for candidates to fill in personal information).
| Test Content | Number of Items | Duration (Min) | ||
| I. Listening | Section 1 | 20 | 45 | About 30 |
| Section 2 | 25 | |||
| Filling in the answer sheet (transferring the answers of the listening part to the answer sheet) | 5 | |||
| II. Reading | Section 1 | 15 | 45 | 45 |
| Section 2 | 10 | |||
| Section 3 | 20 | |||
| III. Writing | Section 1 | 8 | 10 | 40 |
| Section 2 | 2 | |||
| Total | / | 100 | About 120 | |
The HSK (Level 5) score report provides four scores: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Total. Achieving a full score entails earning 300 points. The HSK scores are valid for two years, starting from the exam date.
