HSK Level 4 Complete Guide 2026: Format, Vocabulary and Preparation
HSK Level 4 is an important intermediate milestone for learners who want to understand longer conversations, read connected texts and express complete ideas in writing.
This 2026 guide explains the current test format, the 1,200-word vocabulary requirement, essential grammar, preparation strategies and how HSK 3.0 may affect your test choice.
Check which HSK format you are taking
Regular HSK test dates in 2026 continue to use the current six-level format. HSK 3.0 is being introduced through selected trial sessions, with its wider launch to be announced separately.
For regular current-format HSK Level 4, the exam includes Listening, Reading and Writing. For an HSK 3.0 Level 4 trial session, candidates must also register for the corresponding speaking test.
What is HSK Level 4?
HSK, or the Chinese Proficiency Test, assesses the Chinese-language ability of non-native speakers. HSK Level 4 is intended for intermediate learners who can understand and use Chinese across a wider range of everyday, academic and workplace situations.
Compared with HSK Level 3, the current test requires a larger vocabulary, longer listening and reading comprehension, and more independent control of sentence formation in the writing section.
Current HSK Level 4 test format
| Test section | Parts | Questions | Approximate time | What it tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 3 parts | 45 | About 30 minutes | Understanding statements and dialogues, following details and identifying the speakers' purpose or conclusion. |
| Reading | 3 parts | 40 | 40 minutes | Completing sentences, arranging sentence order and understanding longer passages. |
| Writing | 2 parts | 15 | 25 minutes | Arranging words into complete sentences and writing short sentences using a picture and a given word. |
| Total | 8 parts | 100 | About 100 minutes | The complete examination takes about 105 minutes when the five minutes for personal information are included. |
The maximum score is 300. A total score of 180 or above is considered a passing result. The score report includes Listening, Reading, Writing and Total scores.
HSK Level 4 includes more connected information and longer passages. You need to understand relationships between sentences rather than translate every word individually.
HSK Level 4 vocabulary in 2026
The current HSK Level 4 is based on a cumulative vocabulary of 1,200 words. This includes the 600 words from HSK Levels 1 to 3 plus approximately 600 additional words.
The new vocabulary allows you to discuss opinions, decisions, relationships, work, study, health, travel, social situations and more abstract ideas with greater detail.
At this level, memorising an English definition is not enough. Learn common word combinations, sentence patterns and differences between words with similar meanings.
Review the current HSK Level 4 test and vocabulary information before organising your study plan.
HSK Level 4 grammar you need to know
HSK Level 4 requires a stronger understanding of sentence relationships, complements, conjunctions and how information is organised across a complete statement.
How to prepare for HSK Level 4
Confirm your test versionCheck whether you are taking the current HSK Level 4 or an HSK 3.0 trial session. The trial format also requires the corresponding speaking test.
Strengthen the first 600 wordsHSK Level 4 is cumulative. Weaknesses from HSK Levels 1 to 3 will slow down your listening and reading comprehension.
Learn the full 1,200-word vocabulary in contextStudy common combinations, example sentences and differences between related verbs, adjectives, adverbs and conjunctions.
Practise longer listening without pausingListen for opinions, changes, reasons, conclusions and the relationship between speakers rather than isolated keywords.
Build reading speedPractise identifying the main idea, sentence order and logical connections without translating every line into English.
Write complete sentences regularlyPractise word order and create short, natural sentences using a given word or visual prompt.
Take a full timed mock testUse the result to identify whether knowledge, speed, concentration or written accuracy is limiting your score.
Practise the complete HSK Level 4 test
A full mock test helps you experience the Listening, Reading and Writing sections under realistic conditions and shows which areas require more preparation.
Who should take HSK Level 4?
HSK Level 4 can be a useful milestone for learners who want to demonstrate broader intermediate listening, reading and writing ability.
Taking HSK Level 4 in Shanghai?
You can check upcoming HSK Level 4 dates, test formats and availability through Wo Hui Mandarin's official Jing’an HSK test centre.
Test dates, formats and available levels vary. Always confirm the details shown on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the current HSK Level 4?
It is an intermediate test with 1,200 cumulative vocabulary words, longer listening and reading tasks and a writing section requiring accurate sentence formation.
Is HSK Level 4 changing in 2026?
Regular 2026 HSK dates continue to use the current six-level format. HSK 3.0 trial sessions are being held at selected test centres, and Level 4 candidates in those sessions must also register for the corresponding speaking test.
How many words do I need for the current HSK Level 4?
The current HSK Level 4 is based on a cumulative vocabulary of 1,200 words, including the vocabulary required for HSK Levels 1 to 3.
What does the writing section include?
The current writing section includes sentence-order questions and short sentence-writing tasks based on a picture and a given word.
What score do I need to pass?
The maximum score is 300. A total score of 180 or above is considered a passing result for the current HSK Level 4.
Do I need HSK Level 3 before registering?
You do not need to hold an HSK Level 3 certificate, but HSK Level 4 is cumulative, so you should already understand the earlier vocabulary and grammar.
How many mock tests should I take?
One test gives you an initial readiness check. Three tests provide a useful sequence: identify weaknesses, measure progress and complete a final rehearsal before exam day.
Ready to prepare for HSK Level 4?
Confirm your test format, strengthen the full 1,200-word vocabulary and practise Listening, Reading and Writing under realistic time limits.
