According to the Chinese Test Service website, HSK 3.0 officially launches on December 13, 2026. Registration is open for the launch session, but local schedules and exam versions may vary. For instance, Japan will stay with HSK 2.0 through 2026 and introduce HSK 3.0 from January 2027.

If you’re planning to take the test, check the dates below and confirm the arrangements with your local organizer before registering.

Global launch on December 13

Chinese Testing International (CTI) has announced the following deadlines for the December 13, 2026 HSK 3.0 session:

• Paper-based test: registration closes November 16, 2026 at 24:00 GMT+8
• Computer-based test: registration closes December 3, 2026 at 24:00 GMT+8

Keep in mind that the deadlines are listed as GMT+8. Check for any earlier local registration or payment deadline at your location. 

Japan

Japan’s December 13, 2026 session will still use HSK 2.0. Its registration period runs from October 13 to November 13, 2026, according to the HSK Japan schedule.

In an update published on November 10, the HSK Japan committee confirmed that HSK 3.0 will begin with its January 2027 tests. Consult Japan’s 2027 schedule for the individual test dates and registration arrangements.

Japan also confirms that written and oral tests can be booked separately after the transition in 2027. Candidates are not required to register for both.

United States

For US candidates, availability and registration arrangements should be confirmed with the chosen US test center. An official nationwide US transition date for HSK 3.0 has not been confirmed at this moment.

For US test registration, use the Chinese Test Service website to find a testing center, then confirm the test date, version, format, and deadline directly with your center.

South Korea

The HSK Korea office confirms that HSK 3.0 will be used from the December 13, 2026 session. Its announced registration dates are:

• Registration opens: October 30, 2026.
• Paper-based registration closes: November 16, 2026.
• Computer-based registration closes: December 3, 2026.

Follow HSK Korea’s local booking instructions for cutoff times and payment. For this December session, its notice states that the written and speaking tests require separate registrations if you wish to take both.

Before completing your registration

Registration deadlines and test arrangements vary by country and test center, even for tests held on the same day. Before booking, check your center’s exam version, available levels, test format, speaking-test requirements, as well as registration and payment deadlines. Register early, as places may fill before the closing date.

Under CTI’s candidate regulations, registration is valid only after the required details and payment are completed. Make sure your personal information matches your identification document, and follow the center’s instructions for obtaining your admission ticket.

Preparing for your test

The official HSK 3.0 syllabus is a useful starting point for understanding what your level covers. It will also be helpful to try the sample questions on the Chinese Test Service website before planning your study time, as they can give you a clearer sense of what feels familiar and what needs more practice. As the test gets closer, a timed mock test through HSK Mock can help you get used to the pace. If you’re also taking the speaking test, practicing your answers out loud can help you feel more prepared and confident.

We wish everyone taking the test on December 13 the best of luck!