Hey everyone,

So I just completed the Old HSK 1 list and need to add a new list now. Just wondering what the difference is between the old HSK and the new, and which you suggest that I recommend proceeding with. And, if anyone has experience with this, what level of the new HSK I should start with.

Thanks,
James

The beauty of Skritter is that it sorts out what you already know and what you don't. If you did a New HSK list, I would recommend starting at one. I started doing HSK lists after having already studied for a year and a half. I ran through levels 1-5 relatively quickly. 6 is a bit slower, though. If I ever decide to go and study the old HSK lists, I will just plug in level 1 -x and see what I get.

The differences between the two HSKs are rather extensive. New HSK has 5000 words. The Old HSK has 8882 words. The old one is quite a bit more difficult I hear. The new one, a Chinese person could pass its highest levels. The old one, I have talked to a Chinese person with a masters in Mandarin and applied linguists who admitted to me that, to be frankly honest, she would be slightly nervous to take the highest level of it. Teachers I have talked to have said, if you are going to take one, take the new one. Use the old one's vocabulary to patch up any holes you have left over from the New one's word lists.

That is what I have heard and read anyway. I have not taken the test.

Thanks... that's helpful. New HSK it is!

If you are planning on using your score, take the old exam. Many companies and schools do not accept new hsk scores because there are a lot of unknowns.