Frequently asked questions
HSK papers, official registration, plans, the AI tutor, and the public vocabulary lists — answered without a guaranteed pass.
What you will find here
This page answers product and exam questions. Chinese Trainer is study material. Dates, centers, and registration are only on Chinese Testing International. The framework is run by CLEC.
The HSK guides cover the six-level exam still offered at most centers. Public word lists live on HSK vocabulary. Logged-in practice is a different set of URLs and is not what Google should index.
Is Chinese Trainer useful if I am starting from absolute zero?
Yes. Start at HSK 1 with short phrases, pinyin, and daily review. The HSK 1 guide states what that paper asks.
Where do I register for the official HSK?
Only on chinesetest.cn. This site is not a test center and does not sell exam seats.
Six-level HSK or the 2021 nine-band outline — which does this site follow?
The guides follow the six-level exam (classic bands 150 to 5,000 words, summarized on Wikipedia HSK). The app also stores an HSK 7+ list that groups the 2021 advanced bands. Confirm the paper at your center before you mix syllabi.
Does the app help prepare for the HSK exam?
It helps you study: lists, grammar, readings, and HSK-style mocks. It does not guarantee a pass. Official registration stays on chinesetest.cn.
What is the difference between /vocabulary and the in-app vocabulary screen?
The public vocabulary hub is the catalog (hanzi, pinyin, translation). The logged-in app queue is private practice. Search engines should index the public lists, not your account screens.
Can I cancel my subscription whenever I want?
Yes. Manage it through Stripe and keep access until the end of the paid period or active trial. Details: pricing.
Does the AI recognize my level?
On AI tutor plans it adapts length and correction to your HSK level. Answers can be wrong. Treat it as practice, not an official marker.
How much time do I need per day to learn Chinese?
A realistic floor is 15–30 focused minutes. The HSK 1 guide uses an 8-week sketch at that pace. Consistency beats weekend cramming.
Is Chinese Trainer good for HSK 3 through HSK 6?
The path covers those levels in the app. Read the matching guide first so you know the six-level paper, then practice. HSK 7+ in the app is inventory, not a promise that your center uses the nine-band outline.
Can I learn Chinese without a teacher?
Many people do, with a structured path, listening, and correction. A live teacher is still better for pronunciation and writing if you can afford one.
Is Duolingo or HelloChinese better for Mandarin?
HelloChinese is the stronger Mandarin course. Duolingo is the cheaper habit app. Write-up: Duolingo vs HelloChinese.
Skritter vs LingoDeer — which should I use?
Skritter for handwriting. LingoDeer for a structured course. They are different jobs. Write-up: Skritter vs LingoDeer.
What are the best HSK platforms in 2026?
It depends on the job: HelloChinese to start, Pleco to look up, Skritter for characters, this app for an HSK path with SRS and a tutor. Roundup: best HSK apps 2026.
Is Duolingo or Chinese Trainer better for Chinese?
Duolingo builds habit. This app is for HSK lists, mocks, and a tutor. Comparison: Duolingo vs Chinese Trainer.
Does it work on mobile and desktop?
Yes. Browser, PWA, or the Android app on Google Play — same account. iOS is on the way: mobile apps.
Related pages
Official HSK sources
Register and check dates on Chinese Testing International. The framework is run by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (formerly Hanban).
- Chinese Testing International — official HSK registration
Official HSK dates, test centers, and registration. Chinese Trainer is not a test center.
- Center for Language Education and Cooperation (formerly Hanban)
The body behind Chinese as a foreign language programs and the HSK framework.
- HSK on Wikipedia
Overview of the Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi: levels, history, and format.