You’re learning Chinese.
But can you actually use it?

Yes. The HSK 1 cohort starts with pronunciation, pinyin and your first characters. HSK 2 requires HSK 3.0 Level 1 knowledge or equivalent; having completed the HSK 1 exam is preferred. HSK 3 requires HSK 3.0 Level 2 knowledge or equivalent; having completed the HSK 2 exam is preferred. We check your starting point before accepting a booking, including the exam version you studied. A certificate is helpful but does not replace current knowledge.

All three course plans target the HSK 3.0 examination syllabus published in November 2025. HSK 1 covers 300 vocabulary entries; HSK 2 builds towards 500 in total; HSK 3 towards 1,000. HSK 1 and 2 focus on listening and reading exam preparation. HSK 3 adds writing and preparation for the corresponding speaking test. HSK 1 resources are available now; HSK 2 and 3 lesson materials are being prepared before paid enrolment opens. Confirm the version and speaking-test requirements at your test centre before booking. View the official syllabus.

Doinel Mandarin Foundations starts with your first words and works towards everyday exchanges and HSK 3.0 Level 1 listening and reading. The programme gives you 16 teaching weeks: 32 live classes, 32 teaching hours and 3–4 hours of independent practice each week. Each of the 16 units has an introduction class and a practice class. Holiday breaks are listed in the course dates and are additional to the teaching weeks. Your teacher reviews your progress and mock practice before recommending an exam date; some learners will need longer.

Our plans allow 16 teaching weeks for HSK 1, 20 for HSK 2 and 28 for HSK 3. HSK 1 builds pronunciation and basic sentence skills from zero. HSK 2 adds connected sentences, comparisons and descriptions, with time to consolidate the previous level. HSK 3 adds 500 vocabulary entries beyond HSK 2, more complex grammar, writing and speaking-test preparation. These are our planned course lengths, not official HSK study-hour requirements or a guarantee of readiness. Regular homework and progress checks matter at every level.

Each cohort has two 60-minute live lessons a week. Allow another 3–4 hours of homework for HSK 1, 3–4 hours for HSK 2, or 4–5 hours for HSK 3. A few short practice sessions between classes can make the routine easier to maintain.

It covers continued preparation support, not an exam result or refund. Complete every lesson or agreed catch-up work, all homework and mock practice; sit the agreed exam within 90 days of finishing; and send a failed result within 30 days of receiving it. Eligible learners receive a weekly 60-minute group session, tasks and feedback at no additional teaching fee, while meeting the practice and retake conditions. Official exam fees remain separate. See eligibility, deadlines and exclusions or the full terms.

Classes are live online on Zoom or Tencent Meeting, taught from China. Each lesson lasts 60 minutes. Course details list every date and a downloadable calendar. Times remain fixed in UTC, so check any daylight-saving change in your own country.

Doinel Mandarin Foundations is €888 including taxes for 16 teaching weeks and 32 one-hour lessons. Your full course includes all listed live lessons, teaching materials, set homework feedback, mock practice and 12 months of full HSK 1 tool access. Eligible learners also receive continued group preparation under our Pass-Support Guarantee. Prices include applicable taxes. Official HSK exam fees and registration are separate and paid to your test centre. There is no subscription or automatic renewal.

Tell us as early as you can. Missed group classes do not normally receive an individual replacement, but you still receive the lesson materials. You can cancel for a full refund before the first class. Statutory cancellation rights and remedies for service problems remain protected. The terms explain refunds after teaching begins.

Paid booking is not open yet. Join the free waitlist for your chosen cohort. We’ll contact you about availability and the next booking step. A waitlist entry does not reserve a place.

Doinel Chinese Academy is a standalone brand of Doinel Limited, registered in England and Wales, company number 07563110. These initial cohorts are for adults aged 18 and over.