About the USCIS Citizenship Test
Everything you need to know about the U.S. Naturalization Test
2025 USCIS Civics Test — Overview
The USCIS Naturalization Test (often called the citizenship test) is an oral exam given during your interview. A USCIS officer asks questions about:
- U.S. history
- American government
- Civic principles
- Basic English (speaking, reading, and writing)
The version of the civics test you take depends on when you filed Form N-400.
Naturalization Civics Test Versions★
2008 Civics Test
For Form N-400 filed before October 20, 2025
The officer stops when you:
- • Answer 6 correctly, or
- • Answer 5 incorrectly
2025 Civics Test
For Form N-400 filed on or after October 20, 2025
The officer stops when you:
- • Answer 12 correctly, or
- • Answer 9 incorrectly
Implemented under Executive Order 14161. Based on the 2020 version with updated administration procedures.
65/20 Special Consideration
You may qualify for a simplified civics test if you are:
- 65 years or older, and
- Have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for 20+ years
In that case:
- • You are asked 10 questions
- • You must answer 6 correctly
- • Questions come from a special list of 20 starred questions (*)
- • You may take the civics test in your preferred language with an interpreter
English Test Requirements
Most applicants must show basic English proficiency in three areas:
Speaking
Evaluated by the officer during your interview while reviewing your Form N-400. You are not expected to understand every word on the form, but you must show basic comprehension and ability to respond.
Reading
You must read 1 out of 3 sentences correctly aloud.
- • Sentences appear on a digital tablet
- • Vocabulary includes simple words, names of presidents and places (e.g., United States, Abraham Lincoln), and short phrases (e.g., Bill of Rights)
- • You may mispronounce or skip small words, as long as the overall meaning is clear
Writing
You must correctly write 1 out of 3 dictated sentences using a stylus on a tablet.
- • Vocabulary includes names, months, and simple/long phrases (e.g., one, freedom of speech)
- • You may make minor spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors, but:
- – You must write legibly
- – You may not abbreviate words
Important: USCIS does not require perfect English. Officers are trained to expect common mistakes and may repeat or rephrase questions if you ask.
English Language Exceptions & Accommodations
Age & Residency Exceptions (English Test Only)
You may be exempt from the English requirement if, at the time you file Form N-400, you are:
| Age | Years as LPR | English Test | Civics Test Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50+ | 20+ years | Exempt | Native language |
| 55+ | 15+ years | Exempt | Native language |
| 65+ | 20+ years | Exempt | Simplified test (10 from 20*) |
Applicants using these exceptions must bring a qualified interpreter.
Medical Disability Exception
You may be excused from the English test, civics test, or both if you have a qualifying medical condition that:
- Is physical, developmental, or mental, and
- Has lasted (or is expected to last) at least 12 months
To request this exemption, you must submit:
Form N-648 — Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, completed by a licensed physician, osteopathic doctor, or clinical psychologist.
Important: Illiteracy (not being able to read or write) alone is not a basis for an exemption, but some applicants may still qualify under the disability rules above.
How to Prepare Effectively★
Here are practical strategies to improve your chances of passing:
Start early
Review official questions and vocabulary well before your interview
Use simple materials
Children's books are great for building basic English vocabulary
Use video and audio
Take advantage of USCIS and USA Learns multimedia resources
Practice with others
Ask friends or family to quiz you and help with pronunciation
Take practice tests
Simulate the real exam to build confidence and familiarity
Study in small chunks
Break material into categories (holidays, presidents, verbs, etc.)
Take notes
Use flashcards and write down key facts to help with memory
Group related questions
Study related topics together for better retention
After the Exam
If You Pass
You are close to completing the naturalization process. USCIS will provide instructions for the Oath Ceremony, the final step to becoming a U.S. citizen.
If You Do Not Pass
- • You may retake the entire exam or the specific portion you failed
- • USCIS will schedule your second test about 60–90 days after your first interview
- • The questions on your re-exam will be different from your first test
Important Notes About Re-examination
If You Miss the Second Exam: Without a valid reason (such as hospitalization), missing the re-exam is treated as a failed attempt, and your application will be denied.
If You Fail the Re-Examination: USCIS will deny your naturalization application. You may appeal within 30 days of receiving the decision. If the appeal is granted, USCIS will schedule a hearing within 180 days, and you will be re-tested on the section you did not pass.
Requesting Accommodations
You may request special accommodations if you:
- Are deaf or hard of hearing
- Are blind or have low vision
- Have mobility or dexterity limitations
- Or have another condition that affects test-taking
Possible accommodations include:
- • Extra time
- • Large-print reading materials
- • Answering questions verbally instead of writing
- • Testing at home or at a senior center
- • Using an interpreter
To request accommodations:
- • Indicate your needs on Form N-400, or
- • Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 (TDD: 1-800-767-1833), or
- • Contact your local USCIS field office
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What topics are covered on the citizenship test?
- English (speaking, reading, writing)
- U.S. history
- U.S. government and civics
- Principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution
- Some current government-related information
Can I retake the test if I fail?
Yes. If your application is denied for failing the test, you may reapply after 90 days and must retake the required sections.
What is the passing score?
- 2008 test: 6 out of 10
- 2025 test: 12 out of 20
- 65/20 test: 6 out of 10 from 20 starred questions
What identification do I need for the test?
Bring your appointment notice, permanent resident card, state-issued ID, passport, or other approved photo identification to your interview.