USCIS Director Says Trump Admin Will Make Citizenship Test Harder

As of July 26, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has not made the U.S. citizenship test harder, despite earlier proposals and public debate during the Trump administration and in the years that followed. Instead, USCIS has decided to keep the 2008 version of the naturalization test in place. This update provides a clear summary of what has changed, who is affected, important dates, required actions for applicants, and the broader implications for those seeking U.S. citizenship.

Summary of What Changed

In recent years, there was significant discussion about making the US citizenship test more difficult. During the Trump administration, officials argued that the test was “too easy” and did not do enough to check applicants’ knowledge of U.S. history, government, and English. In 2020, USCIS even proposed a new version of the test that would have required applicants to describe photographs in English and answer multiple-choice civics questions on a tablet.

However, after a trial period and over 1,300 public comments—most of which opposed the changes—USCIS decided to cancel the redesign. By late 2024 and early 2025, the agency officially announced that it would keep the 2008 version of the test. This decision came after strong feedback from immigrant advocacy groups, legal experts, and members of the public who said the changes would create unfair barriers, especially for people with less formal education or lower English skills.

Who Is Affected

• All applicants for U.S. citizenship: Anyone applying for naturalization in 2025 and beyond will take the 2008 version of the test.
• Applicants with limited English or formal education: The decision to keep the current test is especially important for people who might have struggled with the proposed harder version.
• Legal representatives and community organizations: Those who help immigrants prepare for the test can continue using existing study materials and resources.
• Applicants with pending applications: If you already applied or are planning to apply soon, you will not face a new, harder test.

Effective Dates

• Late 2024 to July 2025: USCIS officially scrapped the proposed redesign and confirmed the 2008 test would remain in use.
• Ongoing: The 2008 test format continues to be the standard for all applicants.

Required Actions for Applicants

If you are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, here’s what you need to do:

1. Prepare for the 2008 naturalization test:
   • Study the list of 100 civics questions provided by USCIS.
   • Practice answering oral questions about U.S. history and government.
   • Work on your English reading, writing, and speaking skills.
2. Use official study materials:
   • USCIS offers free study guides, videos, and sample questions on its Citizenship Resource Center.
   • These materials are designed for the 2008 test format and are updated as needed.
3. Be aware of longer processing times:
   • Due to increased background checks and application backlogs, it may take longer to get an interview or decision.
   • Apply as early as you are eligible and make sure your documents are complete and accurate.

1. Check for updates:
   • While the test format is not changing, some answers (like the names of elected officials) may be updated after elections.
   • Always review the latest information on the USCIS website before your interview.
2. Seek legal advice if needed:
   • If you have questions about your eligibility or the application process, consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney or a trusted community organization.

Details of the Current U.S. Citizenship Test

The 2008 version of the US citizenship test includes two main parts:

• English Test:
  • Speaking: A USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application and background to check your ability to speak English.
  • Reading: You must read one out of three sentences correctly.
  • Writing: You must write one out of three sentences correctly.
• Civics Test:
  • You will be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. history, government, and symbols.
  • You must answer at least 6 out of 10 questions correctly to pass.
  • The questions are asked orally, not in writing or on a computer.

Background and Historical Context

During the Trump administration, there was a push to make the US citizenship test more challenging. Officials said the test was not tough enough and did not do a good job of checking if applicants really understood U.S. civics and English. In 2020, USCIS proposed a new test that would have included:

• A speaking section where applicants would describe photographs in English.
• A civics section with 10 multiple-choice questions shown on a tablet.

This proposal led to a lot of concern. Many people said it would make it harder for older applicants, people with less schooling, or those who did not grow up speaking English. After a trial and public comment period, USCIS received over 1,300 comments, most of which were against the changes.

By late 2024, USCIS announced it would not move forward with the new test. Instead, the agency would keep the 2008 version, which is seen as more fair and accessible for people from different backgrounds.

Recent Developments and Policy Implications (2024-2025)

While the test itself is not changing, USCIS has made other updates to the naturalization process:

• Stricter background checks: USCIS now checks social media and other records more closely to make sure applicants meet all requirements.
• Longer processing times: Because of these checks and a growing number of applications, it may take longer to get a decision.
• Updated application forms: The main form for applying for citizenship is the N-400, Application for Naturalization. USCIS updates this form from time to time, so always use the latest version from the official website.
• Regular updates to civics answers: Some answers on the civics test (like the names of the President, Vice President, or Speaker of the House) change after elections or appointments. USCIS updates these answers on its website.

Practical Effects on Applicants

For most people applying for U.S. citizenship, the biggest takeaway is that the test is not getting harder. You should:

• Focus on the current test format: Do not worry about new types of questions or technology-based tests.
• Use official study materials: These are designed for the 2008 test and are free to use.
• Prepare for longer wait times: Start your application early and make sure all your paperwork is correct.
• Stay informed: Check the USCIS website for any changes to the test or application process.

Key Stakeholders and Official Positions

• USCIS leadership: The agency says it wants to keep the process fair and open to people from many backgrounds, while still making sure new citizens understand U.S. civics and English.
• Public advocacy groups: Many groups that work with immigrants opposed the proposed changes, saying they would make it harder for people who already face challenges.
• Legal and education experts: Most experts supported keeping the 2008 test, saying it is a good balance between checking knowledge and being fair to all applicants.

Future Outlook

As of mid-2025, there are no plans to bring back the harder test proposed during the Trump administration. USCIS is more focused on making sure the application process is secure and that applicants are who they say they are. This means more background checks and careful review of applications, but not a tougher test.

Applicants should keep an eye on official USCIS channels for any future updates. The agency sometimes updates the list of civics questions or the answers, especially after elections, but the overall format of the test is expected to stay the same.

Official Resources and Contact Information

If you are preparing for the US citizenship test or want to learn more about the process, here are some helpful resources:

• USCIS Citizenship Resource Center: Offers study guides, videos, and practice questions for the 2008 test. Visit the Citizenship Resource Center
• USCIS Policy Manual (Volume 12, Part E): Explains the rules for English and civics testing. Read the Policy Manual
• USCIS Website for Test Updates: Lists any changes to civics test answers and provides the latest information. Check for Test Updates
• N-400, Application for Naturalization: The official form to apply for citizenship. Download Form N-400

Implications for Pending Applications

If you have already applied for citizenship or are planning to apply soon, here’s what you need to know:

• You will take the 2008 version of the test: There is no need to prepare for a new or harder test.
• Processing times may be longer: Be patient and check your case status online.
• Make sure your documents are complete: Missing or incorrect paperwork can cause delays.
• Stay updated: If you are waiting for your interview, check the USCIS website for any changes to test answers or procedures.

Advice for Applicants

• Start preparing early: Give yourself plenty of time to study the civics questions and practice your English.
• Use trusted resources: Only use study materials from USCIS or well-known community organizations.
• Ask for help if needed: If you have trouble with English or understanding the questions, many community groups offer free classes and support.
• Double-check your application: Before sending in your N-400, make sure all information is correct and all required documents are included.

Broader Impact and Analysis

The decision to keep the 2008 US citizenship test shows a commitment to making citizenship accessible while still checking for basic knowledge of U.S. history and government. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this approach helps ensure that the process is fair for people from many backgrounds, including those who may not have had the chance to go to school or learn English at a high level.

By focusing on background checks and careful review of applications, USCIS aims to protect the integrity of the naturalization process without putting up new barriers for honest applicants. This balance is important for building trust in the system and welcoming new citizens who are ready to take part in American life.

Conclusion and Next Steps

• No changes to the US citizenship test format: The 2008 version remains in use.
• Applicants should prepare for the current test: Use official materials and practice both civics and English.
• Longer processing times are possible: Apply early and make sure your application is complete.
• Stay informed: Check the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center for updates and new study materials.

By following these steps and using trusted resources, applicants can feel confident as they move forward in their journey to U.S. citizenship. The process remains challenging but fair, and help is available for those who need it.

Learn Today

USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency managing citizenship and immigration processes.
Naturalization test → An exam assessing English and civics knowledge to obtain U.S. citizenship.
Civics questions → Oral questions about U.S. history, government, and symbols asked during naturalization testing.
Background checks → Security reviews of applicants’ history and records before citizenship approval.
N-400 form → The official USCIS application form to apply for U.S. citizenship.

This Article in a Nutshell

USCIS canceled the 2020 citizenship test redesign, keeping the 2008 format. Applicants face oral civics and English tests, not multiple-choice or photo descriptions. Stricter background checks extend processing times, but fairness and accessibility remain priorities. Use USCIS study resources and apply early to avoid delays in obtaining U.S. citizenship.
— By VisaVerge.com