Key Takeaways
• The 2025 English citizenship test uses a fixed vocabulary list for reading and writing sections.
• Applicants must correctly read and write at least one sentence from up to three to pass.
• The test is tablet-based; official USCIS vocabulary lists are the best preparation resources.
When applying for United States 🇺🇸 citizenship, one of the most important steps is passing the English citizenship test. This test checks if applicants can read, write, and speak basic English. While many people focus on the civics questions, it’s just as important to understand the reading and writing vocabulary that forms the backbone of the English portion of the test. For 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has kept the vocabulary and procedures consistent with recent years, making it easier for applicants to know exactly what to expect.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the English citizenship test’s reading and writing vocabulary, including how the test works, what words you need to study, and practical tips for success. Whether you’re preparing for your own naturalization interview or helping a loved one, this information will help you feel confident and ready.
What Is the English Citizenship Test?
The English citizenship test is a required part of the naturalization process for most adults applying for U.S. citizenship. It checks three main skills:
- Speaking: Assessed during your interview with a USCIS officer.
- Reading: You must read at least one sentence correctly out of up to three sentences.
- Writing: You must write at least one sentence correctly out of up to three sentences.
The reading and writing portions use a set list of vocabulary words. These words are chosen to be simple and related to everyday life and U.S. civics. The goal is to make sure all applicants have a fair chance to show their English skills, no matter their background.
Why Is the Vocabulary List Important?
The official vocabulary list is the foundation of the reading and writing parts of the English citizenship test. Every sentence you are asked to read or write will use only these words. This means you don’t have to worry about complicated or unfamiliar words showing up on test day.
Key points about the vocabulary list:
- It is published and updated by USCIS.
- It covers words from several categories, including people, civics, places, holidays, verbs, and question words.
- The list is designed to be simple, clear, and relevant to U.S. life and government.
- Mastering this list is the best way to prepare for the English test.
Categories of Reading and Writing Vocabulary
The vocabulary for the English citizenship test is divided into several groups. Each group helps you get ready for different types of questions and sentences you might see on the test.
1. People
This group includes names of important historical figures and common terms related to people in the United States 🇺🇸. Examples include:
- Abraham Lincoln
- George Washington
- President
- Citizen
These words often appear in sentences about U.S. history or government roles.
2. Civics
Civics words are related to government, laws, and how the country works. Examples include:
- Congress
- Senators
- Government
- Vote
- Bill of Rights
You might see these words in sentences like, “Who can vote?” or “What is the Bill of Rights?”
3. Places
This category covers names of important locations in the United States 🇺🇸. Examples include:
- America
- United States
- Capital
- White House
These words help you answer questions about where things are or what certain places mean.
4. Holidays
Holidays are a big part of U.S. culture, so you’ll need to know the names of key celebrations. Examples include:
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
- Memorial Day
- Presidents’ Day
- Flag Day
- Columbus Day
You might be asked to read or write sentences like, “When is Thanksgiving?” or “What holiday is in July?”
5. Question Words
These are the basic words used to ask questions. Examples include:
- Who
- What
- When
- Where
- Why
- How
Knowing these words helps you understand and answer questions during the test.
6. Verbs
Verbs are action words. The test uses simple verbs that are easy to understand and use. Examples include:
- Can
- Have
- Is
- Are
- Was
- Be
- Meet
- Pay
- Want
- Live
You’ll see these in sentences like, “Who can vote?” or “Where do you live?”
7. Other Function Words
These are small but important words that help sentences make sense. Examples include:
- In
- On
- Of
- To
- The
- A
- And
They connect the main words and help you form complete sentences.
8. Other Content Words
This group includes extra words you might need for the test. Examples include:
- Dollar bill
- Colors
- First
- Second
- Many
- Largest
- City
- State
- States
- People
These words help you answer questions about numbers, places, and groups.
How the Reading Portion Works
During the naturalization interview, the reading test is usually given on a tablet at the USCIS field office. Here’s what to expect:
- You will be shown up to three sentences, one at a time.
- You must read at least one sentence out loud correctly to pass.
- The sentences use only the official vocabulary words.
- Sentences are simple and often relate to U.S. civics, holidays, or government.
Examples of reading test sentences:
- “Who can vote?”
- “When is Thanksgiving?”
- “What state has the most people?”
If you read the first sentence correctly, you don’t have to read the other two. If you make a mistake, you get two more chances.
How the Writing Portion Works
The writing test also takes place on a tablet. You’ll use a stylus or your finger to write your answers. Here’s what happens:
- The officer will ask you to write up to three sentences.
- You must write at least one sentence correctly to pass.
- The sentences are usually answers to the questions you read during the reading test.
- You must spell the words correctly and use basic grammar.
Examples of writing test sentences:
- “Citizens can vote.”
- “Thanksgiving is in November.”
- “California has the most people.”
If you write the first sentence correctly, you don’t have to write the other two. If you make a mistake, you get two more chances.
What Counts as a Passing Answer?
For both reading and writing, you only need to get one sentence right. The officer is looking for basic understanding, not perfect pronunciation or handwriting. Here’s what matters:
- Reading: You must read the sentence so the officer understands you. Small mistakes are okay if the meaning is clear.
- Writing: You must write the sentence so the officer can read it. Spelling and grammar should be correct, but small mistakes that don’t change the meaning are usually allowed.
Official Resources for Vocabulary Lists
The best way to prepare is to use the official vocabulary lists from USCIS. These are available as free PDF downloads on the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center.
- USCIS Writing Vocabulary PDF: This file lists every word you might be asked to write.
- USCIS Reading Vocabulary PDF: This file lists every word you might be asked to read.
These lists are updated as needed, but for 2025, no major changes have been announced.
Practical Tips for Test Preparation
To pass the English citizenship test, focus on these practical steps:
1. Study the Official Vocabulary Lists
– Print out the reading and writing vocabulary PDFs from the USCIS website.
– Practice reading each word out loud.
– Practice writing each word by hand and on a tablet if possible.
2. Practice with Sample Sentences
– Use the vocabulary words to make simple sentences.
– Read and write these sentences until you feel comfortable.
3. Get Used to Tablet Testing
– The test is now given on a tablet at most USCIS offices.
– Practice writing with a stylus or your finger on a tablet or smartphone.
– Watch practice videos online to see how the test works.
4. Use Free Practice Materials
– Many websites and YouTube channels offer practice tests and videos.
– Look for materials that use the official vocabulary list.
5. Ask for Help if Needed
– If you have trouble with reading or writing, ask a friend, teacher, or community group for help.
– Many libraries and adult education centers offer free citizenship classes.
Real-World Example: Maria’s Experience
Maria, a permanent resident from Mexico 🇲🇽, wanted to become a U.S. citizen. She was nervous about the English test because she didn’t use English every day. Maria downloaded the official vocabulary lists from the USCIS website and practiced reading and writing the words every night. She also watched practice videos on YouTube and wrote sentences on her tablet.
On test day, Maria was asked to read, “Who can vote?” She read it clearly. Then, she was asked to write, “Citizens can vote.” She wrote the sentence with correct spelling and grammar. Maria passed the English test on her first try and is now a proud U.S. citizen.
Who Is Exempt from the English Test?
Some applicants do not have to take the English reading and writing test. You may be exempt if:
- You are age 50 or older and have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as a permanent resident for at least 20 years (“50/20” rule).
- You are age 55 or older and have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as a permanent resident for at least 15 years (“55/15” rule).
- You have a qualifying medical disability that makes it impossible to learn English (you must file Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).
If you qualify for an exemption, you may still need to take the civics test in your native language.
How the Test Has Changed Over Time
The English test has always included reading, writing, and speaking parts. The vocabulary lists have been updated over the years to keep them simple and fair. In recent years, the biggest change has been the move to tablet-based testing. This makes the process faster and easier for both applicants and officers.
USCIS has not announced any major changes for 2025. The vocabulary and format remain the same as in previous years. Any future updates will be posted on the official USCIS website.
What Happens If You Don’t Pass?
If you don’t pass the English test the first time, don’t worry. You will get a second chance. USCIS will schedule another interview within 60 to 90 days. Use this time to keep practicing the vocabulary and sentences.
If you fail again, your application will be denied, but you can apply again in the future.
Rights and Pathways After Passing the Test
Once you pass the English citizenship test and the civics test, you are one step closer to becoming a U.S. citizen. After passing, you will:
- Take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
- Receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
- Gain the rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen, including the right to vote, apply for a U.S. passport, and sponsor family members for immigration.
Comparing the English Test to Other Countries
The United States 🇺🇸 is not the only country that tests language skills for citizenship. For example:
- Canada 🇨🇦 requires applicants to show English or French skills by taking a language test or showing proof of education.
- United Kingdom 🇬🇧 requires a language test and a “Life in the UK” test.
- Australia 🇦🇺 has an English test as part of its citizenship process.
However, the U.S. test is known for its simple vocabulary and focus on basic civics, making it accessible to people from many backgrounds.
Staying Up to Date
It’s important to check the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center regularly for the latest updates. USCIS is the only official source for test materials and announcements. If any changes are made to the vocabulary or testing process, they will be posted there first.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Applicants
- The English citizenship test’s reading and writing portions use a set list of simple vocabulary words published by USCIS.
- You must read and write at least one sentence correctly, using only these words, to pass.
- The test is now given on a tablet at most USCIS offices.
- Study the official vocabulary lists, practice reading and writing sentences, and get comfortable with tablet testing.
- If you don’t pass the first time, you get a second chance.
- Passing the test brings you closer to the rights and benefits of U.S. citizenship.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, focusing on the official vocabulary and practicing with real sentences is the best way to prepare for the English citizenship test. For more information and to download the official vocabulary lists, visit the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center.
By following these steps and using the right resources, you can approach your citizenship interview with confidence and take the next step toward becoming a U.S. citizen.
Learn Today
USCIS → The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, responsible for citizenship tests and immigration processes.
Naturalization → The legal process by which a non-citizen becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting requirements.
Vocabulary List → A set list of words applicants must know for the test’s reading and writing sections.
Tablet Test → A testing method using electronic tablets for reading and writing during the citizenship exam.
Exemption → A condition allowing certain applicants to skip the English test based on age or disability.
This Article in a Nutshell
The 2025 English citizenship test requires reading, writing, and speaking basic English using official USCIS vocabulary. Passing means reading and writing simple sentences on a tablet. Applicants benefit from studying official word lists and practicing tablet tests to confidently succeed in the naturalization interview.
— By VisaVerge.com
