Key Takeaways
• The 2025 citizenship test includes an oral civics test with 10 questions; 6 correct answers are required to pass.
• USCIS officers assess speaking, reading, and writing English skills during the naturalization interview for citizenship applicants.
• No changes to the test format were made for 2025 after over 1,300 public comments opposed proposed harder questions.
When applying for U.S. citizenship 🇺🇸, one of the most important steps is passing the citizenship test. Many people wonder what to expect from the test in 2025, especially after recent discussions about possible changes. This guide explains the current format, what applicants need to do, who is eligible, and what practical steps can help you succeed. It also covers recent policy updates, expert opinions, and what the future may hold for the citizenship test.
What Is the U.S. Citizenship Test?
The citizenship test is a key part of the naturalization process. It checks if applicants have enough knowledge of U.S. history and government, and if they can speak, read, and write basic English. Passing this test is required for most people who want to become U.S. citizens 🇺🇸.
The test has two main parts:
- Oral Civics Test: Questions about U.S. history and government, asked and answered out loud.
- English Test: Checks speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Both parts are given during the naturalization interview, usually on the same day.
Format of the 2025 Citizenship Test
Oral Civics Test
The Oral Civics Test is the main way the government checks your knowledge of U.S. history and government. Here’s how it works:
- The USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions.
- You must answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.
- The questions cover topics like the Constitution, the branches of government, important historical events, and basic rights and responsibilities.
- The questions are asked out loud, and you must answer out loud.
- If you are 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you may study a shorter list of questions. These special questions are marked with an asterisk on the official list.
Example:
The USCIS officer might ask, “What is the supreme law of the land?” You would answer, “The Constitution.”
English Test
The English test checks three skills: speaking, reading, and writing.
Speaking
- The USCIS officer will talk with you during the interview to see if you can speak and understand basic English.
- You do not have to give a speech or answer special questions for this part. The officer will judge your English as you answer questions about your application and background.
Reading
- You will be given three sentences, one at a time.
- You must read one sentence out loud correctly to pass.
- The sentences are simple and use common words.
Writing
- You will be asked to write three sentences, one at a time.
- You must write one sentence correctly to pass.
- The sentences are short and use simple words.
Example:
You might be asked to read, “The President lives in the White House.”
You might be asked to write, “Citizens can vote.”
Summary of the Test Format
- Civics Test: Oral, with questions and answers spoken out loud.
- English Test: Includes speaking (judged during the interview), reading (read one sentence out of three), and writing (write one sentence out of three).
- The entire test is usually done during the naturalization interview.
- You get two chances to pass each part of the test for each application.
Eligibility and Special Rules
Who Must Take the Test?
Most people applying for U.S. citizenship 🇺🇸 must take both the civics and English tests. There are some exceptions and special rules:
- Older Applicants: If you are 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you can study a shorter list of civics questions.
- Disability Accommodations: If you have a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment, you may qualify for an exemption from the English test, the civics test, or both. You must file Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions) with your application. You can find the official Form N-648 here.
- Long-Term Residents: Some people who are 50 or older and have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as permanent residents for at least 20 years, or are 55 or older and have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as permanent residents for at least 15 years, may take the civics test in their native language. However, they still must take the civics test orally.
Important: Even if you take the civics test in your own language, you must bring an interpreter.
The Role of the USCIS Officer
A USCIS officer is the official who conducts your naturalization interview and gives you the citizenship test. Their job is to:
- Ask you the civics questions out loud.
- Judge your English speaking skills as you answer questions about your application.
- Give you the reading and writing sentences.
- Decide if you pass or fail each part of the test.
The officer will also review your application and may ask questions about your background, travel history, and other topics to make sure you meet all requirements for citizenship.
Recent Policy Updates and Test Changes
In late 2024, there was talk about making the citizenship test harder. Some proposed changes included more difficult questions and a new format. However, after receiving over 1,300 public comments—most of them against the changes—USCIS decided not to move forward with the new test.
Key Points:
- As of December 30, 2024, USCIS announced it will keep the current test format.
- The civics test will stay oral, with questions asked and answered out loud.
- The English test will still include speaking, reading, and writing simple sentences.
- No changes have been made for 2025.
This decision was welcomed by many immigration experts and advocacy groups. They said that making the test harder could unfairly hurt people who are older, have less formal education, or are still learning English.
Why the Test Format Matters
The way the citizenship test is given affects many people. Here’s why the current format is important:
- Oral Civics Test: Speaking and listening are often easier for people who may not read or write English well, especially older adults or those with limited schooling.
- Simple English Test: The reading and writing parts use basic sentences, making it possible for most applicants to pass with practice.
- Accessibility: The test is designed to be fair and not too hard, so that people from many backgrounds have a real chance to become citizens.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, keeping the test format the same helps ensure that the path to citizenship remains open to people from all walks of life, while still checking that new citizens understand important facts about the United States 🇺🇸.
How to Prepare for the Citizenship Test
Study Materials
USCIS provides free, official study materials to help you get ready for the test. These include:
- List of 100 Civics Questions: The exact questions you may be asked, along with the correct answers. You can find the official list on the USCIS Civics Test page.
- Reading and Writing Vocabulary Lists: Words you may see on the reading and writing tests.
- Sample Sentences: Examples of sentences you may be asked to read or write.
- Study Guides: Booklets and online resources to help you practice.
Practice Tips
- Practice Speaking: Ask a friend or family member to quiz you on the civics questions out loud.
- Read Aloud: Practice reading simple sentences in English every day.
- Write Sentences: Write short sentences using the vocabulary from the USCIS list.
- Use Flashcards: Make flashcards for the civics questions and answers.
- Watch Videos: USCIS offers videos showing what the interview and test are like.
Special Help
If you have trouble with English or need extra help, look for:
- Community Classes: Many local libraries, community centers, and adult education programs offer free or low-cost citizenship classes.
- Online Practice: There are many free websites and apps that help you study for the test.
- Legal Help: If you have questions about exemptions or special rules, talk to a trusted immigration lawyer or accredited representative.
What Happens If You Don’t Pass?
If you do not pass the civics or English test on your first try, you will get a second chance. USCIS will schedule another interview, usually within 60 to 90 days. You only need to retake the part you did not pass.
If you do not pass after two tries, your application will be denied. You can apply again, but you must start the process from the beginning and pay the fees again.
Real-World Examples
Example 1: Maria, Age 68
Maria has lived in the United States 🇺🇸 as a permanent resident for 22 years. She is 68 years old and speaks some English, but reading and writing are hard for her. Because of her age and how long she has lived in the country, she can study a shorter list of civics questions. She also qualifies to take the civics test in her native language, with an interpreter. Maria practices the questions with her daughter and passes the test on her first try.
Example 2: Ahmed, Age 35
Ahmed moved to the United States 🇺🇸 10 years ago. He speaks English well but is nervous about the civics questions. He uses the USCIS study guide and practices with friends. During his interview, the USCIS officer asks him 10 questions. Ahmed answers 7 correctly and passes. He also reads and writes the required sentences without problems.
Example 3: Rosa, Age 54, With a Disability
Rosa has a developmental disability that makes it hard for her to learn new information. Her doctor fills out Form N-648 to request an exemption from the civics and English tests. USCIS reviews her form and grants the exemption. Rosa is able to become a citizen without taking the tests.
Rights and Pathways After Passing the Test
Once you pass the citizenship test and meet all other requirements, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony. At this ceremony, you take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen 🇺🇸.
As a citizen, you have many rights, including:
- The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
- The right to apply for a U.S. passport
- The right to petition for family members to immigrate
- Protection from deportation
- Access to certain government jobs and benefits
You also have responsibilities, such as serving on a jury if called and obeying all laws.
Looking Ahead: Will the Test Change in the Future?
For now, USCIS has said there are no plans to change the oral civics test or the written English components. The agency will keep listening to public feedback and may consider changes in the future, but any updates would be announced well in advance.
If you are planning to apply for citizenship soon, you can be confident that the test will stay the same for 2025.
Where to Find Official Information
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the citizenship test, always use official government resources. The USCIS Citizenship Resource Center is the best place to find study materials, updates, and contact information.
If you have questions about your specific situation, you can also contact USCIS directly through their website.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 citizenship test is given as an oral civics test and a simple English test (speaking, reading, and writing).
- The USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 civics questions out loud; you must answer at least 6 correctly.
- The English test includes speaking during the interview, reading one sentence out loud, and writing one sentence.
- Most applicants must take both parts, but there are exceptions for older adults and people with disabilities.
- The test format has not changed for 2025, and no changes are planned soon.
- Official study materials and help are available for free from USCIS.
- Passing the test is a big step toward becoming a U.S. citizen 🇺🇸, with many rights and responsibilities.
By preparing with official materials and understanding what to expect, you can approach the citizenship test with confidence. Always check the official USCIS website for the latest information and resources.
Learn Today
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the government agency administering citizenship applications and tests.
Naturalization → The legal process to become a U.S. citizen after meeting residency and other requirements.
Oral Civics Test → A spoken test about U.S. history, government, and rights applicants must pass for citizenship.
Form N-648 → Medical certification form to request exemptions from English or civics tests due to disability.
Interpreter → A person who translates spoken language for applicants taking the civics test in their native language.
This Article in a Nutshell
The 2025 U.S. citizenship test remains an oral civics and basic English exam. Applicants answer 10 civics questions aloud and demonstrate simple reading and writing. USCIS kept the current format after public feedback, supporting accessibility while preserving standards. Official free materials help applicants prepare effectively for naturalization success.
— By VisaVerge.com
