US Introduces 128 Civics Questions for 2025 Naturalization Test

(U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) will roll out a new Naturalization civics test on October 20, 2025, replacing the 2008 version for applicants who file Form N-400 on or after that date. The updated exam features 128 questions in the study pool and an oral format in which an officer may ask up to 20 questions. Applicants must answer at least 12 correctly to pass; if they reach 9 incorrect answers before question 20, the test stops and is marked as failed.

USCIS notes that some answers may change over time—such as names of public officials—so applicants must give responses that are correct on the day of their interview.

Who stays on the old test and the “65/20” exception

Green card holders who submit Form N-400 before October 20, 2025 will continue under the 2008 rules. Under that system, officers ask up to 10 questions from a pool of 100, and six correct answers are enough to pass.

USCIS will keep the long-standing exception for older applicants under the “65/20 rule”:
– Applies to applicants 65 or older who have been permanent residents for 20 years or more.
– These applicants get a shorter, simpler civics exam drawn from a special subset.
– Crucially, they may take the civics portion in a language other than English.

The English language requirement otherwise remains unchanged unless an applicant qualifies for an existing legal exemption.

Why USCIS changed the test

USCIS frames the shift as part of a broader effort to modernize the naturalization process and standardize civics knowledge checks nationwide. The update also aligns with Executive Order 14161, per agency materials, reflecting a push to maintain the integrity of the U.S. citizenship process while keeping testing methods consistent across the country.

Although the format remains oral, the expanded pool of 128 questions raises the study burden for applicants.

Policy changes — quick facts

• Study pool: 128 questions covering U.S. government, rights and responsibilities, history, and national symbols.
• Interview format: Oral; officers may ask up to 20 questions.
• Passing score: 12 correct answers required.
• Early termination: Test ends and is failed if applicant reaches 9 incorrect answers before question 20.
• Retests: Applicants who fail the civics section still get two chances to retake the failed portion, consistent with current USCIS procedures.
• Timing: Filing Form N-400 before October 20, 2025 keeps you on the 2008 test; filing on or after that date triggers the new test.
• Age relief: The “65/20” group continues to receive a shorter civics exam option and can test in a non‑English language.

Timing of filing can decide which test applies. Some applicants may consider filing earlier to remain under the 2008 test; others may choose the new version to allow more time for study or English preparation.

Study implications and examples

The jump to 128 questions requires a broader study plan than the 2008 pool of 100. The new pool still focuses on the same pillars—how the U.S. government works, rights and duties, key moments in American history, and national symbols—but with added content that requires more detailed review.

The exam remains oral, so practicing clear, confident answers matters as much as memorization.

Sample questions and accepted answers from the new pool:
– “What is the form of government of the United States?” — Republic, Constitution‑based federal republic, or Representative democracy.
– “What is the supreme law of the land?” — The U.S. Constitution.
– “Name the three branches of government.” — Legislative, Executive, Judicial.
– “Who is Commander in Chief of the U.S. military?” — The President.
– “What major event happened on September 11, 2001?” — references the terrorist attacks.

Other familiar items remain:
– “How many U.S. senators are there?” — 100.
– “What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?” — Six years.
– “What is the highest court in the United States?” — The Supreme Court.
– History questions cover the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and 20th‑century conflicts (World Wars, Vietnam War).
– Rights-based questions address voting amendments, freedoms (speech, religion), and parts of the Oath of Allegiance (obeying U.S. laws, defending the Constitution).

Preparation tips and practical guidance

• Use official USCIS materials and practice tools; double-check current officeholders close to your interview date because answers may change with elections or appointments.
• The interview eligibility is decided by filing date, not interview date — file before October 20, 2025 if you want the 2008 test.
• Practice short, direct answers that match accepted phrasing. Extra details are usually unnecessary and can create confusion.
• Because the test is oral, practice with friends, family, volunteers, or classes. Short, repeated drills build recall and confidence.
• Keep copies of all application materials and bring requested originals to the interview. Filing online can speed some steps, but paper filing remains an option.

For official study resources, see the USCIS site: the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center.

Special considerations for different groups

• Older applicants under the “65/20” rule: USCIS will continue to draw 10 questions from a specialized subset and allow testing in a preferred non‑English language. This reduces stress for seniors who may have lived in the U.S. for decades but face language barriers.
• Legal service providers and clinics: Expect increased demand in the weeks before October 20, 2025, as clients seek to file early. Consider expanding workshop hours and updating lesson plans.
• Educators and ESL programs: Update class materials to cover the new 128 questions and the oral format.
• Applicants with disabilities: Request reasonable accommodations well before the interview to ensure needs are met during the oral test.
• Families and employers: Coordinate filing dates if you want cases processed under the same test rules.

Retakes, appeals, and policy outlook

• Applicants who fail the civics portion will continue to have two chances to retake the failed part, providing a safety net.
• Advocates and policymakers will monitor denial rates and retest outcomes after the switch, since debates about fairness and shared civic knowledge continue.
• Given that answers can change with elections, applicants interviewing near election season should allow time to review current officeholder answers shortly before their appointment.

Key takeaway: plan your filing date carefully, study the 128 questions using official materials, and practice clear, short oral answers. If you qualify for the “65/20” exception, request the language option and review the special subset of questions. If you prefer the 2008 version, submit Form N-400 before October 20, 2025 and retain proof of timely filing.

Where to file and further eligibility reminders

• The naturalization application is Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. The form and instructions are available at the USCIS site: Form N-400.
• Before filing, review eligibility requirements: physical presence and continuous residence rules, good moral character, and any applicable English or civics exemptions.
• If you have questions about filing, deadlines, or accommodations, consult a legal service provider or accredited immigration counselor.

Plan, practice, and verify answers close to your interview date to avoid surprises.