Introduction: Understanding the U.S. Citizenship Test
If you are applying for U.S. citizenship, one important step in the naturalization process is passing the citizenship test. This test helps show that you understand basic U.S. history, government, and the English language.
The U.S. citizenship test is made up of two main parts:
- A civics testwhere you answer questions about U.S. history and government.
- An English testwhich checks your ability to read, write, and speak in English.
Most applicants take both parts of the test, but some have exemptions based on their age and time as a green card holder or certain medical conditions. These exemptions may allow you to skip one or both parts of the test.
The citizenship test is usually given on the same day as your citizenship interview. If you don’t pass on your first try, USCIS will give you a second chance to take the test within 60 to 90 days.
Important Note: After submitting your Form N-400, it may take several months to receive a notice for your citizenship interview and test. To learn more, check our detailed N-400 processing time guide.
Many people feel nervous about the test, but with the right preparation, you can succeed. In this guide, we’ll explain what’s on the test, how it’s given, what the passing score is, and how to prepare effectively.
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What to Expect During the Citizenship Test
It is very important for applicants to do well on the naturalization exam—also called the U.S. citizenship test—to become an American citizen. It’s normal to feel a little nervous, but don’t worry. With the right preparation and a bit of confidence, you can pass successfully. Remember, you’ll have up to two chances to pass the test, so the more effort you put into studying now, the sooner you’ll reach your goal of U.S. citizenship. (Be sure to check out the “How to Prepare” section for helpful tips.)
English Test: Speak, Read, and Write
The English portion is designed to evaluate basic language skills. It’s split into three parts: speaking, reading, and writing—all administered during your interview. You’ll use a digital tablet for the reading and writing portions, and the officer will show you how to use it before you begin.
Speaking Test
In this part, the officer will ask you questions about your Form N-400 (citizenship application). Their goal is to check how well you can understand and speak English. You won’t need to understand every word—just show that you can communicate clearly.
Tip: Review your application answers beforehand so you’re familiar with the questions.
Writing Test
The officer will read a sentence aloud, and you’ll write it using a stylus on the tablet. You may be asked to write up to three sentences, but you only need to write one correctly.
You’re allowed small mistakes in grammar, punctuation, or spelling, but your writing must be clear and understandable. Abbreviations aren’t allowed, and you should avoid leaving out words. Check the vocabulary words used in the writing test.
Reading Test
You’ll read aloud one sentence from a digital tablet. You may be asked to read up to three total, but you only need to read one correctly to pass.
Vocabulary will include common terms like “United States,” “Lincoln,” and simple phrases like “Father of Our Country.”
You can mispronounce or skip short words—but try not to pause too much. What matters most is that you understand the meaning.
Civics Test: Know U.S. History and Government
To pass the civics portion, you must answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly. These questions are spoken aloud by the USCIS officer and are chosen randomly from a list of 100 possible questions. The test stops as soon as you get six correct.
Topics include:
- The U.S. government (Congress, the President, the Constitution)
- American history (founding documents, civil rights, wars)
- Geography, symbols, and holidays
USCIS provides the full list of questions and answers, and in many cases, they’re available in multiple languages. If you’re age 65 or older and have held a green card for at least 20 years, you’ll only need to study 20 specific questions. USCIS provides official study materials, including the full list of civics questionsto help applicants prepare for the naturalization test.
Some answers will be the same for everyone—for example, “Who is in charge of the executive branch?” (Answer: the President). Others, like “Name one of your state’s U.S. Senators,” depend on where you live, so you’ll need to do a little research.
Your test experience may vary slightly based on your age, education, or background—but the USCIS officer will use fair standards to evaluate your knowledge and effort. Get ready for the test by practicing with our 100 U.S. citizenship questions and answers.
Helpful Tips on Citizenship Exam Preparation
Preparing for the U.S. citizenship test doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right strategies and tools, you can build your confidence and boost your chances of success. Here are some practical tips to help you get ready:
1. Start Studying Early
Give yourself enough time to prepare. Start reviewing the civics and English portions of the test several weeks—or even months—before your interview date.
2. Use Official USCIS Materials
USCIS offers free study tools, including:
3. Focus on the Civics Questions
You’ll be asked up to 10 civics questions during the test. To pass, you need to answer at least 6 correctly. Study all 100 questions to improve your odds.
4. Practice English Reading, Writing, and Speaking
The test includes:
- Reading one sentence in English
- Writing one sentence in English
- Answering personal questions from your N-400 in English
Use language learning apps, watch English videos, and practice with a friend or tutor.
5. Take Practice Tests
Simulate the test experience by taking full practice exams. This will help reduce anxiety and show you where you need improvement.
6. Know What to Expect
Understanding the test format and the kinds of questions you’ll be asked can make the process less intimidating. Read official USCIS guides and watch their interview preparation videos.
7. Stay Informed
Some questions—like those about elected officials—can change. Double-check you have the latest information by visiting USCIS.gov or calling their support line.
After Citizenship Test
Once you complete your citizenship test, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) usually gives you the results the same day. Here’s what happens next, depending on your results:
If you passed
Congratulations on passing the citizenship test. You are almost in the final process of naturalization. Next you will be scheduled for an interview and oath of allegiance and receive your certificate of Naturalization.
If you failed
If you fail the citizenship test, you’ll have the opportunity to retake the entire test with a different set of questions. USCIS will notify you of your second interview date within 60 to 90 days of your first attempt.
How to Proceed After Failing the Citizenship Test Twice
If you fail the U.S. citizenship test a second time, USCIS will deny your naturalization application. However, you still have the option to request a hearing on the decision.
To do this, you must file Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings, within 30 days of receiving your denial letter. If USCIS accepts your request, they will schedule a hearing within 180 days of receiving your form. Check our guide on “What Is Form N-336” and how to proceed with the USCIS.
At the hearing, a USCIS officer will re-test you only on the portion of the exam that you failed during your second attempt.
Note: If you miss your re-examination appointment, USCIS will consider it a failed attempt, and your N-400 application will be denied — unless you have been excused by USCIS, such as due to hospitalization or another valid reason.
Exempt Applicants for the U.S. Citizenship Test
Not all applicants are required to take the English or civics portions of the U.S. citizenship test. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers certain exemptions and accommodations based on age, time as a green card holder, and medical conditions.
1. Age and Residency-Based Exemptions [English Test]
You may be exempt from the English test but still required to take the civics test (in your language with an interpreter) if you meet one of the following conditions:
- 50/20 Rule: You are 50 years old or older and have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 20 years.
- 55/15 Rule: You are 55 years old or older and have been a green card holder for at least 15 years.
If you qualify under either rule, you are not required to take the English reading, writing, or speaking test. However, you must still take the civics test in the language of your choice.
2. 65/20 Special Consideration [Civics Test]
If you are 65 years or older and have been a green card holder for at least 20 years, you qualify for special consideration:
- You may take a simplified version of the civics test (10 questions from a list of 20).
- You may take the civics test in your preferred language.
3. Medical Disability Exception (Form N-648)
If you have a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment that prevents you from learning English or U.S. civics, you may be eligible for a medical exception:
USCIS will evaluate the form and determine your eligibility for the exception. An interview is still required, but the officer will not administer the tests if the waiver is granted.
Important Note: Applicants who are illiterate do not receive an exemption solely on that basis. However, they may still be eligible for a test exemption if they meet other USCIS criteria, such as age and residency or medical disability.
Requesting Accommodations for the Citizenship Test
If you have a disability or health condition that makes it difficult to take the citizenship test in the usual way, you can request accommodations from USCIS. These changes are meant to help you complete the naturalization process without unnecessary barriers.
Examples of accommodations include:
- Extra time to complete the test or interview
- A sign language interpreter for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
- The ability to take the test at home, in a hospital, or in a senior center if you cannot travel to a USCIS office
- Test materials in large print or the ability to respond verbally if you have trouble reading or writing
You can request accommodations if you:
- Have difficulty hearing or are deaf
- Have limited vision or are blind
- Use a wheelchair or have limited mobility
- Have a medical or developmental condition that affects your ability to speak, write, or understand instructions
To request these changes, check the box for accommodations in Part 2, Question 1 of Form N-400 and attach Form N-648 if you also want a medical exception from the English or civics test. USCIS will contact you to talk about your needs and make the necessary arrangements.
Requesting accommodations does not affect your eligibility for citizenship. It simply ensures the process is fair and accessible to everyone.
How Immigration Direct Will Help You Pass the Citizenship Test
At Immigration Direct, we make the naturalization process easier by providing step-by-step guidance, clear instructions, and helpful resources in plain language. Whether you need help preparing for the English or civics test, requesting an exemption, or applying for accommodations, our tools are designed to support you every step of the way.
With our user-friendly platform and expert-reviewed content, you’ll feel more confident and prepared to pass your citizenship test. No matter your situation, we guarantee you’ll be ready to pass.
