U.S. Citizenship Test Changes: What You Need to Know
One of the biggest concerns for citizenship applicants is whether the test has changed and which version they are required to take. Here is the authoritative breakdown.
Which Citizenship Test Will You Take?
Enter your details below to check which test version, question pool, and language exemptions apply to your naturalization interview.
Standard 100-Question Civics Test (2008 Version)
You will study the standard 100 civics questions. During your naturalization interview, the USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 questions orally. You must answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.
The 2008 Civics Test vs. The 2020 / Trial Revisions
The standard test currently administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the 2008 version of the civics test.
- Total pool: 100 questions
- Questions asked: Up to 10 oral questions
- Passing score: 6 out of 10 (60%)
- Format: Test stops as soon as you get 6 correct
- Total pool: 128 questions
- Questions asked: 20 oral questions
- Passing score: 12 out of 20 (60%)
- Applies only to applicants filing under specific revised policy periods
Key Rule: The test version you take is strictly determined by the filing date printed on your official USCIS Form N-400 Receipt Notice (Form I-797C), not the date of your interview.
English Speaking, Reading, and Writing Tests
In addition to the 100 civics questions, naturalization applicants must demonstrate an understanding of the English language through three components:
1. Speaking Test
Evaluated continuously from the moment you greet the officer. The officer evaluates your ability to understand basic instructions and answer questions regarding your Form N-400 application and background.
2. Reading Test
You will be presented with up to three sentences on a tablet or paper. You must read one sentence correctly aloud in English to pass.
3. Writing Test
The officer will dictate up to three sentences aloud. You must write one sentence correctly in English to pass. Minor spelling, capitalization, and punctuation errors are permitted as long as the meaning is clearly conveyed.
Age and Residency Exemptions (65/20, 50/20, 55/15)
Congress established special exemptions for older permanent residents who have held Green Cards for extensive periods:
- 65/20 Special Consideration: Age 65 or older with at least 20 years as a permanent resident. You only study 20 marked questions (*), need 6 of 10 to pass, and can take the test in your native language with an interpreter.
- 50/20 Exception: Age 50 or older with at least 20 years as a permanent resident. Exempt from English speaking, reading, and writing tests. Takes the 100 civics test in native language.
- 55/15 Exception: Age 55 or older with at least 15 years as a permanent resident. Exempt from English speaking, reading, and writing tests. Takes the 100 civics test in native language.