One of the key steps to becoming a citizen of the United States is passing the US Citizenship Test.
This exam is conducted by USCIS to assess the applicant’s knowledge of US history, government, and civic responsibilities.
US Citizenship Test: What You Need to Know
Here’s a deeper look at the US Citizenship Test, precisely the steps and what you can expect:
The Application Process
- Eligibility: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria for naturalization. This usually includes:
- Being a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for a specified time period (usually 5 years, 3 years if married to a US citizen).
- Continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
- Good moral character.
- Basic understanding of U.S. history and government.
- Ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
- File Form N-400: Submit the officially titled “Application for Naturalization”. Do this carefully and include all required supporting documents.
- Biometrics: You’ll be asked to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature.
US Citizenship Test and Interview
- Notice to Appear: You’ll receive a notice with your interview date, time, and location.
- The Interview: This is where the real exam happens. This exam has two parts: an English test and a civics test. Both are administered by a USCIS officer during your US Citizenship Test Interview. A USCIS officer will:
- Verify your application information.
- Assess your English skills through conversation.
- Conduct the civics test by asking up to 10 questions from the official list of 100.
English Test
- This estimates your basic understanding of spoken and written English.
- The USCIS officer will assess your ability during the interview itself.
- You must read one out of three sentences to pass the reading test.
- Similarly, you must write one out of three sentences correctly to pass the writing test.
Civics Test
- This is an oral test. The officer will ask you up to 10 questions from a pool of 100 civics questions.
- These questions cover American history, government, and foundational laws.
- You must correctly answer 6 out of 10 questions to pass the civics portion.
- You can find 100 questions and answers on the USCIS website given below.
Important things to remember:
- Currently, the civics test is based on the 2008 version, but a new version might be implemented in the future.
- Some answers may change due to elections or appointments, so ensure you have the most updated information when studying.
- USCIS provides free resources to help you prepare for the English and civics test [USCIS citizenship test prep].
- There might be exemptions to the English and/or civics tests based on your age and length of time as a permanent resident.
- If you don’t pass on the first try, you’ll get a chance to retake the portions you failed within a certain period.
Where to find Help?
- USCIS Website: The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (https://www.uscis.gov/) website has a vast amount of information, including:
- Community Classes: Many community organizations and adult education centers offer naturalization classes to help you prepare.
- The full list of 100 civics questions and answers (https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/questions-and-answers/100q.pdf)