Reviewed as of November 8, 2026. Immigration rules change; check the official sources below for current information.
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization includes an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. At that interview, most applicants take two tests: an English test and a civics test about U.S. history and government. Both tests use free, published study materials, so you can know in advance almost everything you may be asked. This guide explains which test applies to you and how to prepare with confidence.
This article is general education only. It is not legal advice, and it does not decide whether any person is eligible for naturalization.
What the tests cover
The English test has three parts. The officer checks your speaking during the interview itself. For reading, you must read one of three sentences aloud correctly. For writing, you must write one of three sentences correctly. USCIS publishes the reading and writing vocabulary lists, so there are no surprises about which words may appear.
The civics test is an oral test. The officer asks questions from a published list, and you answer out loud. There is no written multiple-choice exam.
Which civics test applies to you
USCIS currently uses two versions of the civics test. The version you take depends on the date USCIS received your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, not the date of your interview.
- Filed before October 20, 2025: you take the 2008 civics test. The officer asks up to 10 questions from a list of 100 published questions. You must answer 6 correctly to pass.
- Filed on or after October 20, 2025: you take the 2025 civics test. The officer asks up to 20 questions from a list of 128 published questions. You must answer 12 correctly to pass. The officer stops asking once you have clearly passed or clearly cannot pass.
Because some applications filed before October 20, 2025 are still in process, both versions are in use at the same time. Before you study, check your filing date and confirm which list applies to you on the USCIS Check for Test Updates page.
Exceptions and special consideration
Some applicants qualify for exceptions or a shorter study list, based on age and years as a lawful permanent resident.
- If you are 50 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, or 55 or older with at least 15 years as a permanent resident, you are exempt from the English test and may take the civics test in your own language with an interpreter. The civics test itself is not waived under these rules.
- If you are 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you receive special consideration on the civics test. You study a shorter set of 20 questions, the officer asks up to 10, and you must answer 6 correctly. The shorter set matches the test version for your filing date.
- Applicants who have a medical condition that prevents them from learning or demonstrating knowledge of English or civics may ask for a disability exception using Form N-648, completed by a medical professional. This is a specific process with its own rules, so review the USCIS guidance carefully.
A step-by-step study plan
- Confirm your test version. Find your N-400 filing date and check the USCIS page for test updates.
- Download the official questions. USCIS publishes the full question and answer lists for both the 2008 and 2025 tests, in English and several other languages, at uscis.gov/citizenship.
- Study in short daily sessions. Many people learn best with 15 to 30 minutes a day over several weeks, rather than one long session.
- Use the free USCIS tools. The Citizenship Resource Center offers flashcards, pocket study guides, videos, and an online practice test.
- Practice out loud. The civics test is spoken. Say your answers aloud, and ask a friend or family member to quiz you.
- Practice reading and writing. Use the official vocabulary lists and practice one sentence at a time.
- Consider a local class. Many public libraries, schools, and community organizations offer free or low-cost citizenship classes. USCIS keeps a class locator on its website.
- Review before the interview. In the final week, go through the full question list once more and rest well the night before.
If you do not pass the first time
If you do not pass the English or civics test at your first interview, USCIS gives you a second chance. You will be retested only on the part you did not pass, usually within 60 to 90 days. Not passing the first time is common, and it is not the end of your case.
Practice questions to try now
- From the official 2025 list: What is the supreme law of the land? (The Constitution.)
- From the official 2008 list: What does the Constitution do? (Sets up the government, defines the government, protects basic rights of Americans.)
Try answering both out loud, then check the official study materials for the full lists and answers that match your filing date.
Keep learning with Center for Global Living
Explore more plain-language guides in our Citizenship learning hub, including what to expect at the naturalization interview. Have a question about our educational resources? Contact Center for Global Living. Share this article with someone who is preparing for their interview.
Sources
- USCIS Citizenship Resource Center and study materials
- USCIS: Find study materials and resources
- USCIS: Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
- USCIS: Check for Test Updates
- USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 12, Part E (English and civics testing)
Disclaimer
This article is educational information from Center for Global Living, a nonprofit organization. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules change, so confirm current requirements at uscis.gov or with a qualified immigration attorney or a DOJ-recognized organization.