U.S. citizenship applicants must pass an English test and a civics test as part of the naturalization process. These tests assess your ability to read, write, and speak English, plus your knowledge of U.S.
civics and government. The specific civics test depends on when you file your application. A new civics test takes effect for applications filed on or after October 20, 2025, while earlier applicants take the original version. English requirements and accommodations vary by age and length of permanent residence.
Table of Contents
- The New and Original Civics Tests
- How the English Test Works
- Two Attempts to Pass
- Who Can Skip the English Test
- What Happens During Your Interview
- Frequently Asked Questions
The New and Original Civics Tests
Filing date determines which civics test you take. Applicants filing on or after October 20, 2025, answer up to 20 civics questions and must answer at least 12 correctly to pass. Those filing before that date answer 10 questions and need at least 6 correct to pass. Both versions test your knowledge of the U.S. Constitution, government structure, rights, and civic processes.
USCIS publishes all possible questions in advance, so applicants can study the exact pool from which their questions will be drawn. No surprises appear on test day.
How the English Test Works
The English portion has three parts: reading, writing, and speaking and listening.
- **Reading:** You read aloud one sentence selected by the USCIS officer from three provided options. You must understand what you read.
- **Writing:** The officer dictates one of three sentences, which you write correctly. Simple accuracy is the standard—grammar, spelling, and punctuation all count.
- **Speaking and listening:** Your ability to speak and understand English is assessed during your naturalization interview as you answer questions about your application and background.
Two Attempts to Pass
You have an initial examination and one re-examination interview to pass both the English and civics tests. If you fail any component on the first try, you get a second chance. Failing both attempts results in denial of your application, though you can reapply later.
Who Can Skip the English Test
Age and permanent resident status determine your eligibility for English exemptions. These exemptions recognize that longtime residents who are older often face greater difficulty learning a new language. The civics requirement remains unchanged for all applicants.
- **50+ with 20 years permanent residence:** You may be exempt from English testing but must still pass the civics test.
- **65+ with 20 years permanent residence:** You answer 10 of 20 civics questions—not the standard requirement—and may test in your native language.
What Happens During Your Interview
The USCIS officer administering your case will conduct your naturalization interview, during which the English and civics components occur. Your speaking and listening skills are evaluated naturally as you discuss your application, family history, and residence. The civics questions and English sentence samples come at designated points in the interview. You cannot bring study materials or take notes.
The officer will explain what you need to do before each component begins. If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification—the officer is listening for your ability to speak and listen, not to guess at unclear instructions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I retake the test if I fail once?
Yes, you have one re-examination interview to pass any failed component. Failing both attempts denies your application.
Is the civics test the same for everyone?
No. Those filing before October 20, 2025, answer 10 questions; those filing after answer up to 20. Applicants 65+ with 20 years permanent residence answer only 10 of the 20.
What if English is very difficult for me?
You may qualify for exemption if you're 50 or older with at least 20 years as a permanent resident. If you qualify, the civics test still applies, but you can take it in your native language if you're 65+. —