Thousands of eligible immigrants become United States citizens each year, and there are often more who are hesitant to apply for citizenship because of the lengthy testing process. However, there are many resources within your reach to help you apply and prepare for the test. For those who are prepared and know what to expect from the process and test, 90 percent of applicants pass on their first attempt.
If you are considering becoming a U.S. citizen, you must take the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) naturalization test. Given in two parts, an English test and a civics test, you must be able to show that you have a clear understanding of the English language through speaking, reading, and writing. To gauge your abilities, you will be tested in the following manner:
English Test
- Speaking test: The USCIS officer will ask questions regarding your application and citizenship eligibility. The officer uses this process to determine your ability to understand and speak the English language.
- Writing test: The officer will provide you with three sentences, and you are required to write one sentence correctly to demonstrate your ability to write in English.
- Reading test: You will be required to read one out of three sentences correctly to show your English reading comprehension.
Civics Test
- The civics portion of the test, which covers the U.S. government and history, is given orally, and you will be required to give spoken answers in English. There will be 20 questions out of the possible 128, and you must answer 12 correctly to pass.
Am I Eligible to Take the Citizenship Test?
There are many steps toward acquiring your citizenship. To begin the process, you must file an Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) to determine your eligibility. The USCIS eligibility requirements are as follows:- Be at least 18 years of age at the time you file the application
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years, depending on which naturalization category you are applying under
- Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government
- Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
- Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance
How can I Prepare Myself for the Exam?
There are many options to study and prepare yourself for the exam. The USCIS offers study materials for the English and civics portions of the tests on its website, including multiple choice practice tests. It is recommended that you take advantage of these study materials and tests, being sure to take several practice tests. Some education institutions near you may offer immigration classes, or you may find local immigrant study groups.What Types of Questions Will I be Asked for the Civics Test?
The civics portion of the citizenship test covers American government, history, symbols, and holidays. Here are some sample questions in each: Government- What is the form of government in the United States?
- What does the Bill of Rights protect?
- Name the three branches of government.
- Describe one of the four amendments to the U.S. Constitution about who can vote.
- Name one reason why the Americans declared independence from Britain.
- What are five of the original 13 states?
- What territory did the U.S. buy from France in 1803?
- What did the Emancipation Proclamation do?
- Why does the U.S. flag have 13 stripes?
- The nation’s first motto was “E Pluribus Unum.” What does that mean?
- Name three national U.S. holidays.
- What is Veterans Day?
Could I be Exempt from Taking the Test?
Anyone seeking citizenship must take the civics portion of the test. However, there may be some exemptions from the English portion and potential special accommodations for the civics test. They are as follows: English Exemptions- 50/20 exemption: If you are over 50 and have held a U.S. green card for at least 20 years.
- 55/15 exemption: If you are 55 or older and have held a U.S. green card for at least 15 years.