Important Changes to the U.S. Citizenship Test
Are you planning to apply for United States citizenship? The U.S. government is updating the citizenship test soon. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared.
What is Changing?
- Those who file their naturalization applications on or after October 20, 2025, will take the new test, according to a notice from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- The new test will have more questions. You will need to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly, instead of six out of 10.
- The officer will continue asking you questions until you pass (12 correct) or fail (9 wrong).
- You will have two chances to pass the English and civic test before restarting the application process from the beginning.
What’s NOT Changing?
- The English language parts of the test (reading, writing, speaking, and understanding) are not changing.
Which Test Will You Take?
- The test you take depends on the date you apply for naturalization.
- If you apply before October 20, 2025, you will take the current test (the 2008 version). Under the old test, you will need to answer six out of 10 questions correctly to pass.
- If you apply on or after October 20, 2025, you will take the new, longer test (the 2025 version). Under the new test, you must answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly to pass.
What About the Special Rule for Seniors?
The rules for applicants who are 65 years or older and have been a permanent resident for 20 or more years are still in place. You will take a shorter test with only 10 questions and need to answer six correctly to pass. The questions will come from a smaller list from either the 2008 or 2025 test, depending on when you file.
How to Prepare
It is important to use the right study materials for the test.
- If you filed before October 20, use the study materials for the 2008 test.
- If you file on or after October 20, use the new study materials for the 2025 test.
USCIS released updated study materials, including:
- One Nation, One People: The USCIS 2025 Civics Test Study Guide
- The complete list of civics questions and answers. The number of questions has increased from 100 to 128.
What Should You Do Now?
- Think about if you feel ready for the current test or if you need more time to study for the new test.
- If you are working with an organization or legal service provider, talk to them right away about this deadline. They can help you with your application.
- Get the correct list of questions based on when you plan to apply.