A big part of becoming a naturalized United States citizen is taking and, more importantly, passing the U.S. citizenship test. Unfortunately, many who long for naturalization put off applying for citizenship due to fears and worry about taking this essential step. Not everyone is comfortable taking exams, which is undoubtedly true for those who don’t feel their English language skills are up to par. If this sounds familiar to you, this U.S. citizenship test guide will tell you all you need to know about the exam, some tips, and who is exempt from the English portion of the test.
What is the U.S. Citizenship Test?
The U.S. Citizenship Test, sometimes called the Naturalization Test, is a key part of the process for becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen. It assesses an applicant’s knowledge of English and U.S. civics (history and government). The test is administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) during the naturalization interview.
The goal of the citizenship test is to ensure that new citizens have a basic understanding of the U.S. language, history, and government, helping them fully participate in civic life.
English Language Test
The English language test consists of three sections. Applicants will need to demonstrate a basic understanding of the English language.
- Speaking: An officer will assess your ability to speak English during the interview, based on your answers to questions about your application.
- Reading: You’ll be asked to read one out of three sentences aloud correctly to demonstrate basic reading skills.
- Writing: You’ll need to write one out of three sentences correctly to show basic writing ability.
Civics Test
This portion of the test is given orally by a USCIS agent. The USCIS website provides a list of 100 possible questions, and during the interview, you’ll be asked up to ten of them. Fortunately, to pass this portion of the test, you are allowed to provide up to 4 incorrect answers. The civics test questions cover topics like the structure of the U.S. government, important historical events, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
Exceptions to the English Requirement
Some applicants may be exempt from the English portion of the test based on age and length of time as a permanent resident (green card holder):
- The 50/20 Rule states that you may take the civics section of the test in your first language if you are at least 50 years old and have had a green card for the last 20 years.
- The 55/15 Rule states that you are eligible to take the civics exam in your first language if you are at least 55 years of age and have had your green card for at least 15 years.
- The 65/20 rule states that if you’re over the age of 65 and have held a green card for 20 years or more, you’ll only be asked 10 questions out of 20 that have been marked with an asterisk. You can also take the test in your native language.
If you qualify for these exceptions, you must bring an interpreter for the civics test if it is taken in a language other than English. The interpreter must be fluent in your native language and English.
- Medical Waivers: If you have a legitimate medical issue that affects your ability to learn English or civics, you may be eligible for a medical waiver using Form N-648. In such cases, the requirement to take the test in English (or at all) may be waived.
What Documents You Should Bring to Your U.S. Citizenship Test
When attending your citizenship test (part of the naturalization interview), you’ll need to bring several key documents to demonstrate your eligibility and provide necessary information. Below are the typical documents required for the U.S. citizenship test:
Appointment Notice
Your Form N-445 notice, which is the appointment letter sent by USCIS with the date and time of your naturalization interview and test.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Bring your Permanent Resident Card (also known as a green card). This proves your lawful permanent resident status.
Passport(s)
All valid and expired passports and travel documents you’ve used since becoming a permanent resident. USCIS may review your travel history and international trips.
State-Issued Identification
A valid photo ID, like your driver’s license or official state ID, to verify your identity.
Marriage Certificates and Divorce Decrees
If applicable, bring marriage certificates, divorce decrees, annulments, or death certificates of former spouses to document your marital history.
Proof of Military Service (if applicable)
If you’ve served in the U.S. military, bring any related documentation such as Form DD-214 (Certificate of Release and/or Discharge from Active Duty) or military records.
Certified Translation of Documents
Any documents in a foreign language must be submitted with a certified English translation.
Tax Returns
Bring copies of your most recent tax returns (Form 1040) to demonstrate good moral character, especially if requested by USCIS.
Proof of Selective Service Registration (if applicable)
If you’re a male between the ages of 18 and 26, you must bring proof of your Selective Service registration (or documentation explaining why you weren’t required to register).
Form N-400 Application Copies
Bring a copy of your completed Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) for reference during the interview.
Proof of Continuous Residence
If applicable, bring documents like rental agreements, utility bills, or employment records to prove you’ve maintained continuous residence in the U.S. for the required period.
Certified Court Dispositions (if applicable)
If you’ve had any legal issues, bring certified copies of court dispositions or documents related to arrests or convictions to clarify the outcome of any legal matters.
Affidavit of Support (if applicable)
If your naturalization is based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, you may need to show an affidavit of support or proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship.
Proof of Exemptions or Accommodations
If you’re applying for an English test waiver or disability accommodation, bring any required medical documents, such as Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).
Having all these documents ready and organized will help ensure a smooth interview process, improving your chances of success in your U.S. citizenship application. It is far better to bring too many documents than to be asked for something that you don’t have with you.
Tips for How to Prepare for the U.S. Citizenship Test
With a little effort, you can calm your nerves and be fully confident and prepared for when it comes time to take your Citizenship test. Here are some tips on how to ensure you do well.
Study the Civics Questions
Use the study resources that USCIS provides and learn the answers to the 100 potential questions you could be asked. Although you’ll only be asked 10 of these questions, you won’t have any idea which ones you’ll be asked. You’ll have to answer 6 of the 10 correctly to pass.
Practice Your English
You’ll be asked to to read one out of three sentences in English. These sentences will focus on U.S. civics and government. You’ll also be asked to write a sentence that the USCIS officer will recite to you. You can practice your English skills with friends and family to build up your confidence.
Review Your N-400 Application
During your interview, the USCIS officer will ask you some questions about the information you supplied on your application. It can be extremely helpful to review this information so that you are prepared to answer these questions with confidence.
Practice the Interview Process
Practice answering questions about your history and reasons for wanting to become a U.S. citizen in English. You can do this with friends or family members or by yourself. The key is to become comfortable answering basic questions in English.
Take Citizenship Test Classes
Many public libraries and community centers offer low-cost or even sometimes free classes to help immigrants prepare for the citizenship exam. These classes typically focus on the civics and English language skills portion of the test.
Relax and Be Confident
It’s important to understand that the citizenship test is solely to test your knowledge of basic U.S. civics and to see if you can communicate effectively in English. You’re not expected to be a scholar of U.S. history and government and you’re not expected to be fully fluent in the English language. Study, be prepared, and do your best.
U.S. Citizenship Test: Final Words
Taking that final leap to becoming a naturalized United States citizen can be a little scary. However, with the proper preparation, thousands of former green card holders have proudly taken the Oath of Allegiance. You, too, can do the same.
