USCIS Citizenship Test: Format, Passing Score and Practice
The citizenship test includes English and civics requirements. For Form N-400 filed on or after October 20, 2025, USCIS uses the 2025 civics test: up to 20 oral questions from a bank of 128, with 12 correct answers required to pass. Earlier filings generally use the 2008 test.
Published by CitizenshipShortcut · Founder: Marcus G. Bastawros, MBA · Updated
Which civics test applies to you?
Use your N-400 filing date, not simply the year of your interview. USCIS identifies October 20, 2025 as the transition date. Applicants whose filing falls before that date generally use the 2008 test, with a 100-question bank and a six-of-ten passing requirement. Check the USCIS instructions for your circumstances.
Age/residence and disability exceptions can change English or civics requirements. Do not assume that an exception removes both tests; use the official policy and seek qualified advice if you are unsure.
Sources: USCIS — 2025 Civics Test; USCIS Policy Manual — English and Civics Testing
How is the naturalization test different from an online quiz?
USCIS administers civics orally. Multiple-choice practice helps you learn, but your goal should be to recall an accepted answer without seeing choices. English speaking is assessed through the interview; reading and writing are separate requirements.
A five-question diagnostic can identify topics to work on. It is not a full examination or a reliable probability of passing. After the diagnostic, study every topic and rehearse out loud.
Sources: USCIS Policy Manual — English and Civics Testing; Official 128 Civics Questions and Answers (PDF)
What should you do before interview day?
Find your applicable test version, study the official answers, check current officials and review your own N-400 honestly. Mix civics retrieval with reading and writing practice instead of treating the interview as memorization alone.
- Confirm the bank and test version.
- Practice answers aloud without choices.
- Update state and elected-official answers.
- Use your appointment notice to prepare documents.
Sources: Form N-400 — Application for Naturalization; USCIS — Naturalization Test and Study Resources
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Frequently asked questions
How many answers do I need to pass the 2025 civics test?
You need 12 correct answers from up to 20 oral questions. USCIS stops when you reach 12 correct or 9 incorrect answers.
Is the real test multiple choice?
No. The civics examination is oral. Online multiple-choice games are study tools, not the examination format.
Does everyone take the 128-question version?
No. The N-400 filing-date rule and applicable exceptions determine the test. Earlier filings generally use the 2008 100-question version.
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