To become naturalized U.S. citizens, permanent residents (green card holders) need to pass the naturalization test. The Immigration and Nationality Act requires applicants to establish that they know English and that they have knowledge of the U.S. history and government. To prove that, people who have filed applications for citizenship need to pass the naturalization test. This test includes two components, the civics, and the English components.
This test will be conducted at the naturalization interview, which is one of the most important parts of the U.S. citizenship process. During this interview, questions about the applicants’ applications and background will be asked. Followed by that, they will be required to take the English and the civics tests.
Certain exceptions and modifications to the naturalization test requirements are available to the elderly and to those who are physically or mentally impaired. People who qualify for waivers or exemptions may not be required to take the tests.
Applicants above age 50 and 55 may not be required to take the English test but will be required to take the civics test. They may be allowed to take the civics test in their native languages. Applicants above age 65 may be given special consideration regarding the civics requirement. Applicants who are unable to meet the naturalization test requirements due to a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment may be granted an exception to the English and the civics tests.
Prospective U.S. citizens can prepare for the naturalization test by making use of the study materials the USCIS offers. The agency offers study materials for the civics test and for the English test. Immigrants, who are yet to apply for U.S. citizenship and those who have already filed their applications, can use these resources to prepare for the tests.
USCIS gives the applicants two opportunities to take naturalization tests. Those who do not pass the English or the civics test at the initial interview will be permitted to take the test again. They can take the test again between 60 and 90 days from the date of their initial interviews.