Studying for the U.S. citizenship test is a key part of preparing to become an American citizen. Here’s a guide to help you get ready.
What’s on the US Citizenship Test?
The U.S. citizenship test includes an English test and a civics test. The English test includes a speaking, reading and writing portion. The civics test is a 10-question quiz on U.S. government and history.
Have an accent? Don’t worry! The test does not require you to speak perfect English. If you have an accent, no need to try to get rid of it. The test portion is to quiz your basic ability to speak, comprehend, read and write English. Accent and basic grammatical mistakes will not count against you.
You may not have to take the test if…. There are two exemptions to the English language requirement, meaning, you do not have to take the test if either of the following applies:
You were age 50 or older at the time you applied for naturalization AND you have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 20 years or longer, you do NOT have to take the test.
- You were age 55 or older at the time you applied for naturalization AND you have lived as a permanent resident (green card holder) in the United States for 15 years or longer, you do NOT have to take the test.
The English Test
An important part of becoming a citizen of any country is knowing the language. The citizenship process requires applicants to know English. You must be able to speak, read and write basic English to pass.
Ready to start studying? This comprehensive study DVD will help you prepare for the U.S. citizenship test.
The Speaking Test
The speaking portion of the test occurs throughout the entire interview. As the USCIS officer is asking you questions regarding your naturalization (citizenship) application, they are also testing your ability to understand and speak basic English. Remember, you are only required to speak basic English. If the officer asks you a question you don’t understand, it’s OK to ask them to repeat it or rephrase it.
The Reading Test
The reading test requires you to read one sentence. You get three opportunities. To pass, you must demonstrate that you understand the meaning of the sentence. The basic guidelines that require you to pass are as follows:
- Read one sentence without extended pauses
- Read all content words but may omit short words that do not interfere with the meaning of the sentence
- May make pronunciation or intonation errors that do not interfere with meaning
The Writing Test
The writing test requires you to write one sentence. You have three chances. It’s OK to have spelling, capitalization, or punctuation errors so long as the sentence is still understood.
The Civics Test
To pass the civics test, you must answer six out of ten questions correctly. The questions are multiple choice. The questions are chosen from a list of 100 that are available to study beforehand.
US Citizenship Test Questions—and Answers!
Ready to start studying? The U.S Citizenship Test and Interview study DVD can help you prepare for the U.S. citizenship test. This DVD includes all the civics test questions and answers as well as helpful tips to help you prepare for the English test and the citizenship interview.
US Citizenship Practice Test
It’s possible to take a practice test for the U.S. citizenship test, specifically the civics portion. If you feel that you’re ready, check out this additional information on Tutorial for US Citizenship.
