Becoming a U.S. citizen is a major milestone, and one of the final steps is passing the U.S. Citizenship (Naturalization) Test. The test checks your knowledge of American history, government, and your ability to speak English.
This easy beginner guide covers everything you need to know — including sample questions, answers, format, and preparation tips.
⭐ 1. What Is the U.S. Citizenship Test?
The test is part of the naturalization interview conducted by a USCIS officer. It includes:
✔ English Test
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Speaking
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Reading
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Writing
✔ Civics Test
Questions about U.S. government, history, and rights.
You must pass both parts to become a U.S. citizen.
⭐ 2. English Test Breakdown
The English test has three sections:
A. Speaking Test
The USCIS officer evaluates your ability to speak English during the interview by asking questions about:
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Your background
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Your application (Form N-400)
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Personal details
No separate exam — they judge your spoken English live.
B. Reading Test
You must read 1 out of 3 sentences correctly in English.
Example sentences:
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“The President lives in the White House.”
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“Citizens can vote.”
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“The United States has fifty states.”
C. Writing Test
You must write 1 out of 3 sentences correctly.
Example writing tasks:
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“California is the largest state.”
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“The flag is red, white, and blue.”
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“The people elect the President.”
⭐ 3. Civics Test Breakdown (2025 Rules)
You need to answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly.
Questions are chosen from a list of 100 official civics questions.
Topics include:
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U.S. Constitution
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Government system
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History & wars
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Presidents
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Geography
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Rights & responsibilities
⭐ 4. Most Common Civics Questions & Correct Answers
Here are popular questions you are likely to be asked:
1. What is the supreme law of the land?
➡ The Constitution
2. Who makes federal laws?
➡ Congress
3. Who is in charge of the executive branch?
➡ The President
4. What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?
➡ The Senate and the House of Representatives
5. How many U.S. Senators are there?
➡ 100
6. We elect a U.S. Senator for how many years?
➡ 6 years
7. What did the Declaration of Independence do?
➡ Declared our independence from Great Britain
8. Who was the first President?
➡ George Washington
9. What movement tried to end racial discrimination?
➡ The Civil Rights Movement
10. When do we celebrate Independence Day?
➡ July 4
⭐ 5. What Happens During the Interview?
During your interview, a USCIS officer will:
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Verify your identity
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Review your N-400 application
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Test your English
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Ask 10 civics questions
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Evaluate your conduct & eligibility
If you pass, you move to the Oath Ceremony.
⭐ 6. U.S. Citizenship Test Passing Score
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You must answer 6 out of 10 civics questions correctly.
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You must pass all three English sections.
If you fail once, USCIS allows one retest.
⭐ 7. Tips to Pass the Citizenship Test Easily
✔ Learn from official USCIS materials
These are free and most accurate.
✔ Watch citizenship test videos
Many YouTube channels teach all 100 questions clearly.
✔ Practice English daily
Read newspapers, speak with others, write simple sentences.
✔ Bring all documents organized
Confidence matters.
✔ Relax — the officer is there to help
They aren’t trying to fail you.
⭐ 8. Who Is Exempt from the English Test?
You may be exempt if:
✔ Age 50+ and 20+ years as a green card holder
or
✔ Age 55+ and 15+ years as a green card holder
You still take the civics test but in your native language.
⭐ 9. After the Test: Oath Ceremony
If approved, you receive a date for your Naturalization Oath Ceremony.
After taking the oath, you become a U.S. citizen and receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
⭐ Conclusion
The U.S. Citizenship Test is simple if you understand the format and prepare the basic questions. With practice and confidence, most applicants pass on the first attempt.
