Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a big milestone but comes with its challenges. In this guide, we’ll show you the tests you’ll need to ace to make your citizenship dreams a reality, breaking it down so you can get ready and succeed.
Tests Administered
USCIS administers two main tests during your citizenship interview:
Civics Test:
This one checks your knowledge of U.S. history, government, and how things work here.
Structure
- The civics test includes 100 questions covering U.S. history, government, rights, and responsibilities of citizens. During the naturalization interview, applicants are asked up to 10 questions from this pool.
- To pass, applicants must correctly answer at least 6 out of 10 questions
English Language Test
It evaluates how well you can speak, read, and write in English.
Components
The English language test evaluates applicants’ abilities in three areas:
- Speaking: Assessed during the naturalization interview.
- Reading: Applicants must read one out of three sentences correctly.
- Writing: Applicants must write one out of three sentences correctly
Preparing for the Civics Exam:
USCIS provides a list of possible questions and answers which you can study beforehand. While it’s great to know as much as you can, during the actual test, you’ll only need to answer a set number of questions correctly.
There are 100 questions in total so to pass, you’ll have to get six out of ten questions right and just so you know, plans to make the test harder got scrapped in 2021. If you want to get your hands on those questions and find study materials, go to the USCIS website’s “Study for the Test” page.
Exceptions:
If you’re 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years not necessarily all in a row, you can take advantage of the “65/20 exception.” You’ll only need to study 20 questions, and during the interview, you’ll be asked 10. Get six right, and you’re golden. Plus, if you need it, you can have an interpreter.
For people with disabilities that make learning tough, there are waivers available. Your doctor can fill out Form N-648, explaining why your disability makes it hard for you to learn this stuff.
Getting Ready for the English Exam:
Being able to speak English well is a must for the naturalization process and during your interview, the USCIS officer will chat with you in English, ask you questions, and have you read and write a bit.
To brush up on your English, check out the Naturalization Test and Study Resources on the USCIS website. If you need extra help, look into adult education classes or online materials at your local library.
Waivers:
If you’re 50 or older and have been a green card holder for at least 20 years when you apply for citizenship, you can have your whole interview in your native language. Similar deal if you’re 55 or older and have been a green card holder for 15 years and just like with the civics test if a disability makes it tough for you to learn English, your doctor can fill out Form N-648 to explain why.
In conclusion, becoming a U.S. citizen means tackling these civics and English tests. Knowing what’s involved, understanding any exceptions, and using available resources can make the journey smoother. With some preparation and knowledge, you can confidently work towards your dream of being a U.S. citizen.
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