When you seek to become a U.S. citizen, one of the main steps is to successfully pass the U.S. Citizenship Test. The English language test and civics test form a pair that is part of this naturalization test. This is how we will cover all about the test, how to prepare, and how to expect it below.
The US and the Two States. Citizenship Test
For U.S. citizenship, you have to take the English test and the civics test. Sometimes you might be waived from portions of the test due to your age, green card status, or a specific health condition.
What To Expect From The Test
The citizenship test has two parts: an English language test and a civics test.
1. English Test
There are three sections to the English test — speaking, reading, and writing. They will ask you questions to show that you can speak and understand English. Reading and writing are done on a tablet by an immigration agent.
- Speaking: The officer will have some questions based on your citizenship application, so you can practice speaking. Check your application before your interview.
- Reading: You’ll be asked to read sentences from a tablet. Don’t be a perfect pronunciator, just get the point across in the sentence.
- Writing: Write one sentence right as the officer reads it. It’s okay if something goes wrong (spelling mistakes) but your text should be legible.
2. Civics Test
The civics exam is American History and Government. And you have to get at least six of the 10 right if you want to pass. These questions will be on such things as US presidents, US Constitution, and government structure. For those 65 or older, and who have had a green card for at least 20 years, you only have to learn 20 questions, not all 100.
Tips to Be Prepared For the Test
Preparation is crucial for success. USCIS also has study guides to prepare you for the English and civics exams. Tips for Preparation:
- Early Studying: The earlier you start the more time you will have to get familiar with the content of the test.
- Use Children’s Books: A lot of the English test words are common and can be found in children’s books. That will give you practice with elementary English.
- Learn from Videos and Audio: Learn from videos and audio. These formats are available on the USCIS website in study guides.
- Get Advice: Have a family member or friend quiz you on civics or pronunciation (if you’re in English).
- Take Practice Tests: Get accustomed to the format by taking practice tests.
- Notes: Recall important concepts and terms so you won’t forget anything.
- Work In Small Steps: Don’t cram your work into giant chunks.
The Test and the Reunion: Now What?
The USCIS will let you know the results as soon as they get back from your test, the same day.
- If You Pass: Congratulations! — and now you’re a US citizen.
- If You Can’t Pass: You will be given a second attempt to take the test but the questions will be different.
- If You Can’t Make Your Re-examination: If you can’t make your second test date, then USCIS will count that as a failure and deny your application.
Exemptions from the Test
Some of the citizenship tests are waived for some applicants. These are due to age, green card holder’s time or conditions.
- Age and Green Card Experience: If you are over 50 years old and have been a green card holder for more than 20 years or over 55 years old and have held a green card for 15 years or more, you can skip the English test.
- Exemptions For Medical Reasons: You can get an exemption if you are medically excused from taking the test due to a condition. This could be physical, developmental, or mental.
Accommodations for Special Needs
- Special accommodations: If you are disabled and want to be assisted during the test, you can request an accommodation. USCIS, for instance, can give extra time, a different test site, or an interpreter. So, be sure to let USCIS know before your test if you need accommodations.
- The U.S. Citizenship Test: A part of the US citizen application process. If you practice, study hard, and anticipate it all, you can pass the test and be one step closer to U.S. citizenship.
