Study for the Test (2008 version)
New Resources released in connection with Constitution Day and Citizenship Day!
USCIS is pleased to announce the following new resources are now available:
Two-Generational Family Approaches to Citizenship (PDF, 170.13 KB) - This tip sheet highlights ways K-12 schools and adult citizenship education programs can engage the entire family through civics education.
N-400 Topic Exercises: Oath of Allegiance (PDF, 1 MB) - This educational handout describes the key principles found in the Oath of Allegiance that applicants take at their naturalization ceremonies.
A More Perfect Union: The USCIS Civics Test Guide to the Monuments and Memorials on the National Mall (PDF, 2.66 MB) is a series of 13 interactive resources that allows applicants to learn about the individuals and events represented by the monuments and memorials in Washington, DC, while studying for the naturalization civics test. The Civics Test Guide to Constitution Gardens is the first in the series to be released, and it highlights the naturalization civics test questions relating to the principles and structures of government and the rights and responsibilities of citizens that are identified in the U.S. Constitution.
National Park Service Expedition Series (Video) - Developed for students by the National Parks Service, this fun and informative five-part video series explores the history and significance of Ellis Island.
Before your naturalization interview, study for the English and civics test by using our free resources to help you prepare.
Test Overview
For the English portion of the naturalization test you must demonstrate an understanding of the English language, including the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
- Your ability to speak and understand English will be determined by a USCIS officer during your eligibility interview on Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- For the reading test, you must read out loud one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to read in English.
- For the writing test, you must write one out of the three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to write in English.
Civics Test
2008 Civics Test
The 2008 version of the civics test is an oral test, and the USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 questions from the list of 100 civics test questions. You must answer 6 questions correctly to pass the 2008 version of the civics test.
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- Applicants who filed their Form N-400 before December 1, 2020, will continue to take the 2008 civics test at initial exam, re-exam, or N-336 hearing.
- Applicants who file their Form N-400 on or after March 1, 2021 will also take the 2008 civics test at initial exam, re-exam, or N-336 hearing.
2020 Civics Test
The 2020 version of the civics test is an oral test, and the USCIS officer will ask you 20 questions from the list of 128 civics test questions. You must answer at least 12 of the 20 questions correctly to pass the 2020 version of the civics test.
- Applicants who filed their Form N-400 on or after Dec. 1, 2020, and before March 1, 2021, with an initial examination (interview) before April 19, 2021, will have the option to take either the 2020 civics test, or the 2008 civics test at initial exam, re-exam, or N-336 hearing.
There will be a transition period where both tests are being offered.
Note: USCIS will administer the 2008 civics test to all applicants whose initial examination (interview) is scheduled to occur on or after April 19, 2021 (regardless of filing date).
For more information, refer to the USCIS Policy Manual Volume 12, Part E, English and Civics Testing and Exceptions, Chapter 2, English and Civics Testing.
65/20 Special Consideration
If you are 65 years old or older and have been living in the United States as a lawful permanent resident of the United States for 20 or more years, you may study just the 20 questions that have been marked with an asterisk (*) found at the end of each question. You may also take the naturalization test in the language of your choice. For more information, see exceptions and accommodations or the USCIS Policy Manual Citizenship and Naturalization Guidance.
Note: On the naturalization test, some answers may change because of elections or appointments. You must answer the question with the name of the official serving at the time of your naturalization interview. For the answers to these specific questions, please visit the Civics Test Updates page.
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Search below for civics flash cards, interactive practice tests, study booklets, videos and more. You may purchase USCIS products and publications from the U.S. Government Bookstore.