Study for the Test (2008 version)
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 Version)
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 Dec. 1, 2020, will continue to take the 2008 civics test at initial exam, re-exam, or N-336 hearing.
- Applicants who filed 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.
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 (*). 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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