If you are applying for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, it is important to know that the Civics Test will be updated for applicants who filed their case on or after October 20, 2025. The civics test is a required part of the naturalization process and ensures that new citizens have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government.
The Naturalization Process
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization involves several steps. To determine eligibility, one must consider having permanent residence for the required period, demonstrating good moral character, meeting continuous residence and physical presence requirements, and being proficient enough in English.
After determining eligibility, applicants submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Once the application is processed, USCIS schedules an interview where applicants must complete two key requirements:
- English Test – demonstrating the ability to read, write, and speak basic English (with certain exemptions for age or disability).
- Civics Test – answering questions about U.S. history, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
If you are worried about your English level or ability to pass the civics test, there are some exemptions and accommodations available. These include if you are 50 years old and have been a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for 20+ years, if you are 55 years old and have been an LPR for 15+ years, and if you are 65 years old and have been an LPR for 20+ years. If you have qualifying medical conditions, such as dementia, severe PTSD, or developmental disabilities, you may also be exempt. Read more about possible exemptions here.
If both tests are passed and the application is approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
What’s Changing in 2025?
Under the updated rules, the Civics Test will now entail 20 questions, rather than the previous 10. These 20 questions will come from a list of 128 possible questions—previously, there were only 100 total. As before, these questions will be asked orally by the USCIS officer during the interview. To pass, you must answer 12 questions correctly. If you answer 9 incorrectly, it results in failure of the test. The test will end early if you either reach 12 correct answers (pass) or 9 incorrect answers (fail).
This is a change from the current test structure, so new applicants need to prepare with these updates in mind. Applicants who filed their case with a receipt date of October 19, 2025, or earlier will still be tested using the 2008 version.
USCIS is also bringing back neighborhood checks for citizenship applicants, ending a 34-year pause to this practice. This means that immigration officers will conduct in-person visits to confirm the applicant’s eligibility for U.S. citizenship with the applicant’s neighbors, coworkers, or employers. This is to be conducted on a case-by-case basis, depending on how strong the previously provided evidence is.
With this new practice, it is recommended to consider including testimonial letters from community members with your application, rather than waiting for immigration officers to determine whether a neighborhood check is necessary.
How to Prepare
- Study the Full List of 128 Questions: USCIS provides study guides, practice questions, and flashcards to help.
- Practice Speaking Out Loud: Since the test is oral, rehearsing answers verbally can make you more confident. This will also allow you to demonstrate your level of English.
- Stay Calm During the Interview: The officer will stop as soon as you pass or fail, so focus on answering each question clearly.
- Use Free Resources: Take advantage of the official study materials provided on the USCIS website.
Why This Matters
Naturalization is a life-changing step that grants the right to vote, the ability to apply for certain federal jobs, and stronger protections against removal. For many, it represents the fulfillment of years of hard work and commitment to the United States. Understanding the updated test rules ensures that applicants are prepared for success.
At Hope Immigration, we are here to guide you through every step of the process—from filing your N-400 application to preparing for your interview.
If you or someone you know is planning to apply for naturalization, now is the time to begin preparing for the new Civics Test format that takes effect on October 20, 2025.