The U.S. citizenship test is getting a significant update in 2025. If you plan to apply for naturalization (Form N-400) on or after October 20, 2025, you’ll face a significantly new challenge. These changes affect the civics portion of the exam and make the test more comprehensive than before. As an immigration law firm, we want to ensure you understand what the 2025 naturalization civics test entails and how to prepare for success.
In this post, we will break down what changed, who the new test applies to, the civics and English test requirements, special accommodations or exceptions (like the 65/20 rule citizenship test exception), and how to best prepare. By understanding the US citizenship test changes 2025 has brought, you can approach your citizenship interview with confidence.
Who Has to Take the New 2025 Citizenship Test?
Anyone filing N-400 after October 20, 2025 will take the new test. The date you submit your naturalization application determines which test you get:
- Filed before October 20, 2025: You take the current (2008) citizenship test, which has 100 study questions, up to 10 questions asked, and requires 6 correct answers to pass.
- Filed on or after October 20, 2025: You take the 2025 version of the test, with a 128-question bank and up to 20 questions asked, needing 12 correct to pass.
In other words, if you apply after October 20, 2025, prepare for the new, longer civics test. Those who apply before that date will still take the old test. USCIS uses the received date of your N-400, so planning your filing date is important.
What Are the New Civics Test Requirements?
The civics portion of the naturalization exam has changed significantly. Under the new 2025 format, the civics test is still an oral test, but it has more questions and a higher passing threshold:
- Study topics: The official study materials now include 128 civics questions covering U.S. history, the Constitution, government structure, and civic duties. Many questions carry over from the 2008 test, but some new ones are included as well.
- Interview questions: During your interview, the USCIS officer will ask up to 20 questions from the list. You must answer them aloud in English.
- Passing score: You need to get 12 out of 20 questions correct to pass. If you answer 12 correctly before reaching 20, the officer will stop the civics questioning because you have already passed. If you get 9 wrong at any point, the civics test ends and you fail that attempt.
- Content focus: There is greater emphasis on understanding American government and history. The test includes more questions about foundational principles and important historical events, and fewer about geography or trivial facts. Understanding the concepts behind the answers is more important than memorizing details.
- Format: The civics test continues to be an oral Q&A exam (no multiple-choice questions). You must respond with the correct information in your own words.
These changes mean that applicants must invest more time studying and truly understanding U.S. civics to pass the updated U.S. citizenship test.
What Are the Citizenship Test English Requirements?
A key part of the naturalization interview is demonstrating basic English proficiency. The citizenship test English requirements in 2025 are the same as before:
- Speaking & understanding: The USCIS officer will assess your ability to speak and comprehend English during the interview. There is no separate spoken test; instead, the officer will talk with you (often about your application and background) to ensure you can communicate in English.
- Reading & writing: You must read one simple sentence in English aloud correctly and write one simple sentence in English correctly. You have up to three attempts for each. The sentences use basic vocabulary (often about civics or daily life).
- Basic level: The English proficiency needed is basic – you do not need to sound like a native speaker. You simply must communicate at a fundamental level in English and understand simple questions.
Most applicants have to meet these English requirements unless they qualify for an exception, as discussed next.
Are There Any Exceptions or Accommodations?
Yes. Some applicants qualify for exceptions or accommodations to the normal test requirements based on age, length of U.S. residency, or health:
- 50/20 and 55/15 rules:
- If you’re age 50 or older and have 20 years as a lawful permanent resident, or
- Age 55 or older with 15 years as a resident,
you are exempt from the English test. You can take the civics test in your native language (with an interpreter). You still must satisfy the civics knowledge requirement.
- 65/20 rule:
If you’re 65 or older and have at least 20 years of permanent residency, you get the English exemption and a simplified civics test. You only need to study 20 designated civics questions (instead of all 128), and the officer will ask you 10 questions. You must answer at least 6 of those 10 correctly to pass. - Medical disability exception:
Applicants with a documented physical or mental impairment that makes it impossible to learn English and/or civics can request an exemption. A doctor must complete a special medical certification form to confirm the condition. If USCIS approves, the English requirement, the civics requirement, or both may be waived. - Other accommodations:
USCIS can provide additional help for disabilities, such as allowing a sign language interpreter or granting extra time for the test if needed. Applicants should note any accommodation requests in their application so arrangements can be made in advance.
These exceptions and accommodations apply to both the old test and the new 2025 test. If you qualify for one, be sure to take advantage of it to make your naturalization interview more accessible.
How Can Applicants Prepare for the Updated Test?
Preparing for the updated U.S. citizenship test is crucial, especially if you’ll face the new civics exam. Here are some tips to help you study effectively:
Use official study materials:
Start with the USCIS 2025 study resources. This includes the 2025 citizenship test study guide and the full list of 128 civics questions and answers. Make sure you’re studying the correct set of questions based on your filing date (the 100-question set if you filed before the change, or all 128 questions if filing after).
Understand the material:
Don’t rely on memorization alone. The new test covers more U.S. history and government concepts, so focus on understanding the Constitution, the structure of government, major historical events, and the core principles of American democracy. If you grasp why the answers are what they are, you’ll handle the questions more confidently.
Practice regularly:
Quiz yourself often on the civics questions and practice answering them out loud in English. Use flashcards or smartphone apps to reinforce your learning. If you’re not exempt from the English portion, practice your English daily—read simple articles, write short sentences, and speak in English about everyday topics to build your comfort.
Use community resources:
Take advantage of citizenship prep classes or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses in your community. Local adult education centers, libraries, and immigrant support organizations often offer classes that review civics questions and help improve your English. Studying with a class or group can provide structure and support.
Plan ahead:
Give yourself plenty of time to study. Avoid last-minute cramming by creating a study schedule that covers a few questions each day or each week rather than trying to learn everything at once. Starting early will help you absorb the material gradually and reduce stress as your interview day approaches.
By following these steps and using available resources, you’ll become more confident and ready for your naturalization interview. Passing the U.S. citizenship test takes effort, but with proper preparation, you can succeed even with the new 2025 changes.
The Importance of Legal Support
The 2025 citizenship test changes underscore the complexity of the naturalization process. The updated requirements can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If you’re applying for citizenship — especially under the new rules — it’s wise to seek guidance. An experienced immigration attorney can ensure your application is properly prepared.
At Siri & Glimstad, we have helped many clients navigate the naturalization process from start to finish. We can answer your questions about the 2025 test changes, immigration medical exam guidance, determine if you qualify for any exceptions, and assist with preparation strategies.
If you need support with your citizenship application, consider speaking with our immigration law team. With the right legal guidance and preparation, you can approach the new citizenship test with confidence and take the final step toward becoming a United States citizen.
