One of the requirements for U.S. citizenship through naturalization is to take the naturalization test to demonstrate that you are able to read, write, and speak basic English and that you have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known as “civics”).

Once you have completed and submitted your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and you have had your fingerprints taken at a USCIS facility, you will receive an appointment for an interview. At your naturalization interview, you will be required to answer questions about your application and background. You will also take an English and civics test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver.

English & Civics

During your interview, a USCIS officer will test your ability to read, write, and speak English and your knowledge of civics.  You must read one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English, and you must write one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English.  Your ability to speak English is determined during your interview on your naturalization application.  Finally, you must answer 6 out of 10 civics questions correctly to achieve a passing score.

You will be given two opportunities to take the English and civics tests and to answer all questions relating to your naturalization application in English.  If you fail any of the tests at your initial interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed (English or civics) between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview.  See 8 CFR 312.5(a) and 335.3(b). 

If You Don’t Pass

If an applicant fails the English and/or civics test during the first examination, the applicant will be required to take the same version of the test, old or new, when the applicant is retested, even if the retest is scheduled on or after October 1, 2009.

Study Materials

We have developed a variety of study materials to help you learn more about U.S. civics (history and government) as you prepare for the naturalization test. See the “Study Materials for the Naturalization Test” link to the right.

Exemptions from English & Civics Requirements

For information on exceptions or modifications to the English and civics requirements for naturalization, see the “Exceptions & Accommodations” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.