Sources
- https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/learn-about-citizenship/the-naturalization-interview-and-test
This is the official USCIS page detailing the naturalization interview and test process, including information about the civics test and what to expect during the interview. It is the most authoritative source for this information. - https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/2020test
This USCIS page specifically addresses the 2020 version of the naturalization test, providing context for the differences between the 2008 and 2020 versions, which is relevant to the blog post's discussion of the two test versions. - https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/educators/naturalization-information
This USCIS resource provides comprehensive information about the naturalization process, including eligibility requirements and test details, which supports the blog post's claims about the process and test requirements. - https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-12-part-j-chapter-4
This link directs to the USCIS Policy Manual, which outlines the legal and procedural details of the naturalization test, including retake policies, supporting the blog post's information about failing and retaking the test. - https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/questions-and-answers/100q.pdf
This PDF from USCIS contains the official list of 100 civics questions and answers for the 2008 version of the naturalization test, directly supporting the blog post's mention of the questions and answers for the oral test.
Key Points
- The Naturalization Test is mandatory for becoming a U.S. citizen, and passing it is required for citizenship.
- You don't need to be a green card holder before applying for naturalization.
- There are two versions of the USCIS test: the 2008 version and the 2020 version.
- Most applicants only need to know the 2008 version unless they filed between December 1, 2020, and March 1, 2021.
- Even if filed during the specified dates, applicants can choose to take the 2008 version.
- The oral naturalization test involves answering 10 out of 100 possible questions, with at least 6 correct answers needed to pass.
- If you fail the civics part of the test, you can retake it within 60-90 days.
- The website focuses on the 2008 version of the test.
- Sample questions and answers are provided to help applicants prepare for the oral test.
Summary
To become a U.S. citizen, applicants must pass the Naturalization Test, which includes an oral civics exam with 10 questions (from a pool of 100), requiring at least 6 correct answers. While there are two test versions (2008 and 2020), most applicants only need to study the 2008 version unless they applied between December 2020 and March 2021. If an applicant fails, they can retake the test within 60-90 days. The post also provides a list of potential test questions with answers and explanations.
Process of Naturalization
The Naturalization Test is part of the naturalization process that you must take and pass if you want to become a United States Citizen. You do not need to be a green card holder before applying to become a naturalized citizen.
You will not be able to become naturalized and gain your citizenship unless you pass the test.
Two Tests – 2008 and 2020
It is important to know that there are two USCIS tests. The first is the 2008 version, and the second is the 2020 version.
You only need to know about the 2008 version unless you filed your naturalization application between December 1st, 2020, and March 1st, 2021.
Even if you filed your citizenship application between those dates, you would still have the option to take the 2008 version if you choose.
Therefore, this website concentrates only on the 2008 version.
Oral Naturalization Test
The immigration officer will ask your naturalization questions orally during your naturalization interview. You will be asked 10 questions out of a possible 100 questions. To pass the civics part of the citizenship test, you must answer at least 6 of the 10 questions correctly.
Get Smarter on US News, History, and the Constitution
What happens to your application to become an American Citizen if you fail?
If, unfortunately, you fail the civics part of the naturalization test, then according to immigration law, you will have an opportunity to retake the test.
A letter will inform you of the next test date, which will be between 60-90 days from the first one.
Naturalization Test Questions
The following is a list of questions that you may be asked as part of the oral part of the citizenship process.
If you click on any of the questions then you will be given the answer as well as an explanation of the answer.
