What Changed in the 2025 Civics Test

The 2025 citizenship test changes went into effect for naturalization applications filed on or after October 20, 2025. The update modernizes how USCIS evaluates applicants’ knowledge of U.S. history and government, expanding both the scope and the difficulty of the civics portion.

Under the previous version, officers asked 10 questions selected from a list of 100. Applicants needed to answer 6 correctly to pass.

Under the new 2025 U.S. citizenship civics test, officers now ask 20 questions from a pool of 128 possible questions, and applicants must answer 12 correctly to pass.

The change is designed to make the assessment more consistent nationwide while ensuring applicants understand foundational principles of U.S. democracy. The updated test also comes with new study materials.

Who Must Take the New Civics Test

The new 2025 U.S. citizenship civics test applies to naturalization applicants who file Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025. USCIS determines which version of the test you take based on the date you submit your application, not the date of your interview or biometrics appointment.

If you filed your N-400 before October 20, 2025, you will take the previous version of the civics test, even if your interview happens after that date. Applicants who submit their N-400 on or after October 20 automatically fall under the new 2025 citizenship test requirements.

This change ensures a clear cutoff date for applicants and officers. USCIS has confirmed that there is no overlap or optional choice between test versions and that the applicable version is determined entirely by when your application is received.

The rule applies to most standard naturalization applicants, including those applying through marriage to a U.S. citizen or based on five years of lawful permanent residence.

However, certain groups may be subject to different testing requirements or exemptions, including:

• Active-duty or veteran military applicants filing under special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

• Applicants seeking medical or disability waivers under Form N-648.

• Individuals qualifying for age and residency-based exemptions, which may allow the test in their native language.

If you’re unsure which test version applies to you, you can confirm your filing date by reviewing your Notice of Action (Form I-797C) or contacting USCIS directly.

Is the New Civics Test Harder?

The new 2025 civics test for U.S. citizenship introduces more questions, but the overall difficulty level remains moderate for applicants who use the official study materials. The main difference is in length and scope, not complexity.

USCIS now selects 20 questions from a larger pool of 128, compared to 10 from 100 in the previous version. The passing requirement, answering 60% of the questions correctly, has not changed, but applicants must now recall more information during the interview.

While some applicants find the expanded question list more challenging, USCIS designed the 2025 test to simplify language and make it more consistent across testing offices. Many questions have been rewritten using clearer vocabulary and shorter sentences.

Some applicants, especially those who struggle with English or memorization, may need extra preparation time. However, the new study materials are designed to make learning easier through visuals, audio flashcards, and sample tests.

How to Prepare for the 2025 Civics Test

Preparing early is the best way to feel confident during your naturalization interview. The updated 2025 U.S. citizenship civics test uses a larger question pool and new study materials, so applicants should rely only on official USCIS resources to ensure accuracy.

Below are four key steps that can help you prepare effectively.

1. Download the updated 2025 study booklet and flashcards.

USCIS has released a new 2025 civics study guide that includes all 128 questions and answers used in the updated test. You can download the official booklet for free from the USCIS website.

Printed copies are also available at many community centers and libraries. The materials cover U.S. history, government, and civic principles, and they use simplified English to support learners at different language levels.

2. Take USCIS practice tests.

USCIS has released official practice tests for the 2025 civics exam, available online and through the USCIS mobile app. These tools use real questions from the new 128-question pool and mirror the format of the actual interview.

Some pages on the USCIS website may still refer to these as the “2008 version,” but the content and structure have been updated to reflect the 2025 test format.

Taking practice tests regularly helps applicants build confidence, track progress, and identify areas that need more review. Practicing aloud can also improve recall and comfort with spoken responses during the interview.

3. Review sample interview questions and vocabulary.

In addition to the civics portion, the naturalization interview includes an English-speaking and reading test. Reviewing sample interview questions and key vocabulary terms helps you prepare for both parts at once.

USCIS provides reading and writing vocabulary lists that include simple words used during the interview, such as Congress, President, or flag. You can practice answering questions aloud to improve pronunciation and comfort with conversational English.

4. Use online resources or local citizenship classes.

Many local citizenship preparation classes follow the same curriculum used by USCIS and provide interactive learning in small groups. Some online platforms, community colleges, and nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost courses that combine civics, English, and interview preparation.

Working with a trained instructor can be especially helpful for applicants who are nervous about the English portion or who learn best through group discussion and repetition.

Who Qualifies for Waivers or Language Exceptions

Some applicants are exempt from parts of the 2025 U.S. citizenship civics test or may take it in their native language, depending on age, disability, or length of permanent residence.

• Age and Residency Exceptions: Applicants age 50 or older who have lived in the U.S. as permanent residents for 20 years, or age 55 or older with 15 years of residency, can take the civics test in their native language.

• Disability or Medical Waivers: Applicants with physical, developmental, or mental impairments that prevent test participation may qualify for an exemption using Form N-648 completed by a licensed medical professional.

• Simplified English Option: Those who qualify for age-based exemptions can bring an interpreter to the interview, while others must complete the test in English.

USCIS applies the same waiver rules under both the old and new civics tests, and supporting documentation must be submitted with or before the Form N-400 interview.

Prepare Early and File with Confidence

The 2025 U.S. citizenship civics test brings a longer question set and updated study materials, but the path to success remains the same with consistent preparation and understanding the process before you apply.

If you plan to file your Form N-400 after October 2025, make sure you’re using the official USCIS study guide and confirming which test version applies to you. Starting early helps ensure your interview is smooth and stress-free.

Taghavi Immigration Law can help you review your eligibility, prepare for the interview, and explore language or medical waivers if needed.

Schedule a consultation and get personalized guidance on your naturalization process.