Preparing for the Naturalization/Citizenship Test

Studying for the Test:

During your naturalization interview, a USCIS Officer will ask you questions about your application and background. You will also take an English and civics test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver. The English test has three components: reading, writing, and speaking. The civics test covers important U.S. history and government topics. See below to learn more about the test and the free study tools available to help you prepare.

Speaking Test – Your ability to speak English will be determined by a USCIS Officer during your eligibility interview on Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

Reading Test – You must read one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to read in English.

Writing Test – You must write one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to write in English.

Civics Test – There are 100 civics questions on the naturalization test. During your naturalization interview, you will be asked up to 10 questions from the list of 100 questions. You must answer correctly at least six (6) of the 10 questions to pass the civics test.

You have two opportunities to take the English and civics tests per application. If you fail any portion of the test during your first interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed within 90 days.

Find Help in Your Community:

Many community organizations and social service providers offer citizenship classes and assistance with the naturalization process. Classes are often held in the evenings and on weekends. In many cases, these programs provide additional support and referral services as well.

If you need help with an immigration issue, you can use the services of a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative of a Board of Immigration Appeals recognized organization.

Other resources may be available in your community. The NALEO Educational Fund's directory of Citizenship Centers has a selection of service providers in each state.

Steps for Becoming a Naturalized U.S. Citizen

To apply for naturalization, you will need to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Be sure that you meet all eligibility requirements before you apply. Certain exceptions and modifications are available to those who qualify. Below you will find a general description of the application process. Items such as a naturalization eligibility worksheet and document checklist are available to help you prepare.

General Steps in the Process
• Determine if you are eligible to apply for citizenship.
• Download Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
• Complete your application.
• Have two passport-style photographs taken.
• Collect the necessary documents.
• Send your application package and filing fee to the appropriate Lockbox Facility or Service Center.
• Receive an appointment letter for biometric services from USCIS.
• Visit a USCIS fingerprinting location and have fingerprints taken.
• Receive an appointment for an interview with a USCIS Officer.
• Go to your local USCIS office at the specified time.
• Bring state-issued identification, Permanent Resident Card, and any additional documents specific to your case.
• Answer questions about your application and background.
• Take the English and civics tests.
• Await a decision on your case.

Naturalization – Becoming a Citizen

Naturalization is the manner in which a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. Before you apply for naturalization, you must meet a few requirements. Depending on your situation, there are different requirements that may apply to you. General requirements for naturalization are below.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
• Be a permanent resident (have a “green card”) for at least 5 years.
• Have lived within the state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over your place of residence for at least 3 months prior to the date of filing Form N-400.
• Have continuous residence in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400.
• Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing Form N-400.
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
• Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
• Be a person of good moral character.
• Demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.

Why You Should Become a Citizen?

As a permanent resident, you have most of the rights of U.S. citizens. However, there are many important reasons to consider U.S. citizenship. Citizenship offers new rights and privileges, but comes with equally important responsibilities. As a citizen you can:


• Vote.
Only citizens can vote in federal elections. Most states also restrict the right to vote, in most elections, to U.S. citizens.


• Serve on a jury.
Only U.S. citizens can serve on a federal jury. Most states also restrict jury service to U.S. citizens. Serving on a jury is an important responsibility for U.S. citizens.


• Travel with a U.S. passport.
A U.S. passport enables you to get assistance from the U.S. government when overseas, if necessary.


• Bring family members to the U.S.
U.S. citizens generally get priority when petitioning to bring family members permanently to this country.


• Obtain citizenship for children under 18 years of age.
In most cases, a child born abroad to a U.S. citizen is automatically a U.S. citizen.


• Apply for federal jobs.
Certain jobs with government agencies require U.S. citizenship.


• Become an elected official.
Only citizens can run for federal office (U.S. Senate or House of Representatives) and for most state and local offices.


• Keep your residency.
A U.S. citizen’s right to remain in the United States cannot be taken away.


• Become eligible for federal grants and scholarships.
Many financial aid grants, including college scholarships and funds given by the government for specific purposes, are available only to U.S. citizens.


• Obtain government benefits.
Some government benefits are available only to U.S. citizens.