USCIS is set to reimplement the 2020 Naturalization Civics Test, now called the 2025 Naturalization Civics Test, for naturalization applicants. This new test will take effect for individuals who file their naturalization applications on or after October 20, 2025. This change is set to be published on September 18, 2025, in a Federal Register notice.
This marks a change from the 2008 Naturalization Civics Test that is currently in use. USCIS believes the new test will better assess an applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history and government. The English language components of the test, including speaking, reading, and writing, will not change.
The 2025 Naturalization Civics Test will increase the number of questions asked during the interview from 10 to 20, with applicants needing to answer at least 12 correctly to pass. The total pool of possible questions will also increase from 100 to 128.
The new questions are designed to move beyond simple memorization and require more comprehensive thought. For example, instead of just asking “What is the supreme law of the land?”, a new question will ask, “Why is the Declaration of Independence important?”
During the interview, an officer will stop administering the test once the applicant has either passed (12 correct answers) or failed (9 incorrect answers). Unlike the 2020 version, where all 20 questions were asked regardless of early success or failure, officers will now stop after an alien answers 12 questions correctly or 9 incorrectly.
For applicants aged 65 or older who have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years, a simplified test will continue to be administered. These applicants will be asked 10 questions from a special bank of 20 questions and must answer six correctly to pass.
All applicants who file their naturalization application less than 30 days after the notice is published in the Federal Register will take the 2008 test. USCIS will provide study materials for the new test on its website, including the bank of 128 questions and their answers.
“American citizenship is the most sacred citizenship in the world and should only be reserved for aliens who will fully embrace our values and principles as a nation. By ensuring only those aliens who meet all eligibility requirements, including the ability to read, write, and speak English and understand U.S. government and civics, are able to naturalize, the American people can be assured that those joining us as fellow citizens are fully assimilated and will contribute to America’s greatness. These critical changes are the first of many,” said USCIS Spokesperson Matthew Tragesser.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
