Particle.news
Download on the App Store
7 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

US Rolls Out Tougher Citizenship Civics Test as Trump Administration Tightens Naturalization Rules

New applicants face a 20-question oral exam with a higher passing threshold under rules taking effect Oct. 20.

An unidentified volunteer from the American Legion Auxiliary, left, holds U.S. flags to pass out during a naturalization ceremony for 25 people at the U.S. District Court for the District of Vermont in Rutland, Vermont November 17, 2015.
UNDISCLOSED LOCATION, CONNECTICUT – MARCH 29: An immigrant studies to take a U.S. citizenship exam on March 29, 2025 at an undisclosed location, Connecticut. She was attending a citizenship study group held at a non-profit community center. Many immigrants, including legal green card holders, have expressed extreme anxiety as the Trump administration enacts more stringent immigration policies, including mass deportations of undocumented people living in the United States. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
Image
Image

Overview

  • USCIS now applies the 2025 Naturalization Civics Test to Form N-400 filings made on or after Oct. 20, while earlier applicants remain on the 2008 test with study materials still available.
  • The updated exam draws from a 128-question bank, asks up to 20 oral questions, requires 12 correct answers to pass, and stops once an applicant either reaches 12 correct or records 9 incorrect.
  • Applicants age 65 or older with at least 20 years as lawful permanent residents receive a modified test of 10 questions from a special 20-question bank tied to their filing date.
  • The policy shift extends beyond the exam, with USCIS reinstating neighborhood investigations and stricter good‑moral‑character reviews and DOJ authorizing civil denaturalization actions for illicit acquisition or material misrepresentation.
  • USCIS frames the changes as protecting the integrity of citizenship, while experts and advocates warn the tougher test and reduced support for civics and English education could lower naturalization success rates.