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2d ago

USCIS Reinstates Longer Civics Test for Citizenship, Effective for New Filings in October

USCIS calls the move the first step in a broader naturalization overhaul focused on assimilation.

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A participant wears flags on their coat during a naturalization ceremony for new U.S. citizens at Seattle Center on July 4, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

Overview

  • The 2025 Naturalization Civics Test revives the 2020 format with a 128‑question study pool and requires 12 correct answers out of 20 to pass.
  • Officers may now stop the oral exam once an applicant reaches 12 correct responses or nine incorrect responses instead of asking all 20 questions.
  • The change applies to applicants who file on or after October 20, 2025, while earlier filers will continue under the 2008 test.
  • USCIS will publish study materials for both versions and maintain longstanding accommodations for qualifying seniors 65 and older with long-term residency.
  • The test revision is part of a multi-step tightening of naturalization reviews that includes resumed neighborhood checks and stricter evaluations of disability exemptions and good moral character.