Have there been changes to the US citizenship test?
Yes, there are. On September 17, USCIS announced a new version of the civics test. Well, “new” new? Not really. We’re actually reverting to the 2020 version, though with a few adjustments.
This news surprised many people, but it’s not entirely unexpected. Since December 2022, USCIS has announced plans to modernize the test, making it clearer and more consistent. In 2023, they launched a pilot program with a group of volunteer applicants to try out the proposed changes.
At that time, USCIS said the pilot program was over and that they wouldn’t change the citizenship test. But here we are, a few months later. Although they didn’t implement the exact version they tested, there are definitely changes now.
But don’t worry. Take a deep breath and relax. Today, we will explain all the changes to the citizenship test in detail, so you know exactly what to expect.
What are the new US citizenship test changes changes?
The current administration wants to reinstate many policies from the previous term, including the 2020 version of the citizenship test. The goal is to ensure that all applicants demonstrate a solid and consistent understanding of US history, government, and core values, as required by law.
The new test features a bank of 128 questions, which is more than the previous version. On the day of your interview, a USCIS officer will select 20 questions from this list, and you will need to answer 12 correctly to pass.
According to USCIS Spokesperson Matthew Tragesser, this is just the first of several updates aimed at further strengthening the integrity of the naturalization process.
The USCIS official page states that citizenship is “the most sacred in the world” and should be reserved for individuals who understand and share the country’s values and principles. For this reason, the selection process must be more rigorous.
When will the changes to the citizenship test take effect?
The changes to the citizenship test have not yet taken effect. The new test will take effect officially on October 20, 2025. This means that the date on which you submit your N-400 application will determine which test you take.
- If you submit your application before that date, you’ll take the current 2008 civics test. This version features 10 questions selected from a list of 100, and you must answer six correctly to pass.
- However, if you submit your application on or after October 20, you will automatically take the new 2025 civics test, which has an updated format and set of requirements.
So, if you’ve already submitted your application, don’t worry; the 2008 version applies to you. If you haven’t applied yet but are ready, take advantage of this time and submit before this date.
But if you can’t make it before that date, don’t stress about the citizenship test. At Citizen Now, we’ve got your back. We’re rolling out new practice tests to help you prepare for either version. No matter which test you end up taking, Citizen Now will help you pass.
What about the English test? Will there be changes?
For now, no changes have been announced for the English section of the citizenship test. The USCIS website only mentions the new version of the civics test. However, based on statements from a USCIS spokesperson, it’s possible that changes could come to the English test in the future. The exact words were:
“By ensuring that only those foreigners who meet all eligibility requirements—including the ability to read, write, and speak English and understand US government and civics—can naturalize, the American people can have confidence that those who join us as fellow citizens will fully integrate and contribute to the greatness of the United States.”
Therefore, we must stay alert for official USCIS communications. But for now, the English section remains unchanged.
Summing up
That’s it! Now you know what the citizenship test changes look like for 2025. There are now 128 questions to study, up from 100, and more answers to learn. On test day, the officer will select 20 questions from the list, and you’ll need to answer 12 correctly to pass.
I know this is a significant change, and it may be causing stress and anxiety, but don’t worry. This version was used in 2020, and many applicants passed. You just need to study a little more, and you’ll be fine. With Citizen Now, you have all the practice and support you need to feel confident and ready for the test.
Important: Many changes are coming to the overall process, so stay on top of news and updates from USCIS. That’s the only way to ensure that everything is in order. On the Citizen Now blog, you can find the latest news about the naturalization process in the United States. Check our blog regularly to stay informed about the latest updates on American citizenship and prepare for these changes.
What about in 2026?