One of the most unnerving components of the naturalization process is the citizenship test, which assesses understanding of United States history, government, and the legal system. Preparation is essential to building confidence and knowledge before taking the test. The test encompasses reading, writing, and civics sections, and throughout the test and interview, your proficiency in spoken English will also be evaluated.
Citizenship Test: Writing and Reading
These tests allow the officials from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to assess whether you know basic English: that you’re able to read, write, and speak it well.
The writing portion is composed of writing one of three sentences on a digital tablet. An officer will read a sentence out loud, and you must be able to correctly write one of the three to pass this portion of the test. This section tests your ability to write in the English language.
The reading test includes a digital tablet with three sentences, and you will need to speak at least one of the three correctly to pass this portion of the test. This demonstrates your ability to read in the English language.
Civics Test: Citizenship Exam Questions
During this interview portion of the citizenship test, a USCIS officer will ask 10 questions from a pool of 100. You must answer at least six of these questions correctly to pass. No multiple-choice safety net here; your answers must be spoken aloud.
Here is a sample of questions that could be asked:
- What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?
- What is the economic system in the United States?
- Who is in charge of the executive branch?
- Who signs bills to become laws?
- Who is the Governor of your state now?
- What is one responsibility that is only for United States citizens?
- How old do citizens have to be to vote for President?
- Who lived in America before the Europeans arrived?
- There were 13 original states. Name three of them.
- Who is the “Father of Our Country”?
Be sure to review the full list of civics questions provided by USCIS.
Study Practices for the Naturalization Test
Studying for upcoming tests and exams can be nerve-wracking, but showing up prepared helps alleviate some of those jitters. Several basic study practices might help you prepare for your citizenship test.
- Daily Review: Set aside time each day to review test questions and answers. Try this free online test practice website or the USCIS: Civics Test Study Tools app, which allows users to search for elected representatives by zip code and test their knowledge.
- Balanced Study: Be sure to familiarize yourself with all subjects of the tests: history, government, holidays, geography, and symbols.
- Language Skill Building: Give yourself plenty of opportunities to strengthen your English skills. Create homemade flashcards to practice writing skills. actively seek out English-speaking environments, and engage with native speakers. Watching English videos and reading articles or books in English can also be incredibly beneficial.
- Study Buddy: Find a study partner who can quiz you on various test sections, bolster your confidence, and keep you motivated as you prepare.
As you prepare for the final steps in becoming a U.S. citizen, try not to be intimidated by the required test and interview. With dedication and the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proud U.S. citizen.
About JFCS Pittsburgh Immigration Legal Services
Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) Pittsburgh offers a range of services and resources to community members in need of legal advice relating to immigration matters. For more information, please call JFCS Senior Services at (412) 422-7200 or visit www.jfcspgh.org/immigration-legal-services.