What should you know about the naturalization test?

If you are not a native-born U.S. citizen, you may wish to become a naturalized citizen. As you likely already know, you will need to take and pass a naturalization test in order to do this. As explained by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the purpose of this reasonably simple two-part test is to make sure you understand the English language and know some basic facts about the American way of life. 

The naturalization test consists of an English section and a civics section. If you wish, you may take citizenship classes ahead of time to enhance your English skills and your knowledge of such things as U.S. history, governmental structure, national holidays, geography, etc. 

English test 

The English portion of the naturalization test consists of the following three parts: 

• Speaking test 
• Reading test 
• Writing test 

For the speaking part, a USCIS officer will simply interview you in English about yourself and your application to become a U.S. citizen. Keep in mind that his or her purpose is not to pry into your life, but rather to determine your ability to converse in English. 

The reading part consists of your reading three English sentences out loud to your interviewer. You need to read at least one of them correctly. Finally, your interviewer will ask you three questions in English. You need to write down the answers, and at least one of them must be correct. 

Civics test 

The civics portion of the naturalization test consists of 10 multiple-choice questions written in English. You will need to select the correct answer to at least six of them. 

Do not panic if you fail one or more test portions. You can retake the portion(s) you failed at any time within 90 days of the date on which you originally took the test. You can also attend or re-attend citizenship classes before retaking the test so as to improve your English skills and civics knowledge. Learn more about citizenship requirements.