U.S. Citizenship Test: What Will Change Starting October 2025

USCIS: Changes to US Citizenship Test Effective October 2025

Test will include 20 questions

Exceptions remain for applicants over 65

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that the naturalization test will be modified beginning October 17, 2025, when the new rules officially take effect after publication in the Federal Register.

While much of the structure remains, there will be significant adjustments affecting those who start the process after that date.

USCIS and US Citizenship Test 2025: Changes, Requirements, and What You Need to Know

1. Changes to the Civics Test

Until now, applicants studied from a 100-question guide.

Under the new rule, the guide expands to 128 questions. In addition, the actual test will increase from 10 to 20 questions, and applicants must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.

“USCIS believed and continues to believe that administering 20-question tests is necessary for a deeper evaluation of an applicant’s knowledge of US history and government, ensuring each test covers a broader range of topics,” the notification reads.

If the applicant answers 12 correctly, the test ends immediately. If they miss nine questions, they automatically fail.

The new format was tested in pilot programs with volunteers, conducted remotely and orally in preparation courses. Based on those results, USCIS adjusted both questions and answer options.

2. Who Must Take the New Test?

Anyone filing for citizenship 30 days after the official publication of the rule will need to take the updated exam.

The publication is scheduled for September 18, 2025 in the Federal Register.

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3. What Happens to Those Who Already Applied?

Applicants who submitted their request before October 17, 2025 will take the current 2008 version of the test.

USCIS confirmed both guides will remain available on its website so applicants can prepare for the exam corresponding to their filing date:

“USCIS will temporarily maintain the study materials for the 2008 Civics Test on its website to help applicants prepare, depending on the date of their naturalization application.”

4. Exceptions for Older Applicants

The regulation continues to provide a simplified version for older immigrants. Applicants 65 or older who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years will be evaluated with a reduced test: 10 questions from a 20-question guide(from either the 2008 or 2025 version).

Regardless of filing date, these applicants will only need six correct answers to pass.

The US citizenship test 2025 changes aim to provide a broader and more rigorous evaluation of civic and historical knowledge.

At the same time, they establish a clear transition for those already in process and preserve exceptions for older residents with long-term ties to the United States.

Source: Univision Noticias