USCIS Announces Changes to the U.S. Citizenship Test — What Applicants Need to Know

Important Changes to the U.S. Citizenship Test: What You Need to Know

Introduction

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced plans to make significant changes to the naturalization (citizenship) test. These updates could make the process more challenging for applicants, both in the civics and English portions of the exam. If you are thinking about applying for U.S. citizenship, now may be the time to act before the new test is implemented. Immigration attorney Denise P. Cabrera, a certified specialist in immigration law by the State Bar of California, explains what these changes mean and how to prepare.

Background: Who Is Leading the Changes

The new USCIS Director, Joseph Edlow, has confirmed that the agency is preparing to update the citizenship test. This would be the second attempt to make changes—an earlier effort during President Trump’s first term was proposed but never went into effect.

What the Current Citizenship Test Looks Like

Right now, applicants are tested on 100 possible civics questions about U.S. history, government, and civics.

• During the interview, the officer asks 10 random questions from this list.

• You must answer 6 out of 10 correctly to pass the civics portion.

  
  

The English portion currently requires reading one sentence aloud and writing one sentence in English.

Planned Changes to the Citizenship Test

According to USCIS, the proposed updates would include two major changes:

1. More Civics Questions

• The question bank will increase from 100 to 128 questions.

• During the interview, you will now need to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly to pass.

  
  

This means applicants will need to study more material and achieve a higher passing score.

2. Harder English Language Portion

The English test will shift from simply reading or writing one sentence to a descriptive speaking exercise.

• The officer will show you a photo depicting an everyday scene, such as food, weather, or daily activities.

• You will be required to describe the picture in English using complete sentences.

  
  

This change is designed to evaluate spoken English skills in a more practical context, but it may pose challenges for applicants who are nervous or have limited English vocabulary.

When Will the New Test Take Effect?

As of now, USCIS has not announced an official start date for the new test. However, once implemented, all applicants interviewed on or after that date will take the updated exam.

Why You Should Apply for Citizenship Now

If you want to avoid the updated test, submit your citizenship application before the new rules take effect. The naturalization process can take several months from the date of filing to the interview, so acting quickly increases your chances of taking the current, easier version of the test.

Tips for Preparing for the Current or New Test

1. Start Studying Early

Begin your preparation as soon as possible. Use USCIS study guides and flashcards to familiarize yourself with the material.

2. Improve Your English Skills

Practice speaking, reading, and writing in English daily. This will help you feel more confident during the test.

3. Take Practice Tests

Utilize practice tests for both the civics and English sections. This will help you gauge your understanding and readiness.

4. Seek Legal Advice

If you have a complicated immigration history or criminal record, consider seeking legal advice. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there changes coming to the U.S. citizenship test?

Yes. USCIS has announced plans to update both the civics and English portions of the naturalization exam, making it more challenging for applicants.

2. How is the civics portion of the citizenship test changing?

The number of possible civics questions will increase from 100 to 128, and applicants will need to correctly answer 12 out of 20 questions during the interview.

3. Will the English test be harder under the new rules?

Yes. Instead of only reading or writing a sentence, applicants will be required to describe an image in English using complete sentences.

4. When will the new citizenship test take effect?

USCIS has not announced an official start date yet. Once implemented, all applicants interviewed on or after that date will take the new exam.

5. Should I apply for U.S. citizenship now or wait?

Applying before the new test is implemented may allow you to take the current, easier version of the exam.

Get Legal Help for Your Citizenship Application

Applying for U.S. citizenship can be a life-changing step, but navigating the process alone can be overwhelming—especially with upcoming test changes. Working with an experienced immigration attorney ensures that your application is filed correctly and on time, and that you are prepared for every step of the process.

Contact Denise P. Cabrera – Immigration Attorney in Santa Ana to schedule a consultation and begin your path toward citizenship today.

Contact Information

📍 Office: 3000 W. MacArthur Blvd., Suite 305, Santa Ana, CA 92704

📞 Phone: (714) 855-6741

🌐 Website: www.attorneydpc.com