US Citizenship Test Becomes More Difficult for Green Card Holders with New Civics Exam

The path to American citizenship is getting harder. Green card holders applying for naturalization will soon face a more difficult civics test. This significant change takes effect in October 2025.

The new exam will require applicants to answer twice as many questions correctly. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure new citizens have a deep understanding of American history and government.

Stricter Requirements for Future Americans

According to a Federal Register notice from US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the new rules start on October 20, 2025. Applicants filing Form N-400 on or after that date will take the updated 2025 test. Those who apply before the deadline will take the older, 2008 version.

The 2025 Naturalization Civics Test will include 20 questions from a pool of 128. Applicants must answer 12 questions correctly to pass. Failing 9 questions results in an automatic failure.

The test is oral and conducted by a USCIS officer. Officers stop asking questions once an applicant has either passed or failed. This formalizes a more rigorous standard for gaining citizenship.

Broader Context of Citizenship Scrutiny

This policy shift occurs alongside increased government focus on citizenship integrity. The US Department of Justice is prioritizing the revocation of citizenship in certain cases. This action targets individuals who obtained citizenship through fraud or misrepresentation.

Even minor omissions, like failing to report income on a tax return, could potentially lead to denaturalization. This highlights the heightened scrutiny facing immigrants throughout the entire process. The government aims to ensure that citizenship is acquired lawfully and represents a commitment to American values.

The updated 2025 US citizenship test represents a major hurdle for prospective Americans. It demands greater knowledge and preparation from green card holders. This change will likely shape the naturalization landscape for years to come.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Who has to take the new 2025 US citizenship test?

The new test applies to all green card holders who submit their Form N-400 application for naturalization on or after October 20, 2025. Applicants filing before that date will take the older 2008 test.

Q2: How is the new civics test different from the old one?

The new test requires applicants to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly. The previous test required 6 out of 10 correct answers. The question pool has also been expanded.

Q3: What happens if I fail the US citizenship test?

You will fail if you answer 9 questions incorrectly. You can retake the test, however. USCIS will schedule a re-examination appointment typically within 60 to 90 days.

Q4: Are there any exceptions for older applicants?

Yes. Applicants aged 65 or older who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years have special consideration. They can take a simpler version of the test in their preferred language.

Q5: Why is the US government making the test harder?

The change aims to ensure new citizens have a comprehensive understanding of American civics. It is part of a broader effort to uphold the integrity of the naturalization process.

Trusted Sources

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Federal Register, Department of Justice.