In order to become an American citizen, you’re required to possess a knowledge and understanding of United States history and government. To demonstrate this knowledge, you’ll be required during the naturalization interview to take what’s known as the U.S. citizenship test. The test is given orally in English by an Immigration and Naturalization Service examiner and usually consists of five or 10 questions about America’s history and government. In some cases, you may be required to take a written 20-question multiple-choice test instead of an oral exam. With a few rare exceptions, you’ll be required to answer each question in English. Expect the test to last approximately 10 minutes. If you fail the exam, you’ll be given a second opportunity to pass the test within 90 days of your initial naturalization interview. There are a variety of publications available at your local library or bookstore that you can use to study typical questions found on the citizenship test. The Immigration and Naturalization Service even offers a standardized list of 100 U.S. history and government questions that examiners are limited to asking you on the test. Keep in mind that it’s possible to take the citizenship test up to one year before applying for citizenship. If you choose to take the citizenship test early, you must take it from the Educational Testing Service. You’ll be charged a fee, usually $30, for every time you take the test. The Immigration and Naturalization Service will accept the results from the Educational Testing Service if you pass.
