USCIS has announced important changes to the civics portion of the naturalization exam. Beginning soon, applicants will no longer take the 2008 version of the test when attending their Citizenship Interview. Instead, USCIS will roll out what it is calling the 2025 Naturalization Civics Test—a modified version of the 2020 exam.
What Is Changing
- Question bank: USCIS will use the set of 128 civics questions developed for the 2020 test. USCIS will provide updated study materials for the new version soon, but will keep 2008 materials available during the transition.
- Number of questions asked: Officers will ask up to 20 civics questions out of the 128. The exam will stop early if the applicant passes (12 correct answers) or cannot pass (9 incorrect answers).
- Special consideration cases: Applicants age 65 or older who have held green cards for at least 20 years will answer 10 questions from a smaller bank of 20. They must get at least 6 correct to pass.
Transition Period
For applications filed within 30 days of publication: Applicants will take the familiar 2008 test. Applications filed 30 days or more after publication: Applicants will take the new 2025 test.
Why This Matters
For future U.S. citizens, the test you take may depend on when you file your N-400 application. If you are considering naturalization, now is an important time to plan. Filing earlier may allow you to take the 2008 version, while waiting will place you in the new system.
Our Take: The 2025 civics test brings back elements of the 2020 test, but with improvements designed to make it more practical for applicants. The main factor for many will be timing—if you are eligible to apply for citizenship, it may be worth filing sooner rather than later.
If you have any questions or concerns, email us at michael@wildeslaw.com.
*This is an ongoing development and subject to change.
