On Oct. 20, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) rolled out a revised civics test for those filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization). This marks one of the most significant overhauls to the civics portion of the naturalization process in recent years, increasing the rigor and breadth of questions. Here’s what prospective citizens need to know and how to prepare.
Under the new format, officers will draw from a pool of 128 possible civics questions (as opposed to 100 currently) spanning U.S. government, history, rights and responsibilities. During the interview, applicants will be asked up to 20 oral questions (instead of 10 under the prior 2008 test). To pass the new version, the applicant must correctly answer 12 out of the 20 questions (60%).
This marks one of the most significant overhauls to the civics portion of the naturalization process in recent years
If an applicant accumulates nine incorrect answers, the test ends and the result is a failure. Officers will stop asking further questions once the outcome is clear (i.e. once a passing or failing threshold is met). For N-400s filed after Oct. 20, the new 2025 civics test will apply.
For those 65 years or older who have been permanent residents for 20 years or more, USCIS will continue offering a shorter civics test: 10 questions from a designated subset, requiring six correct responses to pass. These applicants may take that version in their preferred language.
Importantly, the English test—reading, writing, speaking—portion remains unchanged. USCIS clarifies that the new civics test is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the naturalization process, including stricter review of moral character and community verification.
Why the change?
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization involves more than filling out forms, applicants must also demonstrate English ability and a solid understanding of U.S. history and government. USCIS says the revised test aligns with congressional intent that new citizens should have a deeper and more consistent understanding of American principles and government.
The agency views this update as a way to restore integrity and confidence in the naturalization process. At the same time, this change is part of a wider policy shift that includes greater vetting of “good moral character,” including stronger assessment of the applicant’s history and background.
USCIS will provide the updated “128 Questions” packet and study guides; rely on those rather than third-party materials. Also, you may want to broaden your study scope and not just focus on memorizing likely questions. Try to learn the underlying civics, history and government structure so you can handle any of the 128 questions.
Simulate oral Q&A and keep in mind that questions may require short responses and not simple one-word answers. While the civics questions are oral, solid English skills will help with clarity, comprehension and confidence. Seek guidance if needed. Immigration attorneys, community organizations and citizenship prep classes will adapt to reflect the new format in their curricula.
The upcoming civics test update represents a higher bar for citizenship applicants, not to discourage, but to ensure that those joining the U.S. as citizens are knowledgeable and prepared. For many prospective naturalization candidates, the October 2025 change is a call to study comprehensively and enter the process with confidence. With the right preparation, even a more demanding civics test can be an achievable step toward the American dream.
Barbara Wong-Wilson is an attorney at Mission Law & Advocacy, P.C. and SW Law Group P.C. If you have any questions on U.S. immigration matters, please feel free to reach out to wo**@*********ws.com or wo**@****pc.com.
