TLDR
From October 20, 2025, USCIS will use a new civics test for people applying for U.S. citizenship. The new test has 128 possible questions instead of 100. At your interview, you will be asked 20 questions, and you must answer 12 correctly to pass. The English reading, writing, and speaking parts stay the same. If you filed your citizenship application before October 20, 2025, you will still take the old test.
What exactly changed
- The civics question bank grew from 100 to 128 questions.
- During the interview, the officer will now ask 20 questions instead of 10.
- To pass, you need 12 correct answers (same 60% passing score as before).
- There is a new early-stop rule:
- If you already get 12 correct, the officer will stop.
- If you get 9 wrong, the officer will also stop.
- The English portion (reading, writing, speaking) did not change.
Official source: USCIS – 2025 Civics Test
What did not change
- English reading test: read one out of three sentences correctly.
- English writing test: write one out of three sentences correctly.
- English speaking test: officer checks your ability to speak English during the interview.
- The pass rate requirement stays 60% (just with more questions asked).
Timeline: Which test do you take
- If you file Form N-400 before October 20, 2025 → You take the 2008 version of the test (100 questions, 10 asked, 6 correct needed).
- If you file on or after October 20, 2025 → You take the 2025 version of the test (128 questions, 20 asked, 12 correct needed).
- Important: It is the filing date, not the interview date, that decides which test applies.
Official notice: Federal Register – 2025 Civics Test Implementation
Official USCIS study resources
You can download and use the same study materials that USCIS officers use:
- 2025 Civics Test – 128 Questions and Answers (PDF)
- Civics Test Study Guide (PDF)
- USCIS Study for the Test – Resource Center
Comparison: Old 2008 Test vs New 2025 Test
| Feature | 2008 Test | 2025 Test |
|---|---|---|
| Question bank | 100 questions | 128 questions |
| Questions asked at interview | 10 | 20 |
| Passing score | 6 correct (60%) | 12 correct (60%) |
| Early-stop rule | No | Yes (stop if 12 correct or 9 wrong) |
| English test | Required | Required (unchanged) |
Why USCIS made the change
- To update civics knowledge for today’s context.
- To make the test more consistent and structured across all applicants.
- To encourage stronger understanding of U.S. history and government.
- To strengthen the naturalization process as part of a broader policy review.
What this means for you
- If you want the simpler 2008 version, you must file before October 20, 2025.
- If you file after that date, prepare for the 128-question bank.
- Do not worry too much about the number — you still only need 12 correct out of 20.
- Use the official USCIS study guides and practice daily.
- Stay updated with official USCIS pages to avoid misinformation.
Final word
Yes, the test is bigger. Yes, it sounds scarier. But remember — the passing bar is the same. The U.S. citizenship process is about proving knowledge and commitment, not memorizing trivia perfectly. With good study tools, mock tests, and consistent practice, you can walk into your interview confident and ready.
