TLDR
The new citizenship test has more possible questions (128 instead of 100) and the officer will ask 20 instead of 10. But you only need 12 correct to pass, which is the same 60% as before. There is also a new early-stop rule that can actually help you finish faster. With the right study habits, this test is still very passable.
Why the new test is not as scary as it looks
- Old rule: 10 questions asked, 6 needed to pass (60%).
- New rule: 20 questions asked, 12 needed to pass (still 60%).
- So while the number of questions doubled, the passing percentage is exactly the same.
- Early-stop rule helps:
- If you reach 12 correct, the officer stops.
- If you reach 9 wrong, the officer also stops.
- This means many applicants will not need to hear all 20 questions.
Official source: USCIS 2025 Civics Test
How the early-stop rule can help you
Imagine you get the first 12 questions correct. The officer will stop the test right there. You pass. No need to answer the remaining 8.
Or, if you get 9 wrong before finishing 20 questions, the officer also stops. You fail — but at least you know the result right away.
This rule reduces pressure because you are not forced to go through all 20.
Study strategy that works
- Start early
Do not try to learn 128 questions in one week. Spread your practice. - Group by topics
Learn government first (branches, elections), then history, then rights and responsibilities. - Use flashcards and mnemonics
Memory tricks make boring facts stick. Example: “First 3 words of the Constitution are ‘We the People’ → think WTP = We The People.” - Simulate the real interview
Practice answering out loud, in English, without looking at notes. - Focus on weaknesses
If you always miss questions about the Constitution or amendments, practice those more.
Reassurance for non-native speakers
- The officer is checking knowledge, not accent.
- You do not need perfect English, only clear enough answers.
- If you forget a word, say it in your own way — as long as the meaning is correct.
A simple example to calm your nerves
Maria is nervous. She studies 50 questions really well, then adds 20 more each week. At her interview, she answers 12 correct by question 14. The officer stops and says “You passed.” She never heard the last 6 questions.
This is a real possibility for you too.
Why preparation is key
- The 128 questions are all published by USCIS. Nothing is hidden.
- Use the official PDF: 128 Questions and Answers.
- Practice every day for 10–15 minutes.
- Confidence comes from repetition.
Final word
Yes, there are more questions now. But no, it is not impossible. The passing bar is the same. The rules may even help you pass faster. With steady practice and smart study tools, you can walk into the interview knowing you are ready.
