Introduction
Applying for U.S. citizenship is an important milestone for many lawful permanent residents. As part of the naturalization process, applicants must complete a naturalization interview that includes both an English test and a civics test.
Understandably, many applicants worry about what will happen if they do not pass the test on their first attempt. Fortunately, failing part of the citizenship test does not automatically result in denial of the application. In many cases, applicants are given another opportunity to pass.
Understanding how the retesting process works can help applicants feel more prepared and confident.
The Two Parts of the Citizenship Test
During the naturalization interview, applicants are evaluated in two main areas:
English Test
The English test assesses the applicant’s ability to:
- Read in English
- Write in English
- Speak and understand basic English during the interview
The speaking portion is evaluated during the interview when the USCIS officer asks questions about the applicant’s background and application.
Civics Test
The civics test measures the applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history and government.
Applicants are asked up to 20 questions from a list of 128 civics questions provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To pass, the applicant must answer at least 12 questions correctly.
https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/find-study-materials-and-resources/study-for-the-test
What Happens If You Fail Part of the Test?
If an applicant fails either the English or civics portion during the interview, USCIS generally schedules a second opportunity to take the test.
The retest is usually scheduled within 60 to 90 days after the initial interview.
During the second appointment, the applicant will only be tested on the portion that was failed. For example:
- If the applicant passed the English test but failed the civics test, only the civics test will be retaken.
- If the applicant passed the civics test but failed the English portion, only the English test will be repeated.
This allows applicants to focus on the specific area that needs improvement.
What Happens If You Fail the Test a Second Time?
If an applicant fails the same portion of the test during the second attempt, USCIS may deny the naturalization application.
However, a denial does not necessarily mean the end of the citizenship process. In many cases, applicants may be able to:
- File a new naturalization application (Form N-400), or
- Request a review of the decision in certain circumstances
Before reapplying, it may be helpful to spend additional time preparing for the exam.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Test Requirements?
Some applicants may qualify for exceptions or modified testing requirements based on age and length of permanent residence.
For example:
- Applicants who are 50 years old and have lived in the U.S. as permanent residents for at least 20 years are exempt from the English requirement, and may take the civics test in their native language.
- Applicants who are 55 years old with 15 years of permanent residence may also qualify for a similar exemption.
- If you are age 65 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years at the time of filing for naturalization, you will be given special consideration regarding the civics requirement.
Additionally, individuals with certain medical disabilities may request an exemption from the English and civics tests by submitting Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions.
Tips for Preparing for the Citizenship Test
Applicants can improve their chances of success by preparing thoroughly before the naturalization interview.
Helpful preparation strategies include:
- Reviewing the official USCIS civics questions
- Practicing reading and writing English
- Taking citizenship practice tests
- Studying U.S. history and government topics
- Participating in citizenship preparation classes if available
The USCIS website provides study materials and resources for applicants preparing for the exam.
Key Takeaways
- The citizenship test includes both an English test and a civics test.
- Failing one portion does not automatically result in denial.
- Applicants usually receive a second opportunity to take the failed portion of the test.
- The retest is typically scheduled within 60 to 90 days.
- Failing the test twice may result in denial of the naturalization application.
Conclusion
Failing the U.S. citizenship test can feel discouraging, but it is not uncommon. USCIS typically provides applicants with a second opportunity to pass the portion of the test they did not complete successfully.
With additional preparation and study, many applicants are able to pass the test on their second attempt and continue on their path toward U.S. citizenship. Understanding the process and preparing carefully can help applicants approach the naturalization interview with confidence.
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REBECCA KROLL is an Associate Attorney at Richards and Jurusik who practices exclusively in U.S. immigration law, focusing on both business and family-based immigration. She assists clients with employment-based visas, marriage and family cases, and the U.S. citizenship process. (Full Bio)
