USCIS Announces New Civics Test for Naturalization – Effective October 2025
If you are planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, there is an important update you should know about. USCIS has just announced that it will be rolling out a new civics test—called the 2025 Naturalization Civics Test—starting October 20, 2025.
Here’s what this means for you:
- Bigger Question Bank: Instead of 100 questions, the new test will draw from 128 possible questions about U.S. history and government.
- More Questions During the Interview: You’ll be asked up to 20 questions and will need to get 12 right to pass. Under the current version of the test, you are asked only 10 questions and need to get 6 right to pass.
- Shorter Testing Process: Officers will stop asking questions once you’ve passed or failed, saving time during the interview.
- Special Rule for Seniors: If you are 65 or older and have been a green card holder for 20+ years, you still only need to answer 6 out of 10 questions from a shorter list.
When Will This Affect You?
- If you file your N-400 before October 18, 2025, you will still take the current 2008 version (10 questions, pass with 6 correct).
- If you file on or after October 20, 2025, you’ll take the new test.
How to Prepare
USCIS will release updated study guides and flashcards on its website in the near future. Be sure to download the official materials so you know exactly what to expect with the new test.
If you are already preparing for citizenship, consider filing your N-400 before the October deadline if you prefer the shorter 10-question version. But if you’re filing later, don’t worry – just start studying early and use the official resources.
If you have any questions about this blog post or if you need assistance with your Naturalization application, schedule an appointment to speak with U.S. Immigration Lawyer Sean D. Hummel.
