WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has announced the first major update to the naturalization civics test in more than a decade. The move is part of a larger effort to strengthen the citizenship process and ensure applicants have a clear understanding of American history and government.
The new civics test, which USCIS detailed in the Federal Register, expands the number of possible study questions from 100 to 128. Applicants will now face 20 oral questions during their interview and must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.
Examiners have the authority to end the test early if the result is already clear. USCIS officials said this change is meant to create a fairer and more consistent process for those seeking citizenship.
The new test will begin phasing in immediately. Applicants who file within 30 days of the notice may still take the 2008 version. Those who apply after that period will need to prepare for the 2025 version.
To help applicants adjust, USCIS is updating its study guides and resources through the Citizenship Resource Center. Officials said these updates will give future citizens the tools they need to prepare for the more comprehensive test.
The changes aim to align the naturalization process more closely with congressional intent. USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser emphasized the importance of the update in a statement.
“American citizenship is the most sacred citizenship in the world and should only be reserved for aliens who will fully embrace our values and principles as a nation,” Tragesser said. “These critical changes are the first of many.”
Some applicants will still qualify for a simplified version of the exam. Individuals who are at least 65 years old and have lived in the United States as lawful permanent residents for 20 years may continue to take a shorter test in their preferred language. This long-standing policy will remain unchanged.
The new civics exam is only one part of broader reforms underway at USCIS. The agency has introduced several measures to tighten oversight of the naturalization process.
USCIS has increased scrutiny of disability exemptions to English and civics requirements. Officials also expanded background vetting and updated guidance on how officers evaluate good moral character. The new standards encourage officers to consider positive contributions to society, not just the absence of wrongdoing.
The agency has also resumed neighborhood investigations, a practice aimed at confirming information provided by applicants. USCIS stressed that violations such as unlawful voting, unlawful voter registration, and false claims to citizenship will automatically disqualify applicants.
The changes come at a time when immigration and citizenship remain central to the national debate. USCIS leaders said the new test reflects a commitment to upholding the integrity of U.S. citizenship while supporting immigrants who are willing to embrace American values.
Study materials for the new test are now available online, giving applicants access to updated questions and preparation tools. The agency said it will continue to release additional resources in the coming months.
Further announcements on naturalization reforms are expected as USCIS reviews the full set of standards for becoming a U.S. citizen. Officials signaled that more changes could be on the horizon as part of their long-term strategy.
