What should I know about the naturalization test?

U.S. citizenship is a dream for many immigrants in North Carolina and their families. One important part of the naturalization process is the naturalization test. This test is meant to ensure you can speak, understand and read adequately in English and it also measures your knowledge of U.S. government and history.

The English test

The English test covers three skills. One is speaking English. You must be able to adequately speak and understand the English language.

The second skill the English test will cover is reading. You must be able to demonstrate that you know how to adequately read in English.

The third skill the English test will cover is writing. You must be able to demonstrate that you are able to adequately write in English.

The civics test

In the 2020 version of the civics test a USCIS officer will ask you 20 questions about U.S. government and history. You must get 12 of these questions right to pass the civics test.

What if I fail?

You have two chances to take both the English and civics test and pass. If you fail the first time around, you will take the parts of the test you failed again between 60 to 90 days from the date you took the test the first time.

If you pass the English and civics test you can move forward in the naturalization process. The English and civics test are a big part of the naturalization process, but with preparation they are tests that are manageable for many seeking naturalization.