Naturalization Civics Test Changes Coming in 2025
On September 17, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced through the Federal Register (Notice 2025-18050) that a new version of the naturalization civics test will take effect. This change restores the 2020 version of the test with improvements and replaces the older 2008 test for most future applicants.
What Is Changing in the Naturalization Civics Test?
Question Bank: The 2025 naturalization civics test uses the same 128 civics questions from the 2020 test.
Test Format: Applicants will answer 20 questions and must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.
Early Stop Rule: Officers may stop the test once it becomes clear that the applicant has passed with 12 correct answers or failed with 9 incorrect answers.
English Test: There are no changes to the reading, writing, or speaking requirements.
Who Will Take Which Test?
2008 Civics Test: This version applies to applicants who file Form N-400 before or within 30 days after the publication of the notice.
2025 Civics Test: This version applies to applicants who file 30 days or more after publication.
In addition, applicants who are 65 or older and have been lawful permanent residents for at least 20 years will continue to take the special 10-question test. They must answer at least six questions correctly to pass. The version they take depends on their filing date.
Why the Naturalization Civics Test Changes Matter
These changes will affect future U.S. citizenship applicants beginning in late 2025. Therefore, applicants should begin preparing as early as possible. In addition, USCIS will publish updated study materials that include all 128 questions and answers from the naturalization civics test.
How PennySmart Group Can Help
At PennySmart Group, we are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. However, we can help you prepare and organize your USCIS paperwork, including naturalization applications, family petitions, and other immigration forms.
In addition, we offer bilingual services in English and Spanish, affordable pricing, and convenient mobile and remote document preparation services for residents of North Port, Port Charlotte, Venice, Punta Gorda, and surrounding communities.
Conclusion
The upcoming naturalization civics test changes will impact many future citizenship applicants. Therefore, understanding the new requirements and preparing ahead of time can help make the naturalization process less stressful.
Schedule your appointment today by calling or texting 941-282-5787, chatting with us online, or emailing info@pennysmartgroup.com.