USCIS Announces Major Changes to the Citizenship Civics Test Starting in 2025

USCIS has officially announced that it will reinstate the 2020 version of the naturalization civics test, known as the 128-question test, starting in 2025. This change affects anyone applying for U.S. citizenship (Form N-400) after the implementation date. The updated exam aims to ensure that applicants demonstrate a broader understanding of U.S. history, civics, and government before becoming citizens.

For those planning to apply for naturalization, this is an important development that could affect how you prepare for the interview and test.

When Will the New Test Start?

The new civics test will apply to applicants who file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) on or after October 20, 2025.

• If you file before October 20, 2025, you will continue to take the current version of the test (the 2008 version).

• If you file on or after October 20, 2025, you will take the new version (the 2025 test).

• Pending cases filed before the change will not be affected.

This means your filing date is crucial for determining which test applies to you.

What Does the 2025 Civics Test Look Like?

The new test is similar in format to the current one but has some important changes:

• 128 possible civics questions (increased from 100 questions).

• At your interview, the officer will ask you up to 20 questions (increased from 10).

• To pass, you must answer 12 correctly (60%).

• The officer will stop if you either get 12 correct (pass) or 9 wrong (fail).

• The test is still oral, meaning you answer out loud.

Special Consideration for Older Applicants

The 65/20 rule still applies: if you are 65 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 20 years or more, you only need to study a simplified list of questions. You’ll be asked 10 questions and must answer 6 correctly to pass.

What’s Staying the Same

• The English test (reading, writing, and speaking) is unchanged.

• You will still have a chance to retake the part you fail (civics or English) within 60–90 days.

• Topics still cover U.S. history, government, rights, and responsibilities.

• Answers that depend on current officials (like the President or your Senators) must be updated at the time of your interview.

Examples of Major Differences: 2008 vs. 2025

The biggest change is that the new test is longer, broader, and often requires more detail. Here are some examples to help you see the difference:

• 2008: “What does the Constitution do?”

  2025: “Name one thing the U.S. Constitution does.”

  The new version allows multiple correct answers and focuses on explanation.

  
  

• 2008: “What is an amendment?”

  2025: “How are changes made to the U.S. Constitution?”

  Shifts from definition to process.

  
  

• 2008: “The idea of self-government is in the first three words… What are these words?”

  2025: “The U.S. Constitution starts with the words ‘We the People.’ What does that mean?”

  Requires interpretation, not just recall.

  
  

• 2008: “Name one right only for U.S. citizens.”

  2025: “Who can vote, run for federal office, and serve on a jury?”

  Consolidates citizenship rights into one question.

  
  

• 2008: “Who did the U.S. fight in World War II?”

  2025: “Why did the U.S. enter World War II?”

  Focuses on reasoning, not just naming opponents.

  
  

• 2008: “When do we celebrate Independence Day?”

  2025: “What is Independence Day?”

  Broader framing, less about memorizing dates.

  
  

• 2008: “Name two national U.S. holidays.”

  2025: “Name three national U.S. holidays.”

  Requires listing more examples.

Other updates include more questions on the Bill of Rights, the 10th Amendment, presidential term limits, the Electoral College, landmark Supreme Court cases, the Civil Rights Movement, women’s suffrage, and U.S. involvement in wars after World War II — including Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf War, and conflicts after 9/11.

Why Is USCIS Making This Change?

USCIS says the goal is to strengthen civics knowledge and bring more consistency to the naturalization process. The 2025 version builds on the 2020 test (which was briefly introduced and then rescinded), but with some modifications.

It is part of a larger overhaul of the citizenship process that also includes closer scrutiny of disability waivers, good moral character, and even the return of neighborhood investigations for some applicants.

What This Means for You

• If you plan to apply for naturalization in the near future, think carefully about when to file. Filing before October 20, 2025 means taking the shorter 2008 test. Filing after means preparing for the longer 2025 version.

• If you will take the 2025 test, make sure to study early. With 128 questions, more detailed answers, and broader topics, preparation will be more demanding.

• Don’t forget that immigration officers have discretion to stop asking questions once you pass — but they can also stop early if you fail.

Resources for Studying the New Civics Test

If you’re preparing for the new 2025 naturalization civics test, USCIS has published free study materials to help you:

• 📄 128 Civics Questions and Answers (English PDF) – Download here 

• 📘 2025 Civics Test Study Guide – Download here 

👉 For Vietnamese speakers: USCIS has published civics study resources in Vietnamese for the older 2008 version. Updated 2025 translations are expected, but in the meantime, you can find available resources here:

• USCIS Citizenship Multilingual Resources (Vietnamese)

Need Help with Naturalization?

At Tran Flores Law, we have successfully guided many clients through every step of the citizenship process — from preparing an accurate and strong application package to preparing for the civics and English tests and interview questions. We can help you decide the best timing for your application, ensure your application is the strongest it can be, and make sure you are fully prepared for the interview.

📞 Contact us today at (512) 894-9984 to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward becoming a U.S. citizen.