The U.S. Civics Test: How It Works and How to Study

Questions about American government (the Constitution, the three branches, rights and responsibilities), American history from the colonial period to today, and national symbols and holidays. Every possible question and its accepted answers are published by USCIS, so you can study the whole list before your interview.

You get a second chance. USCIS retests you only on the part you failed, English or civics, between 60 and 90 days after your first interview.

Only if you qualify for an English exemption. Applicants who are 50 or older with 20 years as a permanent resident (50/20), 55 or older with 15 years (55/15), or 65 or older with 20 years (65/20) when they file still take the civics test, but may take it in their own language with an interpreter. The 65/20 group also studies a shorter list of 20 questions. See USCIS exceptions and accommodations.

Yes. If a physical or developmental disability or a mental impairment keeps you from learning the material, a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy or clinical psychologist can complete Form N-648 to request an exception to the English requirement, the civics requirement, or both. Accommodations such as extra time are requested separately.

No. USCIS accepts a correct answer or another way of saying the correct answer. What matters is that the answer is right and complete: when a question asks for two or three things, give that many.