YOUR N-400 PRACTICE GUIDE

Practice your N-400
citizenship interview.

Get comfortable with the citizenship interview questions about your application, one topic at a time. Listen, understand, and practice answering in your own words.

11 chapters89 practice promptsAudio included

SMALL STEPS, STEADY PROGRESS

Build confidence, one chapter at a time

Start with a familiar topic. A short, focused session is a good place to begin.

  1. 1

    Listen & understand

    Hear the question. Open its guidance if any words are unfamiliar.

  2. 2

    Say your own answer

    Try it out loud. Use the answer frame for support, then try without it.

  3. 3

    Reflect & revisit

    Could you answer truthfully and explain what you meant? Return to anything that felt difficult.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Start with the first conversation

Greetings, simple instructions, and settling into the interview.

Start chapter 1

What happens at the interview?

A USCIS officer asks about your application and background. You also take English and civics tests unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver. These chapters help you practice the conversation. What to expect at USCIS.

Have a question? Read the FAQs

CHAPTER 01 / 11 · 8 prompts

Starting the interview

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Do you promise to tell the truth today?

    What it means
    The officer asks you to swear that everything you say is true.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I do.

    Use your own true information.

    Listen carefully. Say 'Yes, I do' clearly.

  2. 2Good morning. How are you today?

    What it means
    The officer says hello and asks how you feel.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Good morning. I am fine, thank you. How are you?

    Use your own true information.

    Smile and answer with a short sentence. It is polite to ask 'How are you?' back.

  3. 3Please follow me.

    What it means
    The officer wants you to walk with them to their office.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    OK. Thank you.

    Use your own true information.

    Walk behind the officer. You do not need to say much. A short 'OK' or 'Thank you' is fine.

  4. 4Please have a seat.

    What it means
    The officer asks you to sit down. 'Have a seat' means 'sit down.'

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Thank you.

    Use your own true information.

    Officers may also say 'Sit down, please' or 'Take a seat.' They all mean the same thing.

  5. 5How did you come here today?

    What it means
    The officer asks how you traveled to the office: by car, bus, train, or another way.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I came by ___ (car / bus / train). / My ___ drove me here.

    Use your own true information.

    This is small talk. The officer wants to hear you speak English. Try to answer with a full sentence.

  6. 6Did you bring your appointment notice?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you have the letter from USCIS with the date and time of your interview.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, here it is. / No, I am sorry. I forgot it.

    Use your own true information.

    Read your appointment notice before the interview. It tells you which documents to bring.

  7. 7Do you know why you are here today?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you understand the reason for this meeting.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes. I am here for my citizenship interview.

    Use your own true information.

    You can also say 'for my naturalization interview.' Speak slowly and clearly.

  8. 8Did anyone come with you today?

    What it means
    The officer asks if another person came with you, for example a family member or a lawyer.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I came alone. / Yes, my ___ is waiting outside. / Yes, my attorney is here with me.

    Use your own true information.

    Answer truthfully and say who the person is.

CHAPTER 02 / 11 · 6 prompts

Your name

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1What is your full name?

    What it means
    The officer wants your first name, middle name (if you have one), and last name.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My full name is ___ ___ ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Say your name the same way it appears on your N-400. If something is different, tell the officer.

  2. 2Have you used any other names?

    What it means
    'Other names' means names you used in the past, like a name before marriage or a different spelling on official papers.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. I also used the name ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Your answer should match your N-400. If something on your form is wrong or has changed, tell the officer.

  3. 3Do you want to legally change your name?

    What it means
    Some people change their name when they become a citizen. The officer asks if you want a new legal name.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I do not. / Yes, I do. I want my new name to be ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Not every place can change your name at the oath ceremony. Ask the officer what to do if you want a new name.

  4. 4What is your family name?

    What it means
    'Family name' means your last name, also called your surname.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My family name is ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Officers may say 'last name,' 'family name,' or 'surname.' They all mean the same thing.

  5. 5Is this your name? Is it spelled correctly?

    What it means
    The officer shows you your name on a document and asks if every letter is correct.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, that is correct. / No, there is a mistake. It should be ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Check the spelling carefully. It is OK to say there is a mistake.

  6. 6Why did you change your name?

    What it means
    The officer asks the reason your name is different now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I changed my name when I got married. / I changed my name because ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Answer with a short, clear sentence. If you have papers that show the change, like a marriage certificate or a court order, bring them.

CHAPTER 03 / 11 · 6 prompts

Your address

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1What is your current address?

    What it means
    'Current address' means the place where you live now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I live at ___ (number and street), ___ (city), ___ (state), ___ (ZIP code).

    Use your own true information.

    Practice saying your address out loud. Say the numbers slowly.

  2. 2How long have you lived at this address?

    What it means
    The officer asks how much time you have lived in your home.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I have lived there for ___ years. / I have lived there since ___ (month and year).

    Use your own true information.

    Use 'for' with an amount of time (for three years). Use 'since' with a start date (since 2019).

  3. 3Where did you live before that?

    What it means
    The officer asks about your previous address, the place you lived before your current home.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Before that, I lived at ___ in ___ (city).

    Use your own true information.

    The N-400 asks where you lived during the last five years (three years for some spouses of U.S. citizens). Review your addresses before the interview.

  4. 4Do you rent or own your home?

    What it means
    'Rent' means you pay money every month to live there. 'Own' means the home belongs to you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I rent an apartment. / I own my house. / I live with my ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Small talk questions help the officer hear your English. Keep your answer simple.

  5. 5Who lives with you?

    What it means
    The officer asks which people live in your home.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I live with my ___ (wife / husband / children / parents). / I live alone.

    Use your own true information.

    Use 'my' before family words: my wife, my son, my mother.

  6. 6Have you moved since you sent your application?

    What it means
    The officer asks if your address changed after you filed your N-400. 'Move' means to go live in a new home.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not moved. / Yes, I have. I moved to ___ in ___ (month).

    Use your own true information.

    If you move, tell USCIS your new address within 10 days. Bring proof of your new address to the interview.

CHAPTER 04 / 11 · 9 prompts

Your family

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1What is your marital status?

    What it means
    'Marital status' means if you are single, married, divorced, separated, or widowed.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I am ___ (single / married / divorced / separated / widowed).

    Use your own true information.

    Your answer should match your N-400. If your status changed after you applied, tell the officer.

  2. 2What is your spouse's name?

    What it means
    'Spouse' means your husband or your wife.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My spouse's name is ___. / My wife's name is ___. / My husband's name is ___.

    Use your own true information.

    If you are not married, say 'I am not married.'

  3. 3When did you get married?

    What it means
    The officer asks the date of your marriage.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    We got married on ___ (month, day, year).

    Use your own true information.

    Practice saying dates in English, for example 'June 5, 2015.' In English, the month usually comes first.

  4. 4Is your spouse a U.S. citizen?

    What it means
    The officer asks if your husband or wife is a citizen of the United States.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, my spouse is a U.S. citizen. / No, my spouse is a permanent resident. / No, my spouse is not.

    Use your own true information.

    If you applied because you are married to a U.S. citizen, the officer may ask more questions about your marriage. Answer truthfully.

  5. 5How many times have you been married?

    What it means
    The officer asks the total number of your marriages, including your marriage now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I have been married ___ time(s). / I have never been married.

    Use your own true information.

    Count all marriages, including marriages that ended in divorce or death.

  6. 6Have you been married before?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you had a marriage before your marriage now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, this is my first marriage. / Yes, I was married before. That marriage ended in ___ (year).

    Use your own true information.

    The officer may ask how the marriage ended: divorce, death, or annulment. Bring papers that show it, if you have them.

  7. 7How many children do you have?

    What it means
    The officer asks how many sons and daughters you have. On the N-400, 'children' includes adult children, stepchildren, adopted children, and children who live in another country.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I have ___ children: ___ sons and ___ daughters. / I do not have any children.

    Use your own true information.

    Read the N-400 instructions for the full rule. Your answer should match your form.

  8. 8Where do your children live?

    What it means
    The officer asks the place where your children live now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My children live with me. / My son lives in ___. / My daughter lives in ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Use 'lives' for one person (my son lives) and 'live' for more people (my children live).

  9. 9What does your spouse do?

    What it means
    The officer asks about your husband's or wife's job.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My spouse works as a ___. / My spouse is a student. / My spouse is retired.

    Use your own true information.

    'What does he/she do?' is a common way to ask about someone's job.

CHAPTER 05 / 11 · 7 prompts

Work and school

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Are you working now?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you have a job at this time. You may also hear 'Are you employed?'

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am. I work at ___. / No, I am not working right now.

    Use your own true information.

    'Employed' means you have a job. 'Unemployed' means you do not have a job.

  2. 2What do you do for work?

    What it means
    The officer asks what your job is.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I am a ___ (cook / nurse / driver). / I work as a ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Learn the English name of your job before the interview.

  3. 3Who is your employer?

    What it means
    'Employer' means the company or person you work for and who pays you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I work for ___ (company name). / I am self-employed.

    Use your own true information.

    'Self-employed' means you work for yourself, for example you have your own business.

  4. 4How long have you worked there?

    What it means
    The officer asks how much time you have had this job.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I have worked there for ___ years. / I have worked there since ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Remember: 'for' plus an amount of time, 'since' plus a start date.

  5. 5Where did you work before that?

    What it means
    The officer asks about your past jobs.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Before that, I worked at ___ as a ___.

    Use your own true information.

    The N-400 asks about your work and school during the last five years (three years for some spouses of U.S. citizens). Review the dates before the interview.

  6. 6Are you a student?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you go to school, college, or a training program now.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I study ___ at ___. / No, I am not a student.

    Use your own true information.

    English classes count too. You can say 'I take English classes at ___.'

  7. 7Was there a time when you did not work?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you were unemployed, retired, or at home for some time.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes. I did not work from ___ to ___ because ___. / No, I have worked the whole time. / I am retired.

    Use your own true information.

    It is OK to have time without work. Explain it simply. The N-400 asks about these times too.

CHAPTER 06 / 11 · 7 prompts

Trips outside the U.S.

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Have you traveled outside the United States in the last five years?

    What it means
    The officer asks if you took any trips to other countries.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. I went to ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Review the trips you listed on your N-400. Short trips to Canada or Mexico are trips outside the U.S. too. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  2. 2How many trips have you taken?

    What it means
    The officer asks the number of times you left the United States.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I have taken ___ trips. / I took one trip.

    Use your own true information.

    Count each time you left and came back as one trip.

  3. 3Where did you go?

    What it means
    The officer asks which country or countries you visited.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I went to ___ to visit my ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Use the past tense: 'I went,' 'I visited,' 'I stayed.'

  4. 4How long were you outside the United States?

    What it means
    The officer asks how many days, weeks, or months you were away.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I was gone for ___ (days / weeks). / I left on ___ and came back on ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Check your passport stamps or tickets to remember the dates. Your answer should match your N-400.

  5. 5What was your longest trip?

    What it means
    The officer asks which trip took the most time.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    My longest trip was ___ (weeks / months), to ___.

    Use your own true information.

    'Longest' means the most long. Give the length and the place.

  6. 6Have you ever stayed outside the United States for six months or more?

    What it means
    The officer asks about long trips. A long time outside the U.S. can affect 'continuous residence,' which means living in the U.S. without a long break.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. I was in ___ from ___ to ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  7. 7Why did you travel?

    What it means
    The officer asks the reason for your trip.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I traveled to visit my family. / I went on vacation. / I went because ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Start your answer with 'I traveled to...' or 'I went because...'

CHAPTER 07 / 11 · 6 prompts

Your immigration history

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1When did you become a permanent resident?

    What it means
    The officer asks the date you became a lawful permanent resident (the date you got your Green Card status).

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I became a permanent resident on ___ (month, day, year).

    Use your own true information.

    Look at your Green Card. The date is next to 'Resident Since.'

  2. 2How did you get your Green Card?

    What it means
    The officer asks the way you became a permanent resident, for example through family, a job, asylum, refugee status, or the diversity visa lottery.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I got my Green Card through my ___ (husband / wife / parent / employer). / I got it through ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Answer simply. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  3. 3When did you first come to the United States?

    What it means
    The officer asks the date of your first arrival in the U.S.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I first came to the United States in ___ (year).

    Use your own true information.

    'First' means the first time. If you came many times, give the earliest date.

  4. 4Where did you enter the United States?

    What it means
    The officer asks the city, airport, or border crossing where you arrived.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I entered at ___ (city / airport / border crossing).

    Use your own true information.

    'Enter' means to come into the country. Answer truthfully. If you are not sure about any part of your entry history, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  5. 5Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen?

    What it means
    The officer asks your reasons for applying for citizenship.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    I want to become a citizen because ___ (I want to vote / my family is here / this is my home).

    Use your own true information.

    There is no right or wrong answer. Use your own true reasons.

  6. 6Have you been a permanent resident for at least five years?

    What it means
    Most applicants must be permanent residents for five years before they apply. Some spouses of U.S. citizens need three years.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I have. I became a permanent resident in ___. / I applied after three years because I am married to a U.S. citizen.

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

CHAPTER 08 / 11 · 11 prompts

Understanding N-400 words

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1What does 'claim to be a U.S. citizen' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand this N-400 question. To 'claim' means to say that something is true about you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    It means saying that I am a U.S. citizen when I am not, for example on a job form.

    Use your own true information.

    Explain in your own simple words. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  2. 2What is a 'crime'?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'crime' on the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    A crime is something that is against the law, like stealing.

    Use your own true information.

    You can give a simple example. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  3. 3What does 'support the Constitution' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand this phrase from the oath questions.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    It means to agree with and follow the Constitution, the highest law of the United States.

    Use your own true information.

    Short answers are fine. You can also say 'It means to obey the laws of the United States.'

  4. 4What does 'arrested' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'arrested' on the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Arrested means the police take you and hold you because they think you broke the law.

    Use your own true information.

    Being arrested is different from being convicted. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  5. 5What is a 'habitual drunkard'?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand this phrase from the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    It is a person who drinks too much alcohol very often.

    Use your own true information.

    'Habitual' means done again and again. 'Drunkard' means a person who is often drunk. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  6. 6What does 'polygamy' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'polygamy' on the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Polygamy means being married to more than one person at the same time.

    Use your own true information.

    Explain in your own words. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  7. 7What does 'oath' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'oath.'

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    An oath is a serious promise.

    Use your own true information.

    You can add: 'At the ceremony, I promise to be loyal to the United States.'

  8. 8What does 'allegiance' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'allegiance' in 'Oath of Allegiance.'

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Allegiance means loyalty to a country.

    Use your own true information.

    A one-word answer like 'loyalty' is a good start. Then try a full sentence.

  9. 9What does 'persecute' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand the word 'persecute' on the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    To persecute means to hurt or treat people very badly because of their race, religion, nationality, group, or political opinion.

    Use your own true information.

    Explain in simple words. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  10. 10What is a 'terrorist organization'?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand this phrase from the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    It is a group that uses violence or threats against people to get what it wants.

    Use your own true information.

    Explain in simple words. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  11. 11What does 'owe taxes' mean?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understand this phrase from the tax question on the N-400.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    It means you must pay tax money to the government and you have not paid it yet.

    Use your own true information.

    'Owe' means you have to pay money. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

CHAPTER 09 / 11 · 12 prompts

Background questions ("Have you ever...?")

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Have you ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen?

    What it means
    'Claim' means to say something is true. This asks if you ever said, wrote, or marked on a form that you were a U.S. citizen when you were not.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain what happened).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  2. 2Have you ever registered to vote or voted in any election in the United States?

    What it means
    'Register to vote' means to sign up so you can vote. 'Election' means a time when people vote for leaders or laws (federal, state, or local).

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain what happened).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  3. 3Do you owe any overdue federal, state, or local taxes?

    What it means
    'Owe' means you have to pay money. 'Overdue' means late, after the date you had to pay.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I do not. / Yes, I do. ___ (explain, for example 'I have a payment plan').

    Use your own true information.

    If you have a payment plan, bring papers that show it. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  4. 4Have you ever been arrested, cited, or detained by any law enforcement officer?

    What it means
    'Arrested' means the police took you and held you. 'Cited' means an officer gave you a ticket or paper that says you broke a rule. 'Detained' means you were held and not free to leave. A 'law enforcement officer' includes police and immigration officers.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. I was ___ (arrested / cited / detained) in ___ (year) for ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Bring court papers about the case if you have them. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  5. 5Have you ever committed a crime or offense for which you were not arrested?

    What it means
    'Commit' means to do. A 'crime' or 'offense' is something that is against the law. This asks about times you broke the law but the police did not arrest you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain what happened).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  6. 6Have you ever been a habitual drunkard?

    What it means
    A 'habitual drunkard' is a person who drinks too much alcohol very often, as a habit.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  7. 7Have you ever been married to more than one person at the same time?

    What it means
    This question is about 'polygamy.' It asks if you ever had two or more husbands or wives at the same time.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  8. 8Have you ever been involved in prostitution?

    What it means
    'Prostitution' means selling sex for money. 'Involved' means taking part in it in any way, for example bringing other people into it.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  9. 9Have you ever served in the U.S. armed forces?

    What it means
    'Serve' means to work for. The 'armed forces' are the military, like the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. I served in the ___ from ___ to ___.

    Use your own true information.

    If you served, bring your military papers. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  10. 10If you are a man who lived in the United States at any time between your 18th and 26th birthdays, did you register for Selective Service?

    What it means
    'Selective Service' is the U.S. system that keeps a list of men who could be called to serve in the military. 'Register' means to put your name on the official list.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I registered. / No, I did not. ___ (explain). / This question does not apply to me.

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  11. 11Have you ever been removed or deported from the United States, or been in removal proceedings?

    What it means
    'Removed' or 'deported' means the government made you leave the country. 'Removal proceedings' means an immigration court case to decide if you must leave.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain what happened and when).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  12. 12Have you ever given false or misleading information to a U.S. government official?

    What it means
    'False' means not true. 'Misleading' means it gives someone the wrong idea. A 'government official' is a person who works for the government, like an immigration officer.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    No, I have not. / Yes, I have. ___ (explain).

    Use your own true information.

    Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

CHAPTER 10 / 11 · 7 prompts

The Oath of Allegiance

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Do you support the Constitution and form of government of the United States?

    What it means
    'Support' means to agree with and help. The 'Constitution' is the highest law of the U.S. 'Form of government' means the way the country is governed.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I do.

    Use your own true information.

    Listen for 'Do you...?' and answer 'Yes, I do' or 'No, I do not.'

  2. 2Do you understand the full Oath of Allegiance to the United States?

    What it means
    The 'Oath of Allegiance' is the promise new citizens make to be loyal to the United States. 'Full' means all of it.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I do.

    Use your own true information.

    Read the Oath of Allegiance before your interview. If a word is not clear, ask the officer to explain it.

  3. 3Are you willing to take the full Oath of Allegiance?

    What it means
    'Willing' means you agree to do it. 'Take the oath' means to say the promise at the ceremony.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am.

    Use your own true information.

    Listen for 'Are you...?' and answer 'Yes, I am' or 'No, I am not.'

  4. 4If the law requires it, are you willing to bear arms on behalf of the United States?

    What it means
    'Bear arms' means to carry weapons and fight as part of the military. 'On behalf of' means for. 'If the law requires it' means only if the law says you must.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am. / No, I am not, because of my religious beliefs.

    Use your own true information.

    Some people may take a modified oath because of their religious training and beliefs. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  5. 5If the law requires it, are you willing to perform noncombatant services in the U.S. armed forces?

    What it means
    'Noncombatant services' means helping the military without fighting, for example working as a cook or in a hospital. 'Perform' means to do.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am. / No, I am not, because of my religious beliefs.

    Use your own true information.

    Some people may take a modified oath because of their religious training and beliefs. Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  6. 6If the law requires it, are you willing to perform work of national importance under civilian direction?

    What it means
    'Work of national importance' means important work for the country. 'Under civilian direction' means the leaders are not military people.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am. / No, I am not. ___ (explain).

    Use your own true information.

    Listen for the words 'if the law requires it.' Always answer truthfully. If you are not sure how this fact affects your case, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

  7. 7Are you willing to give up loyalty to any other country?

    What it means
    In the Oath of Allegiance, you 'renounce' (give up) loyalty to any foreign country or ruler.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I am.

    Use your own true information.

    This promise is part of the Oath of Allegiance. If you have questions about what it means for your other citizenship, talk to a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

CHAPTER 11 / 11 · 10 prompts

Instructions and asking for help

Try answering out loud first. Open a question for its meaning, audio, and a helpful answer frame.

  1. 1Please raise your right hand.

    What it means
    The officer asks you to lift your right hand up. Usually this happens before you promise to tell the truth.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    (Raise your right hand.) OK.

    Use your own true information.

    Practice 'right' and 'left' so you do not mix them up.

  2. 2Please sign here.

    What it means
    The officer asks you to write your signature on a paper or an electronic pad.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Here? OK. / Can you tell me what this paper is, please?

    Use your own true information.

    Sign the way you usually sign. If you are not sure what you are signing, it is OK to ask.

  3. 3Please spell your last name.

    What it means
    'Spell' means to say each letter of the word, one by one.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Sure. It is ___ (say each letter).

    Use your own true information.

    Practice the English alphabet. Letters like E, I, G, and J sound different in English.

  4. 4Do you understand the question?

    What it means
    The officer checks that you understood what they asked.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes, I understand. / No, I am sorry. Could you please repeat the question?

    Use your own true information.

    Never say 'yes' if you did not understand. It is OK to ask the officer to repeat the question or say it in a different way.

  5. 5Can you repeat that, please?

    What it means
    The officer did not hear or understand you and asks you to say your answer again.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes. I said ___.

    Use your own true information.

    Speak a little more slowly and a little louder the second time.

  6. 6Let me ask that in a different way.

    What it means
    The officer will ask the same question again with different, easier words. This is called 'rephrasing.'

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Thank you. / Could you please explain what ___ means?

    Use your own true information.

    You can also ask for help yourself. Say: 'Could you say that in a different way, please?' or 'What does ___ mean?'

  7. 7Please wait here.

    What it means
    The officer asks you to stay in this place until they come back or call you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    OK. Thank you.

    Use your own true information.

    You may also hear 'Please wait until I call your name.' Stay close so you can hear.

  8. 8May I see your Green Card and ID, please?

    What it means
    The officer asks you to show your permanent resident card and another document with your photo, like a driver's license or passport.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Yes. Here they are.

    Use your own true information.

    Keep your documents together and easy to find. Hand them to the officer; you do not need to read any numbers out loud.

  9. 9Could you speak a little louder, please?

    What it means
    The officer cannot hear you well. 'Louder' means with a stronger voice.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    Sorry. Is this better?

    Use your own true information.

    If the officer speaks too fast, you can ask too: 'Could you speak more slowly, please?'

  10. 10Please read this sentence out loud.

    What it means
    This is part of the English reading test. 'Out loud' means so the officer can hear you.

    TRY THIS SENTENCE PATTERN

    OK. (Read the sentence slowly and clearly.)

    Use your own true information.

    Read at a calm speed. If you make a mistake, you can read the word again.

UNDERSTAND BEFORE YOU ANSWER

Small words. Important meanings.

Start with these 12 useful terms. Open a word to hear it and see an example. These are learning definitions, not legal definitions.

Oath

A serious promise, often made in front of an official.

I promised under oath to tell the truth.

Allegiance

Loyalty to a country or ruler.

New citizens take the Oath of Allegiance.

Naturalization

The legal process to become a U.S. citizen if you were not born a citizen.

I am here for my naturalization interview.

Permanent resident

A person who is allowed to live and work in the U.S. permanently but is not a citizen.

I became a permanent resident in 2015.

Green Card

The common name for the Permanent Resident Card. It shows that you are a permanent resident.

Here is my Green Card.

Residence

The place where you live.

My residence is in Texas.

Marital status

If you are single, married, divorced, separated, or widowed.

My marital status is married.

Spouse

Your husband or your wife.

My spouse works at a hospital.

Employer

The company or person you work for and who pays you.

My employer is a construction company.

Self-employed

Working for yourself, for example in your own business, not for an employer.

I am self-employed. I have a cleaning business.

Trip

A time when you go to another place and then come back.

I took a trip to Mexico last year.

Interpreter

A person who changes spoken words from one language into another language.

I do not need an interpreter today.

Explore all interview, reading, and writing vocabulary

A LITTLE CLARITY HELPS

Your interview questions, answered

Practical help for studying and knowing what to expect.

Will the officer ask these exact questions?

These are illustrative practice prompts, not an official question bank or a script. The officer asks about your application and background. Use the chapters to understand common language and practice your own truthful answers.

How should I use the chapters?

Choose one topic. Read or listen to a question, try answering aloud, then check the meaning and answer frame. Replace every blank with your own information. Mark a chapter as practiced when you have worked through it; revisit it whenever you need.

Should I memorize the sample answers?

Use the frames to learn how to form a sentence. Do not memorize personal facts or a yes/no answer that is not true for you. Review your own Form N-400 and explain your situation in your own words.

Can I ask the officer to repeat a question?

Yes. You can ask for a question to be repeated or rephrased. Practice saying: “Could you please repeat the question?” or “Could you say that in a different way?” Do not guess if you do not understand. USCIS speaking guidelines.

How is speaking evaluated at the interview?

The USCIS officer evaluates your English speaking ability through your answers during the eligibility interview on Form N-400. This page does not grade your voice or predict your result. Chapter checkmarks only record what you practiced. USCIS scoring guidelines.

What should I bring to my interview?

Read your appointment notice for instructions specific to you. USCIS lists your interview notice, Green Card, state-issued identification, and valid and expired passports and travel documents documenting absences since becoming a permanent resident. Additional documents may be needed for your case. USCIS interview checklist.

Does this replace civics, reading, and writing practice?

No. These chapters focus on interview language and speaking. Prepare for the other test components separately, unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver. Civics practice · English practice · USCIS exceptions.

Are my answers recorded? Is my progress saved?

This page does not record your voice or ask you to enter personal answers. Your practiced chapters and last chapter are saved in this browser when local storage is available. They do not sync to another device. Clearing browser data removes them.

What if I am unsure how to answer about my history?

Always answer truthfully. These language exercises cannot tell you how a fact affects your eligibility. Discuss questions about your case with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative before your interview.

Practice language, always answer truthfully. These prompts are illustrative, not an official USCIS list. For advice about your own eligibility or history, speak with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative.