USCIS Reinstates 2020 Citizenship Test Version After Biden Administration's Changes

Strategic Insights -

The USCIS has announced a new citizenship test to be implemented in 2025, which will revert back to the 2020 test version, replacing the 2008 version that was introduced by the current administration. The test's passing score remains unchanged at 12 correct answers out of 20, but applicants will now have to study 128 questions instead of 100. The test will also adopt a new format, where administrators can stop asking questions if the applicant answers 12 correctly or 9 incorrectly.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new 2025 citizenship test will use the 2020 test version, which includes 128 questions for applicants to study, up from 100 questions in the current test.
  • The passing score remains the same, requiring applicants to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly.
  • The test will adopt a new format, allowing administrators to stop asking questions if the applicant answers 12 correctly or 9 incorrectly.
  • The test is an oral exam that must be passed by immigrants within two chances, with a passing rate of over 94% in the 2024 fiscal year.
  • An alien can take the test in a language other than English if they meet specific circumstances, such as being 50 years old or older and having been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years.
  • USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser stated that only those aliens who meet all eligibility requirements, including reading, writing, and speaking English, and understanding US government and civics, will be eligible for naturalization.

Statistics:

  • The new citizenship test will include 128 questions for applicants to study, up from 100 questions in the current test.
  • The passing score remains the same at 12 correct answers out of 20.
  • 94% of applicants passed the citizenship test in the 2024 fiscal year.
  • 50-year-old aliens can take the test in a language other than English if they have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years.

Sources:

  • USCIS Press Release (no date provided)
  • Times of India: "USCIS Reinstates 2020 Citizenship Test Version After Biden Administration's Changes" (no date provided)