Immigrants who want to become citizens have to meet certain specific standards. Typically, they need to have lawfully resided in the United States for multiple years. They need to pass an extensive background check proving that they have not committed a crime of moral turpitude or any other offense that might make them ineligible for citizenship.
They also have to attend an interview conducted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). During that interview, there are many questions about the immigrant’s history and future plans. The immigrant must pass two tests.
There is an English language test and also a Civics test. The USCIS recently announced adjustments to the naturalization testing process. Those intending to become United States citizens need to understand what has changed.
The Civics test underwent adjustments
The Civics test is an oral examination. The immigrant answers questions asked by the interviewer. Previously, the test established in 2008 had 100 potential questions, with immigrants answering 10 questions. They had to answer at least six correctly.
The USCIS actually increased the pool of potential questions for the test to 128 as of late 2025. The testing process may now include up to 20 questions. The immigrant must answer at least 12 questions accurately. Answering nine questions incorrectly is enough to end the test. Immigrants hoping to naturalize still have access to the full list of potential questions, allowing them to prepare thoroughly and increase their chances of passing.
Accommodation requests may face more scrutiny
The USCIS offers language testing exemptions for certain older adults. There are also medical accommodations available for those with documented medical challenges that could affect their testing capabilities.
The USCIS remains committed to providing equal opportunity regardless of medical disability. However, accommodation requests may now be subject to more scrutiny to ensure that the applicant actually requires support to manage the naturalization testing process. Immigrants who need assistance to manage testing procedures may need to secure medical documentation before they submit a naturalization petition to increase their odds of securing the accommodations they need.
Those hoping to become United States citizens may need help understanding the testing process and managing the paperwork required. Retaining the services of an immigration attorney can make the naturalization process more accessible and predictable for immigrants.
For a discussion of other significant changes to the processing of naturalization applications implemented by the Trump administration, see “New USCIS Policy Places Heavier Scrutiny On “Good Moral Character Requirement For Naturalization”.
