What if you fail the English or civics naturalization tests?

The naturalization process gives some immigrants hoping to stay in the United States a possible means through which to establish U.S. citizenship. A multistep process, naturalization involves you sitting down for an interview with an officer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You also have to take and pass a two-part naturalization test if you wish to become a citizen through naturalization.

Per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, there are two main parts of the naturalization test: an English component and a civics component.

What to expect on the naturalization tests

When you take the English section of the test, USCIS wants to determine if you have the ability to read, write and speak using basic English. Plan to have to read aloud and speak with your interviewer in English. You are also going to have to write out one of three sentences accurately to pass this section of the test.

The civics section of the test assesses your knowledge of U.S. government and history. There are two different editions of the civics test, with one created in 2008 and another created in 2020. Which version you take depends on when you filed your application for naturalization.

What happens if you fail the naturalization tests

Try not to panic if you do not pass the English or civics sections of the naturalization test. You have two chances to take each test and pass it. If you do not pass during your first attempt, you have the option of taking that section again within between 60 and 90 days of your original naturalization interview.