The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced major updates to the 2025 naturalization civics test that will take effect on October 20, 2025. The updated naturalization test will apply to all applicants who file a Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, on or after that date. Learn what’s changing and how Burgos Law, an immigration law firm, can guide you through your U.S. Citizenship process.
According to this USCIS policy update, these revisions are part of a broader initiative to ensure that individuals seeking U.S. citizenship have a genuine understanding of the country’s history, government, and civic responsibilities. USCIS also emphasized that the changes are intended to strengthen the overall integrity of the naturalization process.
View the Official Federal Register Notice here.
Key USCIS Policy Updates: What’s Changing in the 2025 Naturalization Test?
As outlined in the USCIS policy update, the 2025 version of the naturalization civics test introduces several important modifications:
- Larger Question Pool: The number of potential civics questions has been expanded from 100 to 128, allowing examiners to test a broader range of topics related to U.S. history and government.
- More Questions During the Interview: Applicants will now be asked up to 20 oral questions instead of the previous 10.
- Higher Passing Threshold: To pass, applicants must correctly answer at least 12 questions instead of the previous 6.
- Streamlined Interview Process: Examiners will conclude the civics portion once an applicant has either achieved 12 correct answers or reached 9 incorrect answers.
- English Test Unchanged: The English reading, writing, and speaking components remain the same.
- Special Rule for Long-Term Residents: Applicants age 65 or older who have held lawful permanent residence for at least 20 years will continue to take a simplified version of the test drawn from the new set of questions.
If you plan to apply for U.S. citizenship, understanding these changes to the naturalization test is essential to ensure a successful outcome. Applicants who file before the implementation date on October 20, 2025 will continue to take the 2008 version of the test.
USCIS’ Broader Context and Policy Direction: Why USCIS Is Updating the Naturalization Test
The 2025 naturalization civics test revision is only one element of a wider policy shift at USCIS. The agency has also announced measures aimed at ensuring that new citizens meet all statutory requirements and demonstrate a full commitment to American civic life. These include:
- Stricter Evaluation of Disability Exceptions: Requests for exemptions from the English and civics requirements of the naturalization process will be reviewed more closely.
- Expanded Review of Good Moral Character: Examiners will now assess not only whether an applicant has avoided disqualifying conduct but also whether they have made positive contributions to their community.
- Reinstated Background Verifications: USCIS has indicated it will resume local investigations to confirm applicants’ eligibility and verify information provided during the naturalization process.
- Clarified Disqualifications: Acts such as unlawful voting, false claims of U.S. citizenship, or illegal voter registration will continue to disqualify applicants from naturalization.
These USCIS policy updates reflect a more rigorous approach to the naturalization process, emphasizing civic knowledge, lawful conduct, and integrity in every citizenship application.
Naturalization Guidance for Applicants: How to Prepare for the New Naturalization Policy Changes
For individuals planning to apply for naturalization, timing and preparation will be essential under the new naturalization framework:
- File Before the Deadline: Eligible applicants who submit Form N-400 before October 20, 2025, may take the current 2008 civics test, which involves fewer questions and a lower passing threshold.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Applicants filing after the effective date should expect a more comprehensive examination and begin studying early using official USCIS materials.
- Document Positive Contributions: Since USCIS now places greater emphasis on an applicant’s moral character, maintaining records of community involvement, tax compliance, and volunteer work can be beneficial.
- Consult with an Immigration Attorney: Given the increased scrutiny and procedural changes, consulting an immigration attorney can help ensure that your case is properly prepared and filed.
Immigration Attorney Insight
At Burgos Law, we assist individuals and families at every stage of the immigration process—including naturalization and citizenship. The 2025 civics test and accompanying policy changes represent a significant shift toward a more rigorous review process. While the new requirements may increase the complexity of the application, they also underscore the importance of careful preparation and accurate legal guidance.
If you are considering applying for U.S. citizenship or have questions about how the upcoming test changes may affect your case, our firm can help you navigate each step with clarity and confidence. Burgos Law’s experienced immigration attorneys offer personalized support for citizenship applications, naturalization interviews, and complex USCIS filings.
As an immigration law firm serving clients nationwide, Burgos Law provides comprehensive legal support for naturalization, citizenship, and all employment- and investment-based immigration matters.
Contact Burgos Law to schedule a strategy session and receive personalized guidance on your path to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Written by Attorney Alice Burgos, founder of Burgos Law.
Attorney Burgos is an experienced U.S. immigration attorney who focuses her practice on employment-based, investor, and family-based immigration, including naturalization and citizenship matters. With years of experience guiding clients through the USCIS process, she helps individuals and families achieve lawful permanent residency and U.S. citizenship with strategic, compassionate, and detail-oriented representation.
Her insight on the 2025 naturalization civics test changes reflects her deep understanding of federal immigration policy and her firm’s commitment to keeping clients informed and prepared for every stage of their immigration journey.