New 2025 U.S. Naturalization Civics Test: What’s Changing, When It Starts, and How to Prepare

If you’re planning to apply for U.S. citizenship, big news: USCIS has implemented a new naturalization civics test for certain applicants. Below I break down what’s changing, who’s affected, and how to get ready, and plus a quick roundup of other recent naturalization policy updates that could impact your case.

What's changing with the naturalization civics test:

USCIS is re-implementing a civics test format with 20 oral questions drawn from a bank of 128 questions. You must answer at least 12 correctly to pass. The office will stop once you’ve answered 12 correctly or 9 incorrectly. This is in contrast to the current naturalization civics exam which is 10 questions drawn from a bank of 100 possible questions, and you must get at least 6 correct to pass.

Who the naturalization civics test affects:

N-400s filed on or after October 20, 2025 will use the 2025 civics test. If you file before Oct. 20, 2025, the 2008 test (10 questions, pass 6) still applies to you. Also, keep in mind that the exemption for certain older applicants will still apply: If you are 65 years old or older and have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for 20 or more years, USCIS will continue to administer a test with 10 questions from a specially selected bank of 20 test questions from either the 2008 or 2025 test, based on when you file Form N-400. In addition, the test can be in the language of your choice.

In addition, an applicant is still exempt from the English language requirement (but they still have to take the civics exam), if they are:

• Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident (Green Card holder) in the United States for 20 years (commonly referred to as the “50/20” exception).
  OR
• Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years (commonly referred to as the “55/15” exception).

The naturalization civics test will continue to be given orally, and the officer will stop at 12 correct answers, or 9 incorrect answers.

Other recent naturalization changes to keep in mind:

USCIS has been clear this is part of a multi-step overhaul of citizenship standards. Here are three policy areas that have shifted in 2025 (and more may be coming!):

Medical exceptions (Form N-648) – tighter process

On June 13, 2025, USCIS issued new guidance enhancing the integrity of the N-648 process (the medical certification for English/civics exceptions). Expect closer review of the medical basis, timing, and how the disability prevents testing. If you are filing the naturalization application and you're asking for a medical exception, it's critical that the N-648 is well-prepared, and that the information presented there is consistent with other available information, and is accurate.

Good Moral Character (GMC) – “rigorous, holistic” review

On Aug. 15, 2025, USCIS released a policy memorandum emphasizing a case-by-case, holistic evaluation of GMC, with applicants bearing the burden to show, by a preponderance of the evidence, that they meet the standard. Going forward, naturalization applicants may need to document positive factors (community engagement, compliance, responsibility) and address any negatives proactively.

Unlawful voter registration/voting & false claim to U.S. citizenship

On Aug. 29, 2025, USCIS updated the Policy Manual to underscore that unlawfully registering to vote, voting when ineligible, or making a false claim to U.S. citizenship can bar naturalization and may trigger removal proceedings.

What this means for you

• If you’re eligible now and prefer the 2008 test: Strongly consider filing before Oct. 20, 2025.
  
  
• If you file on or after Oct. 20, 2025: Build a study plan around the 128-question list and practice oral answers. When you study, make sure you're studying the correct version of the test.
  
  
• If you might need an N-648 (medical exemption form): Speak with your doctor and an attorney early to ensure the certification meets USCIS’s revised expectations.
  
  
• In general, prepare for more scrutiny in your naturalization application including good moral character. This may not be the time to file on your own. If you have you have any voting or status-claim issues in your past, or if you have a criminal history (even if the charges have been expunged or dismissed), speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before filing

How we can help

Thinking about applying for naturalization in the U.S.? It can be a power step forward in your U.S. immigration journey, and it can lead to wonderful things like being able to vote in the U.S., traveling with more security and confidence, and being able to sponsor family members, among other benefits. On the flip side, a mistake with the filing or filing when you should not have can lead to a delay, denial, or even removal proceedings. We can help you choose the right timing, help ensure you are eligible, prepare your N-400 form and package, and help you prepare for the naturalization interview. Schedule a consultation and let’s map out your path to U.S. citizenship with clarity and confidence. To learn more about the process and how we can support you, visit our Citizenship page.

If you are not yet a Sumner Immigration Law client and you’re looking for an experienced, empathetic, and efficient team to help you navigate the process with confidence, please contact us today to set up your initiation consultation to get the process started! You can set an appointment online. You can also call us at 804-214-7870 or send us an email at info@sumnerimmigration.com.

We are immigration lawyers in Richmond, VA, but we serve clients throughout the U.S. and around the world. For more information on our firm visit Who We Are and What Makes Us Different! We look forward to hearing from you!

As always, the above information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Please speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before taking action.