USCIS Redesign of Naturalization Test Crashes and Burns

 Posted on January 08, 2025 in naturalization & citizenship

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced it was scrapping the new version of the naturalization test. After introducing the new design, criticism from all directions caused the agency to reinstate the old test, at least for the time being. USCIS began the redesign in 2022 to reduce undue barriers to taking the naturalization test. According to the feedback, the new test had the exact opposite effect, resulting in the proposed new test being terminated.

Immigration is a complex issue, with many different pathways to living and working in the U.S. on a visa and becoming a U.S. citizen. The citizenship test is one of the final stages of the naturalization process. The current test has two parts – a civics test to assess the applicant’s knowledge of U.S. history and government and an English test to assess the applicant’s speaking, writing, and reading abilities. Those seeking to become U.S. citizens should speak to an experienced Plano, TX immigration attorney to determine the necessary steps in the process.

What Were the Changes to the Naturalization Test by the USCIS?

The first change to the naturalization test was to the speaking portion. Three color photographs were shown to applicants, who were then asked to describe the photographs' "depictions of everyday life." The current naturalization test requires that applicants answer questions regarding their eligibility for citizenship as a means of testing speaking ability.

The second change to the naturalization test offers ten multiple-choice questions, requiring applicants to select the best answer from four choices. During the current test, an immigration officer reads questions about United States history and government out loud. To pass the test, the applicant must answer at least six out of 10 questions correctly.  

The USCIS received more than 1,300 public comments regarding the redesigned test, with the vast majority opposing the changes. Many people noted that the new test required more preparation than the old one and offered a less effective way to evaluate English proficiency.

Others said the new test required higher-level vocabulary and reading comprehension skills and provided extra challenges for adult learners with lower reading skills, creating additional obstacles for those with little formal education. The USCIS will continue using the 2008 version of the test, at least for now.  

What is Involved in the Naturalization Process?

The process of gaining U.S. citizenship through naturalization is far from simple. The basic process is that an applicant must have a green card, which signifies lawful permanent residence in the U.S. An application for naturalization must be filed, and then the applicant must interview with a USCIS officer. An English and civics test must be passed, and then an oath of allegiance to the United States must be taken. Requirements include:

• The individual must be at least 18 years old.
• The applicant must have been a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. for a minimum of five years prior to applying for naturalization.
• The applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of those five years or 18 months out of three years for those married to a U.S. citizen.
• The applicant must be of good moral character and must be able to understand and speak English.
• The applicant is expected to demonstrate a basic understanding of the Constitution and U.S. history.

Each applicant will undergo a background check during the process. The requirement for understanding and speaking English is waived for certain applicants over the age of 50. A biometrics appointment, which includes fingerprints, is part of the background check. An applicant who has committed certain crimes may be barred from the naturalization process. The application fee is approximately $760.   

Contact a Dallas, TX Immigration Lawyer

If you have questions regarding the naturalization test, a Plano, TX immigration lawyer from Law Office of Jae Lee can help. We can work with clients remotely or in person, offering one-on-one guidance. Attorney Lee’s parents went through the immigration process, making him especially knowledgeable about every aspect of immigration. Call 214-295-3014 to schedule a free consultation.