People who want to become United States citizens have to complete a lengthy process. Naturalization requires paperwork. Immigrants must submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
They have to undergo a background check. They may need to attend a biometrics appointment. They also have to attend an interview conducted by the USCIS. At that interview, they answer questions about their desire for citizenship. They also have to pass two tests administered by the USCIS.
Immigrants have to prove their proficiency in the English language and pass a test in civics. Civics covers both information about the government and United States history. Immigrants hoping to become citizens only have one chance to retake the naturalization test if they fail.
How can immigrants prepare for the naturalization test?
With USCIS study materials
The USCIS provides helpful resources for immigrants who want to become citizens. United States history covers centuries of major events. No one person could possibly learn every detail about domestic history. Therefore, the USCIS has a limited list of questions that the interviewer can ask during the civics test.
Immigrants can study the full list of 100 questions to ensure they know the information necessary to pass the test. The civics test is a verbal test, and immigrants must answer at least six out of 10 questions correctly to pass. The USCIS also provides vocabulary resources for those studying for the English language test.
In addition to memorizing vocabulary terms, immigrants may want to engage in language immersion practice. By speaking with others in English, they can improve their own skills. Many community colleges offer courses that can help people hone their skills.
With special support
If immigrants have disabling medical conditions, they may qualify for testing accommodations. The USCIS can offer a variety of different testing support to those with medically documented needs. Older adults who have lived in the country for years may also be eligible for exemptions. They may not need to take the English test and could take the civics test in their primary language.
Individuals hoping to become United States citizens may need help as they prepare for the naturalization process. Preparing for the tests months in advance can increase an immigrant’s chances of passing and becoming a citizen.