Which civics test do I take: 2008 or 2025?
One date decides it: the date USCIS received your N-400 (on your receipt notice). Before October 20, 2025 means the 2008 test; on or after that day means the 2025 test.
The two versions side by side
| 2008 test | 2025 test | |
|---|---|---|
| You filed the N-400… | before Oct 20, 2025 | on or after Oct 20, 2025 |
| Question list | 100 questions | 128 questions |
| Questions asked | up to 10 | up to 20 |
| To pass | 6 correct | 12 correct |
| Stops at | 6 right or 5 wrong | 12 right or 9 wrong |
| 65/20 | 10 of the 20 starred; pass with 6 | 10 of the 20 starred; pass with 6 |
| Reading and writing | read 1 of 3 sentences, write 1 of 3 | same: read 1 of 3, write 1 of 3 |
What didn't change
- It's oral: the officer asks in English and you answer out loud. There are no multiple-choice options.
- Reading and writing in English stay the same, with the same word lists. See the words and sentences
- If you fail a part, you get a second appointment 60 to 90 days later, only for that part.
Common questions
I filed in September 2025 and my interview is in 2026. Which test?
The 2008 test. What counts is when USCIS received your N-400, not the interview date.
Can I choose the 2025 test?
No. Your filing date decides. Many questions overlap, though: 79 of the 100 from 2008 are also on the 2025 list.
What if I'm 65 or older?
If you also had 20+ years as a resident when you filed, you're asked 10 of the 20 starred questions and pass with 6, in your language.
Official sources:
- USCIS · 2025 Civics Test (updated 09/17/2025) ↗ · checked October 16, 2026
- USCIS Policy Manual, Vol. 12, Part E, Ch. 2 (current as of Oct 2, 2026) ↗ · checked October 16, 2026