Proving an Understanding and Knowledge of U.S. History for Citizenship
By Brian in Citizenship & Naturalization | on 2023-12-07 16:56:32
To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must first apply. Your application is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application must be accompanied by evidence to show that you are eligible for citizenship. As part of the naturalization process, you must also take and pass a naturalization exam. A common question we hear from clients at J. Sparks Law is: What is this exam about, and what does a person need to know to succeed?
The naturalization exam, which is also known as the “citizenship test,” is designed to make sure the person applying for citizenship has a basic understanding of U.S. history. The exam also tests the applicant’s basic ability to speak and write in English.
The U.S. History Component of the Naturalization Exam.
To pass the U.S. history citizenship test, you must be able to show enough knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government. The exam has ten questions, of which you must correctly answer at least six of the questions to pass.
These questions are listed in the study materials provided by USCIS, but the immigration officer testing you will randomly select the questions.
Preparing for the U.S. Citizenship Test
To make sure that you pass this test, it is important that you prepare, and a citizenship attorney can help. As in taking any test, preparation requires studying the relevant information. The following are good tips you can follow in preparing to take and pass the exam:
- Download Study Materials – To make it easy for all applicants, the USCIS provides various resources you can use to study for the exam. You can find these resources here. Download and print the study materials available on this USCIS website and use them to study for the exam.
- Make Time for Studying – The information provided on U.S. history you need to know is not complex, but you need to take time and study the information. Make sure you do this well ahead of your scheduled time for your interview. The best time to do this is right after you receive your interview letter. However, it is a good idea to start studying this material even before you receive your interview letter.
- Take Several Practice Tests – The study materials provided on the USCIS website above provide common questions asked for the U.S. citizenship test. Whether you have printed the questions or you prefer to study them online, practice answering the questions. You should do this several times, even when you think you know the answers to all of them. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect.
Keep in mind the citizenship exam has two main components, and U.S. history is just one of them. The other component is your ability to read, speak, and write in English. So, as you are taking the U.S. history citizenship exam, you are also being tested for your basic understanding, reading, and writing in English.
Speak with Our Austin Citizenship Attorneys
If you are in the Austin area and are applying for citizenship, contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help you.
