US civics test study guide
The civics test is oral. You must say the answers out loud. This plan mixes reading, speaking and scored practice for four weeks.
Before you start
- Find your test version. N-400 filed before October 20, 2025: the 2008 test (100 questions). Filed on or after that date: the 2025 test (128 questions).
- Learn the pass rule. 2025: 12 correct answers of 20. 2008: 6 of 10.
- If you are 65 or older with 20 years as a permanent resident, you can study 20 questions. See the 65/20 list.
- Choose your state for the local answers. State answer pages.
The four-week plan
| Week | Goal | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Read everything once | Read the full question list. Do not try to memorise yet. Note the difficult topics. |
| Week 2 | Learn by topic | Study one section per day: American Government, American History, Symbols and Holidays. Use the questions page filters. |
| Week 3 | Say the answers out loud | Use flashcards and the audio mode. Say every answer aloud. |
| Week 4 | Test yourself | Take the test simulation every day. Review missed questions. |
Study methods that work
Say answers out loud
The real test is speaking, not writing. Reading silently is not enough. Say every answer with a full sentence when you can.
Group the numbers
Many questions have number answers: 100 senators, 435 representatives, 27 amendments, 9 justices, 13 stripes, 50 stars. Learn them as one group.
Use short lists
Questions that ask for two or three items, such as Cabinet positions or holidays, need a small memorised list. Pick items that are easy for you to remember.
Repeat on separate days
Space your study across days. Two short sessions on two days work better than one long session.
Check the changing answers
Names of officials change. Read answers that change close to your interview date.
Practice the interview
Ask a friend or family member to read the questions while you answer. That is closer to the real test.
Official USCIS study materials
- 128 Civics Questions and Answers (2025 version, M-1778, PDF)
- Civics Questions and Answers (2008 version, PDF)
- USCIS 2025 Civics Test Study Guide (PDF)
- A More Perfect Union: Civics Textbook (PDF)
- USCIS: Find study materials and resources
Official documents belong to USCIS. This site copies the question text only. See the data notes.