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The 128 civics questions for the U.S. citizenship test (2025 version)

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What the 2025 civics test changed, how the 128-question pool is organized, and where to find the official USCIS list.

What the 2025 civics test changed, how the 128-question pool is organized, and where to find the official USCIS list.

If you filed Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025, USCIS generally assigns you the 2025 civics test. That version has 128 possible questions. During the interview, the officer can ask up to 20, and you need 12 correct answers to pass.

What changed compared with the older version?

The main differences are:

  • The study bank grew from 100 questions to 128
  • USCIS may ask up to 20 questions instead of 10
  • You now need 12 correct answers instead of 6
  • The officer stops once you reach 12 correct answers or 9 incorrect answers

The good news is that much of the content still overlaps with the older test. Many questions are familiar, with updated wording or added detail.

How the 128 questions are organized

USCIS groups the test into three broad areas:

1. U.S. government
This is the largest section. It covers the Constitution, branches of government, rights, responsibilities, and how laws are made.

2. U.S. history
This section covers major events, wars, important leaders, and turning points in American history.

3. Symbols and holidays
These questions cover the flag, patriotic symbols, national songs, and federal holidays.

Which answers depend on where you live?

Some civics answers change by state or district. Common examples include:

  • Your state governor
  • Your U.S. senators
  • Your state capital

Review those answers shortly before your interview so they are current.

Which answers can change after elections?

Some names can change over time, including:

  • The President
  • The Vice President
  • The Speaker of the House
  • The Chief Justice of the United States

Always check official USCIS study materials again before your appointment.

Do I have to memorize all 128 answers?

Not exactly. Some questions allow more than one acceptable answer. In those cases, you only need to memorize one or two valid answers and answer consistently.

A better way to study

  1. Start with government questions because that section is the largest.
  2. Study in blocks of 10 to 15 questions instead of trying to memorize everything in one sitting.
  3. Use English audio so the questions sound familiar when the officer says them out loud.
  4. Add Spanish support or bilingual flashcards if you understand the material better that way.

Where to find the official list

USCIS publishes the official 2025 study materials here:

If you qualify for the 65/20 special consideration, you may only need to study the 20 starred questions from the official list.


CiudadanoUSA includes bilingual practice for the 2025 question pool with audio, spaced review, and interview-style practice. Download it here.