2008 vs 2025 U.S. civics test: what changed?
A side-by-side guide to the current USCIS civics-test versions, including the filing-date cutoff and passing rules.
USCIS currently uses two civics-test versions. The one assigned to you depends on when you filed Form N-400, not on personal preference.
Which version applies to me?
| 2008 civics test | 2025 civics test | |
|---|---|---|
| N-400 filing date | Before October 20, 2025 | On or after October 20, 2025 |
| Question bank | 100 questions | 128 questions |
| Questions asked in the interview | Up to 10 | Up to 20 |
| Correct answers needed | 6 | 12 |
| Passing percentage | 60% | 60% |
The passing percentage did not change, but the newer version requires more preparation because the question pool is larger and the officer may ask more questions.
Are the questions completely different?
No. The 2025 version still overlaps a lot with the older 2008 version. The main differences are:
- 28 additional questions
- Some updated wording
- A few broader answer sets for certain topics
What about the 65/20 special consideration?
Applicants who qualify for 65/20 still study a smaller list of 20 starred questions and answer 10 of them during the interview, with 6 correct answers needed to pass.
Can I choose which version I want?
No. USCIS ties the civics version to your filing date. The safest approach is to confirm the date on your receipt notice and study only the correct set.
Smart study advice
- Do not split your energy between both tests
- Review current names for elected officials close to your interview date
- Use official USCIS study materials so your wording matches the real test
Official links:
CiudadanoUSA includes both civics versions, so you can choose the one that matches your N-400 filing date and study only the questions that apply to you. Download it here.