What Questions Are Asked in the US Citizenship Interview?

Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most significant steps in any immigrant's life. The U.S. citizenship interview is a crucial part of this process, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared. The interview is designed to assess both your knowledge of U.S. history, civics, and government, as well as your English language skills and your personal eligibility for naturalization.

But what exactly happens during the interview? What types of questions will you be asked? The answers to these questions can feel like the key to your future, so let’s dive right in.

The Structure of the Citizenship Interview

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer will ask you a range of questions during your interview. This process is split into a few parts:

1. English Language Test
2. Civics Test
3. Review of Your Application

Each section serves a different purpose, and understanding the types of questions asked in each will ensure you're prepared. The interview typically lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, though it can vary based on individual circumstances.

Part 1: English Language Test

The first part of the interview will test your English language skills. You will be asked to speak, read, and write in English. The USCIS officer will evaluate your ability to communicate in English, and this is done in three ways:

1. Speaking and Understanding

Throughout the interview, the officer will be speaking in English, and they’ll evaluate your ability to understand and respond to questions in English. The speaking test is not a separate exam but is evaluated based on how you answer the questions related to your application.

Typical questions include:

• What is your full name?
• Have you ever used any other names?
• Where do you live?
• What is your current job?
• Have you traveled outside the U.S. in the last five years?
• Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen?

While these questions seem straightforward, your ability to answer them clearly is essential. You should practice speaking about your background, employment, and daily life in English before the interview.

2. Reading

You will be given three sentences to read in English. You only need to read one sentence correctly for this part. The sentences are usually related to U.S. history or civics. You will have time to practice reading beforehand, but here are a few sample sentences you might encounter:

• Who was George Washington?
• What is the capital of the United States?
• When is Independence Day?

3. Writing

In addition to reading, you will be asked to write one out of three sentences correctly in English. The sentences are usually simple and based on basic civics. For example:

• The President lives in the White House.
• Congress meets in Washington, D.C.
• Citizens vote in November.

Part 2: The Civics Test

The civics test consists of questions about U.S. government, history, and geography. There are 100 possible questions in this section, and during your interview, the officer will ask up to 10 questions from this pool. You need to answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.

Here’s a breakdown of the areas covered in the civics test:

U.S. History

The history questions revolve around key moments and figures in American history. Expect questions on:

• The American Revolution
  • Who wrote the Declaration of Independence?
• The Civil War
  • What was one important thing that Abraham Lincoln did?
• Recent History
  • What major event happened on September 11, 2001?

U.S. Government

This section tests your knowledge of how the U.S. government functions. Questions include:

• What are the three branches of government?
• Who is the current President of the United States?
• What does the Constitution do?

Geography and Symbols

You’ll also be asked about U.S. geography and national symbols. For example:

• What is the capital of your state?
• What is the longest river in the United States?
• Why does the flag have 13 stripes?

Part 3: Application Review and Personal Questions

In this section, the USCIS officer will go over the answers you provided in your Form N-400, the application for naturalization. Be prepared to discuss:

• Your travel history: They will ask about trips you've taken outside of the U.S. in the past five years.
• Your marital status: You may be asked about your spouse’s immigration status and history.
• Your employment history: You should be ready to discuss where you have worked over the past five years.
• Criminal background: If you have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime, you will need to explain the circumstances. Even if a crime was minor or expunged, it may still come up during the interview.

If there are any inconsistencies between what you say in the interview and what is on your application, this could cause delays or even lead to a denial of your application. It's important to be honest and forthcoming during this part of the interview.

Key Tips for Success

While knowing what questions will be asked is important, it’s just as critical to understand how to prepare and approach the interview.

1. Practice Civics Questions

The civics test covers a broad range of topics, but you don’t have to memorize everything. The 100 questions are available in study guides provided by USCIS, and many people find it helpful to use flashcards or apps to quiz themselves.

2. Work on Your English Skills

If English isn’t your first language, practice speaking, reading, and writing every day. Even just practicing basic conversations with friends or family can help.

3. Review Your Application Thoroughly

Make sure you remember what you wrote in your N-400 application. If there are any changes (such as a new address or job), inform the USCIS officer during your interview.

4. Bring Necessary Documents

You should bring copies of all the documents listed in your appointment notice. This may include:

• Your green card
• Passport
• Marriage certificate
• Documents related to any legal issues

5. Stay Calm

It’s natural to feel nervous, but try to stay calm. The USCIS officer isn’t there to trick you; their goal is to determine whether you meet the requirements for citizenship. If you don’t understand a question, politely ask the officer to repeat or clarify it.

What Happens If You Fail?

If you fail any portion of the interview—whether it’s the English test or the civics test—you will be given a second opportunity. The USCIS will reschedule a new interview, usually within 60 to 90 days. If you fail a second time, your application for naturalization may be denied, but you have the option to appeal the decision.

A Life-Changing Interview

Passing the U.S. citizenship interview is a huge milestone. It's not just a test; it's the final step on your path to becoming a U.S. citizen. Being prepared will give you the best chance to succeed. Good luck!

Whether it's answering questions about U.S. history or confidently discussing your personal background, preparation is the key to unlocking your American dream.