USCIS Announces New Citizenship Test and Requirement Changes Starting October 2025

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is rolling out significant changes to the citizenship application process, effective October 20, 2025. This includes a new civics test and additional proof of ‘good moral character’ for applicants.

The updated civics test will require applicants to answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly, an increase from the previous standard of six correct answers out of 10. The questions will cover U.S. history and government, drawn from a pool of 128 questions. Special provisions remain for those aged 65 or older who have held green cards for at least 20 years, allowing them to answer only 6 of 10 questions.

USCIS officials emphasized that this new policy aims to strengthen the integrity of the naturalization process. Matthew Tragesser, a spokesperson for USCIS, stated, ‘American citizenship is the most sacred citizenship in the world and should only be reserved for aliens who will fully embrace our values and principles as a nation.’

The evaluation of an applicant’s moral character will also be more rigorous. In addition to examining criminal history, officers may conduct ‘neighborhood investigations’ to see if the applicant positively contributes to society.

These changes come as part of ongoing reforms in U.S. immigration policies under the Biden administration, further emphasizing the commitment to ensure that those seeking citizenship adhere to American values. Applications filed after October 20 will take the new test, while those submitted earlier will be evaluated under the previous system.

USCIS has promised to release updated study materials to help applicants prepare for the new test format.