Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The three English parts
From the USCIS naturalization interview and test page. USCIS says you must show you can read, write and speak basic English. Its Reading and Writing Test Vocabulary Lists focus on civics and history topics.
| Part | What USCIS asks |
|---|---|
| Speaking | Judged by the USCIS officer during your Form N-400 eligibility interview |
| Reading | Read aloud 1 out of 3 sentences correctly |
| Writing | Write 1 out of 3 sentences correctly |
| Civics (separate) | 2025 test for N-400s filed on or after 20 Oct 2025: 20 questions, 12 correct to pass |
If you do not pass
USCIS gives two attempts at the English and civics tests. If you fail a part at the first interview, you are retested on that part between 60 and 90 days from the initial interview (USCIS).
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Who is exempt from the English part
The USCIS exceptions page says you are exempt from English, but still take the civics test (in your own language with an interpreter), if you are 50 or older at filing with 20 years as a permanent resident ("50/20"), or 55 or older with 15 years ("55/15"). Applicants 65 or older with at least 20 years as a permanent resident get special consideration on civics.
A physical or developmental disability or mental impairment can qualify for an exception to English and civics using Form N-648, completed by a licensed medical or osteopathic doctor or licensed clinical psychologist. Rules change, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current requirement on the USCIS naturalization test page before you book a test or apply. This guide restates the official page; it is not legal or immigration advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need IELTS for US citizenship?+
No. USCIS tests English itself during the naturalization interview: speaking, reading one of three sentences and writing one of three sentences.
How many sentences must I read for the US citizenship test?+
You must read aloud one out of three sentences correctly.
What happens if I fail the English test?+
You are retested on the part you failed between 60 and 90 days after your first interview. USCIS gives two attempts.
Who can skip the English test?+
Applicants 50 or older with 20 years as a permanent resident, or 55 or older with 15 years, and those approved for a medical disability exception with Form N-648.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for the USA
- IELTS vs TOEFL for the USA
- IELTS for Canadian citizenship
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- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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