Pillar · test-version decoder
Civics test 2025 vs. 2008 — which one applies?
On October 20, 2025, USCIS began administering a new 128-question civics test for naturalization. Whether you take the new test or the older 2008 test depends on when you filed Form N-400 — not when your interview is scheduled.
USCIS is implementing the 2025 naturalization civics test to align with Executive Order 14161. Aliens who file Form N-400 to apply for naturalization before Oct. 20, 2025, will take the 2008 naturalization civics test. Aliens who file Form N-400 to apply for naturalization on or after Oct. 20, 2025, will take the 2025 test.Side-by-side comparison
| Element | 2008 test | 2025 test |
|---|---|---|
| Total questions | 100 | 128 |
| Questions asked at interview | up to 10 | 20 |
| Pass threshold | 6 of 10 | 12 of 20 |
| Applies when | N-400 filed before Oct. 20, 2025 | N-400 filed on or after Oct. 20, 2025 |
| Senior 65/20 subset size | 20 questions (asterisked in PDF) | 20 questions (star-marked in M-1778) |
| Study guide PDF | 100Q PDF (rev. 08/21) | M-1778 PDF (09/25) |
| Browse on this site | All 100 questions → | All 128 questions → |
Decode your case
Tell us your N-400 filing date, age, LPR years, and disability status — we'll show which version, which question bank, and which exception applies.
Which civics test do you take?
Tell us when you filed your N-400, your age, your years as a lawful permanent resident, and whether you have a qualifying disability. We'll show you which civics test version applies and which question bank to study.
The senior 65/20 wrinkle
Senior 65/20 is not a third test version — it's a 20-question subset OF the underlying 2008 or 2025 test, determined by your N-400 filing date. The asterisked (or star-marked) questions in the official USCIS PDFs are the senior subset.
Statute pins
- 8 CFR §312.2 — Civics knowledge requirement — the regulation that establishes the civics knowledge requirement for naturalization.
- USCIS test-updates page (rev. 09/18/2025) — implementation announcement of the 2025 test cutover.