Changes are coming to the U.S. citizenship test. It’s an experiment covering two areas
The U.S. citizenship test may be changing.
But first, there will be a test run for a part of the test, according to an announcement by the Department of Homeland Security through a notification in the Federal Register.
The trial test will roll out over a five-month period in 2023. Virtual testing will begin Jan. 23, according to the notification in the Federal Register.
What are the changes to the U.S. citizenship test?
The current naturalization test consists of four parts: reading, writing, civics, and ability to speak English.
The first two parts, reading and writing, which are standard tests, won’t change.
Here’s what will change, at least during the trial:
The trial will focus on civic education (which assesses knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and the principles and forms of U.S. government) and the English language comprehension and speaking ability test.
READ MORE: Residents with green cards now have one less hurdle during U.S. citizenship process
Why is there a trial test for citizenship?
Experts in U.S. citizenship have recommended improving the standards of the English oral expression and civic education exams.
These experts are in charge of redesigning the changes. All of these updates are based on their feedback.
“The naturalization test is a key step in becoming a U.S. citizen,” Ur M. Jaddou, director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said in a statement.
“We welcome input from and the participation of stakeholders who are familiar with this important process, as we continue to improve and update our naturalization test, ensuring that it is consistent with industry testing standards.”
USCIS seeks volunteers for experimental citizenship test
USCIS will administer the trial test with the help of community organizations working with immigrant students who are learning English and permanent residents preparing for U.S. citizenship.
For the trial, the federal agency is looking for 1,500 people enrolled in adult education classes to take the test. Participation in the trial is voluntary.
How to have your say on the tests
The experimental exams will not affect naturalization applications filed with USCIS during the trial period, the Federal Register notice says.
USCIS says that any permanent changes will be announced through a separate notice in the Federal Register after the trial period.
The agency has also indicated that it will invite interested groups to submit comments in writing on all aspects of the nationwide experimental test. Comments can be sent by email to: natzredesign22@uscis.dhs.gov.
