If you hope to become a U.S. citizen, part of the immigration process involves attending a naturalization interview. This is one of the final steps of the immigration process.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, a USCIS officer will talk to you and ask questions about your immigration application and background during your naturalization interview. You will also need to take a naturalization test, which consists of an English test portion and a civics test portion.
The English and civics tests
During the English test, you must demonstrate your ability to speak, read and write English effectively. The USCIS officer conducting your interview will assess your ability to speak the English language during the interview process.
Following your English test, you will take the civics test in spoken format. Out of 128 potential questions, the USCIS officer will pick 20 to ask you. To pass, you must provide correct answers to at least 12 of the 20 questions the officer asks you.
If you do not pass
You get two chances to take and pass the English and civics test as part of the naturalization interview process. If you fail the interview, the English test or the civics test, you can retake that portion of the test within 60 to 90 days after the date of your first interview.
The interview, English test and civics test can be an intimidating part of the naturalization process, especially if English is not your first language. Take time to properly prepare before the date of your interview to elevate your chances of success.