Start with the free USCIS question list for your test version. Add a textbook for explanations and English vocabulary practice if you must take the English test. A resource labeled “2026” can still contain the wrong question bank; check the edition inside it.
Choose the question list that matches your filing date
Under USCIS policy, N-400 filings before October 20, 2025 use the 2008 test. Filings on or after that date use the 2025 test. Applicants who qualify for 65/20 special consideration study the designated 20-question set for their version.
| Resource | Use it for |
|---|---|
| USCIS 128 questions and answers (2025 PDF) | The complete question bank and accepted answers for the standard 2025 test. |
| USCIS 100 questions and answers (2008 PDF) | The complete question bank for applicants who filed before the cutoff. |
| One Nation, One People: 2025 study guide | Background on government and history when a short answer needs explanation. |
| USCIS text-only resources | 2008 civics materials and English vocabulary for screen readers, enlargers, and Braille displays. Check the version before using a civics file. |
Use the guide to understand an answer
Read the official question, try an answer without looking, and compare it with the accepted responses. If you confuse Congress with the courts, use the textbook to review each branch's role before trying again.
The 2025 bank contains 28 more questions than the 2008 bank, a 28% increase. That calculation compares the official totals of 128 and 100; it does not measure difficulty. Avoid mixing pages from the two editions because wording and the number of answers requested can differ. See the USCIS 2025 resource page for the current downloads.
Add English reading, writing, and speaking
USCIS gives you up to three reading sentences and up to three writing sentences; you must complete one in each category. The officer evaluates spoken English through eligibility questions. The USCIS study page explains these requirements and offers English study materials.
Read a practice sentence aloud. Ask a study partner to dictate another sentence, then write it without copying. Use our reading and writing guide for the separate tasks; civics flashcards alone do not cover them.
Check changing answers before the interview
USCIS requires the name of the official serving on your interview date. Check the official test updates instead of relying on an old screenshot or printed book. Recheck your state and district answers if you move.
Keep a short list of questions you miss during spoken practice. Return to the official answer after each session. If you want audio practice alongside the PDFs, see the citizenship audiobook guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a citizenship study guide?
No. USCIS provides free question lists and study resources. You can use them with a study partner and add paid tools if you want other practice formats.
Can I use the 2008 study guide for the 2025 test?
Use the 2025 question list as your main source for the 2025 test. The editions share topics, but their question banks and some answer requirements differ.
Official Sources
Sources last checked .
- USCIS: Policy Manual, Volume 12, Part E, Chapter 2: English and Civics Testing
- USCIS: 128 Civics Questions and Answers, 2025 Civics Test (PDF)
- USCIS: 100 Civics Questions and Answers, 2008 Civics Test (PDF)
- USCIS: One Nation, One People: 2025 Civics Test Study Guide (PDF)
- USCIS: Citizenship Resources in Text-Only Format
- USCIS: 2025 Civics Test
- USCIS: Study for the Test
- USCIS: Check for Test Updates
Related Articles
- Citizenship Test Study Plan: 30 Days, 60 Days, 90 Days
- Do I Need to Memorize All 128 Citizenship Test Questions?
- Is There a U.S. Citizenship Test Audiobook? How to Study by Listening
- Best Apps for Citizenship Test Preparation
Practice with Citizenry
Answer interview questions out loud and get feedback in the app.
