Jul 11, 2026 · 5 min · 6 segments
We'll be discussing what the new USCIS naturalization test changes mean for citizenship applicants. With the complexities of this process, be sure to stick around until the end to get a bonus tip that…
Now let's talk about what changed in 2025.
So two major components of the naturalization test were updated.
Speaking test format.
Now you must describe photos shown to you aloud using everyday vocabulary.
Second is a civics test format.
So previously 10 oral questions from a 100 question pool, six correct equals a pass.
Now it's consisting of 20 questions from a list of 128 civics test questions.
Now it requires 12 correct.
Why? To reduce subjective grading and align with modern test formats.
This test applies to anyone filing form N-400 on or after October 20th, 2025, which is the implementation date.
However, exemptions and accommodations are still available.
So English language exemption based on age and length of residency and medical waivers using form N-648.
Now let's talk about what changed in 2025.
So two major components of the naturalization test were updated.
Speaking test format.
Now you must describe photos shown to you aloud using everyday vocabulary.
Second is a civics test format.
So previously 10 oral questions from a 100 question pool, six correct equals a pass.
Now it's consisting of 20 questions from a list of 128 civics test questions.
Now it requires 12 correct.
Why? To reduce subjective grading and align with modern test formats.
This test applies to anyone filing form N-400 on or after October 20th, 2025, which is the implementation date.
However, exemptions and accommodations are still available.
So English language exemption based on age and length of residency and medical waivers using form N-648.
The rest of this transcript — segmented and speaker-labeled, so you land on the exact moment something was said
Search every transcript — by keyword, by phrase, or by meaning, across every show Radar indexes
Trends — what is surging across podcasts, measured against its own baseline
Alerts — when a name you follow appears in a newly indexed episode
No account is needed to search Radar.
