The Test

A Selected Chapter From Citizenship Made Simple, An Easy to Read Guide to the U.S. Citizenship Process (2nd Edition)

Barbara Brooks Kimmel and Alan M. Lubiner, Immigration Attorney

In Order to become a United States citizen, you must first prove that you can read, write and speak English, and that you have a basic understanding of the history and government of the United States.

Note: Some people are exempt from the English requirement because of age and ling residence in the U.S., or because of a medically certified physical disability. If you have been a permanent resident of the United States for at least fifteen years or you have a physical disability; consult with an Immigration Lawyer to see if ou might quailify for an exemption.

When you are called in for an interview at the INS, the Immigration Examiner will speak to you in English. He or she will ask you all the questions that are contained on the Form N-400 that you completed. You must show that you understand what the Examiner is asking, and you must answer the questions in English.

You will be asked to write at least one sentence in English and possibly more if the Examiner has doubts about your ability to write in English. There are no standard sentences. The Examiner will use his or her discretion in determining what to ask, basing their decision on your level of education and background.

You will also be tested on your understanding of the history and government of the United States. The INS Examinier does not expect you to have the knowledge of a college professor, but you are expected to understand our system of government and how it works, how and why our country was founded, and important events in the history of the United States.

The questions you will be asked will usually be taken from the list found in Chapter 12. If you study and learn the questions and answers on that list, you should easily pass the test.

The U.S. Government publishes free study guides, and your Public Library may also have study materials. Ask your librarian for help in finding a book that will aid you in preparing for the U.S. Citizenship test. You can also enroll in a study course given by your local High School or Community College Adult Education Department. Enrollment in such a course in highly recommended for those who do not feel certain about their ability to pass the U.S.Citizenship test.

The application must be approved or denied within four months of the interview. Assuming it is approved, the final swearing-in ceremony will be held the same day, or at a later date, depending on the current procedure at your local INS office. At the time of the swearing-in ceremony, the applicant is required to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America (see complete text in Chapter 4), and sign this oath.

You will then be given a Certificate of Naturalization. With this document, you can obtain a U.S. passport. See Chapter 15 for addresses of U.S. Passport Ofices.

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