President Donald Trump’s administration has expanded the U.S. naturalization civics test, doubling the number of questions immigrants must answer to become American citizens. Under the direction of USCIS Deputy Director Joseph Edlow, the revised test aims to ensure deeper understanding of American history and constitutional principles.
The change aligns with Trump’s executive order titled “Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats.” The revised civics test increases the number of questions from 10 to 20. To pass, applicants must now answer at least 12 correctly, up from the previous six. The questions remain orally administered and cover U.S. history, government structure, and foundational principles.
A federal notice explains the intent behind the update: “These changes balance the need of USCIS to ascertain the aliens’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of American history, and of the principles and form of government of the United States.” The change is aimed at reinforcing national identity and encouraging assimilation.
The policy applies to all immigrants who filed for naturalization on or after October 20. The goal is to ensure legal immigrants are well-prepared to take on the responsibilities of American citizenship.
In an August interview, Edlow made clear the administration’s reasoning. “It’s important for people to understand English, it’s important for people to understand our history and our government,” he said. “The way the test is written right now and the way it is executed right now, it’s just a little too easy.”
The changes follow a broader Trump-era push to prioritize legal immigration while securing the country against potential threats. The tougher test reinforces an immigration policy centered on national security, integration, and respect for the Constitution.
