USCIS appointments
What happens, what to take, and what to avoid.
N-400 Naturalization Interview
20-30 minutesThe naturalization interview includes an English language test (reading and writing), a civics test (U.S. history and government), and a review of your N-400 application. Passing all three parts is required for approval.
What happens
- 1Arrive at the USCIS field office and check in with your appointment notice
- 2Wait in the lobby until an officer calls your name
- 3The officer will place you under oath to tell the truth
- 4English Reading Test: You will be asked to read 1-3 sentences in English aloud
- 5English Writing Test: The officer will dictate 1-3 sentences for you to write in English
- 6Civics Test: You will be asked up to 10 questions about U.S. history and government -- you must answer 6 correctly
- 7Application Review: The officer goes through your N-400 page by page, asking about travel, employment, and eligibility
- 8The officer will inform you of the result: approved, continued, or denied
Take with you
Before the day
- 1
Study the 100 civics questions4-8 weeks before
Learn all 100 official USCIS civics questions and answers. You need to answer 6 out of 10 correctly. Use the Civics Prep feature in this app.
- 2
Practice English reading and writing4-8 weeks before
Practice reading simple sentences aloud and writing dictated sentences. Review the USCIS reading and writing vocabulary lists.
- 3
Review your N-400 application thoroughly2 weeks before
Go through every question on your filed N-400. Be prepared to explain any answers, especially about travel, employment, and background questions.
- 4
Compile your travel history2 weeks before
Create a detailed list of every trip outside the US since becoming a permanent resident, including exact departure and return dates.
- 5
Gather all documents1 week before
Organize all required documents in a folder. Bring originals and copies. Check that nothing is expired.
- 6
Do a practice interview3 days before
Have someone ask you the N-400 questions as the officer would. Practice answering in complete sentences.
- 7
Arrive early and stay calmDay of
Plan your route, arrive 30 minutes early. Dress neatly. Bring your documents in an organized folder.
What people get wrong
- Not studying the civics questions enough -- this is the most common reason for failure
- Being unable to recall exact travel dates -- prepare a detailed travel log
- Inconsistent answers between your application and your interview statements
- Not disclosing arrests or legal issues, even minor traffic violations
- Failing to update USCIS about changes (new address, new marriage, etc.) since filing
- Not bringing required documents like tax returns or travel records
- Underestimating the English test -- practice reading and writing beforehand
Afterwards
If approved, you will be scheduled for an oath ceremony -- sometimes the same day If your case needs further review, check your case status online regularly If you failed the English or civics test, study for your retake in 60-90 days Do not make any international travel plans until after your oath ceremony Continue to maintain good moral character until your oath ceremony If you received an N-652 (results form), keep it safe -- it documents your interview outcome
Worth knowing
- Use the Civics Test Prep feature in this app to study all 100 questions with flashcards
- You get two chances to pass the English and civics tests -- if you fail, you can retake within 60-90 days
- The English test is basic -- you only need to read and write simple sentences
- For the civics test, you only need 6 out of 10 correct answers
- Know your travel dates precisely -- this is a very common area of questioning
- If you are over 65 and have been a permanent resident for 20+ years, you may qualify for special consideration on the civics test
- If you are over 55 and have been a permanent resident for 15+ years, you may take the civics test in your native language
- Answer questions honestly -- immigration fraud can permanently bar you from citizenship
- If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to explain
- Bring all passports, even expired ones, to verify your travel history
Questions
What happens if I fail the civics or English test?
You will be rescheduled for a second attempt within 60-90 days. You only need to retake the portion you failed. If you fail again, your application will be denied, but you can reapply.
How long after the interview will I know the result?
In many cases, the officer will tell you at the end of the interview whether you passed. If approved, you will be scheduled for an oath ceremony, sometimes the same day. Some cases require additional review.
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, you have the right to bring an attorney to the interview at your own expense. The attorney can observe and advise you but cannot answer questions for you.
What if I have been outside the US for a long time?
Extended trips (over 6 months) can break your continuous residence requirement. Trips over 1 year generally reset the clock. Bring documentation explaining any long absences.
Are there accommodations for disabilities?
Yes. You can request disability accommodations by filing Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions). This must be completed by a licensed medical professional.
What are the most common civics questions asked?
Questions vary, but common ones include: Who is the President? What is the supreme law of the land? How many senators are there? What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence? Name one branch of government.
If you cannot attend, reschedule before the date on your notice — not turning up without rescheduling can have an application treated as abandoned. Find your office on the offices page.