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The US Citizenship Civics Test Gets an Update
In a significant shift in the immigration policy landscape, the U.S. government is making important changes to the US citizenship civics test that immigrants must pass to become American citizens. This new direction will reinstate an updated version of a test initially introduced during the Trump administration, which had been discontinued by the Biden administration amid concerns that it imposed unnecessary barriers for aspiring citizens.
What’s New in the Civics Test?
The updated civics test will require aspiring citizens to study a total of 128 questions about U.S. history, government, and civic values. Applicants will need to answer a minimum of 12 out of 20 questions correctly in an oral examination. Previously, the test, which had been in place since 2008, comprised just 100 questions, with applicants needing to answer 6 out of 10 correctly to pass.
Under the new guidelines, the test will now include questions on topics such as:
- The 10th Amendment
- The Federalist Papers
- Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Founding Fathers Alexander Hamilton and James Madison
- Examples of American innovation
This new civics test framework will be applicable to citizenship applications submitted after mid-October, as confirmed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Implications for Immigrants
The introduction of more complex questions is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to tighten the legal immigration process. This comes alongside other measures aimed at scrutinizing citizenship applications more rigorously, including reinstating “neighborhood checks.” This practice allows investigators to interview neighbors and co-workers of applicants to evaluate their suitability based on social character.
Matthew Tragesser, a spokesperson for USCIS, stated that the intention behind the updated civics test is to ensure that new citizens are fully assimilated and will contribute positively to America. He emphasized, “American citizenship is the most sacred citizenship in the world, and it should only be reserved for aliens who will fully embrace our values and principles as a nation.”
Concerns from Advocacy Groups
However, pro-immigrant advocates are voicing significant concerns regarding these changes. They argue that the increased complexity of the civics test makes it more challenging for long-term residents who actively contribute to society to obtain the protections that U.S. citizenship affords. Jennifer Ibañez Whitlock, a senior policy counsel at the National Immigration Law Center, commented, “All this does is make it harder for long-time residents who contribute to this country every day to finally achieve the permanent protections that only U.S. citizenship can offer.”
As these changes unfold, it becomes crucial for applicants to prepare adequately for the new civics test format. Understanding the historical and political context of the questions included in the test will be key for success.
The Bigger Picture in U.S. Immigration Policy
These adjustments to the US citizenship civics test are part of a larger campaign aimed at restricting access to various U.S. immigration benefits, including green cards and work permits. Since his second term began, President Trump has aggressively expanded vetting procedures, including a heightened focus on the social media activities of applicants.
Overall, the implication of these changes signals a shift in how citizenship is perceived and evaluated in the United States. The increased focus on a civics education and understanding of American political systems marks a significant step towards assessing who is deemed fit to contribute as a citizen. As the landscape of immigration continues to change, it remains essential for potential applicants to stay informed and prepared.
FAQs About the US Citizenship Civics Test
1. What is the new civics test format for U.S. citizenship?
The new civics test requires applicants to study 128 questions and answer 12 out of 20 questions correctly in a verbal interview.
2. When will the updated civics test take effect?
The changes will apply to citizenship applications filed after mid-October.
3. What are some of the topics covered in the new civics test?
Topics include the 10th Amendment, important historical figures like Dwight D. Eisenhower, and innovative contributions in American history.
4. Who is affected by these changes?
These changes primarily impact individuals seeking U.S. citizenship, particularly those who have lived in the U.S. as lawful permanent residents.
5. How can applicants better prepare for the new civics test?
Applicants should study the provided materials thoroughly and familiarise themselves with American history and government to better prepare for the questions.
