New York, NY—Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it is reverting to the 2008 version of the naturalization civics test. The move came after USCIS determined that the 2020 civics test development process, content, testing procedures, and implementation schedule inadvertently created potential barriers to the naturalization process.
Rovika Rajkishun, Interim Co-Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition:
“We applaud the Biden/Harris administration’s first steps in removing harmful and unnecessary roadblocks to citizenship. Reverting the naturalization civics test to the 2008 version is a vital step in creating a fairer immigration system. We encourage the millions of eligible immigrants to apply for citizenship, for themselves, their families, and the country. Of course, the work does not end with this test. The New York Immigration Coalition stands ready to build a truly just immigration system for all by first ensuring that everyone in this country has a pathway to citizenship.”
Background
Applicants who filed their naturalization applications on or after Dec. 1, 2020, but before March 1, 2021, with an initial examination (interview) before April 19, 2021, will have the choice to either take the 2008 civics test or the 2020 civics test. USCIS will notify applicants who are affected by the change. If the initial interview is scheduled on or after April 19, 2021, applicants will take the 2008 civic test. Additional information and study materials are available on USCIS’ Citizenship Resource Center page.