Redesigned (New) Naturalization Test

VIA USCIS.GOV

In the interest of creating a more
standardized, fair, and meaningful naturalization process, U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently completed a
multi-year redesign of the naturalization test. The revised test, with
an emphasis on the fundamental concepts of American democracy and the
rights and responsibilities of citizenship, will help encourage
citizenship applicants to learn and identify with the basic values we
all share as Americans.

Redesign Process
The
major aim of the redesign process is to ensure that naturalization
applicants have uniform, consistent testing experiences nationwide, and
that the civics test can effectively assess whether applicants have a
meaningful understanding of U.S. government and history. Following a
basic U.S. history and civics curriculum, the redesigned test will
serve as an important instrument to encourage civic learning and
patriotism among prospective citizens.

To accomplish these
goals, USCIS initially piloted a new test–with an overhauled English
reading and writing section, as well as new history and government
questions–in ten sites across the country. The feedback from this pilot
was then used to finalize testing procedures, English reading and
writing prompts, and a list of 100 new history and government
questions. To ensure the pilot accounted for a representative sample of
candidates with a variety of education levels, the test was also
piloted at adult education sites nationwide. 

The resulting
redesigned test was publicly introduced on September 27, 2007.
Naturalization applicants will begin taking the revised test on October 1, 2008.

Which Test Do I Take?

USCIS
will begin administering the redesigned (new) naturalization test on
October 1, 2008. Use the chart below to determine if you will take
the old or redesigned (new) test.

*The Application for Naturalization, Form N-400,
is properly filed with USCIS on the date it is received by the
appropriate USCIS Office with signature, correct fee, and the form is
completed according to instructions.

This page can be found at http://www.uscis.gov/newtest