To become a citizen of the United States, permanent residents (also known as Green Card holders) must be able to pass a two part test.
After they have passed this test, they may then take the citizenship oath and will be officially considered a citizen of the United States.
Language Test
The first part of the citizenship test is to examine applicants’ abilities in the English language. Even though the United States does not have an official language, English is the de facto tongue of the land and is necessary for daily life throughout the country.
Immigration officers will evaluate your proficiency in English by simply talking to you and having you write a few sentences. This test examines one’s ability to read, write, speak and listen to English.
“Civics” Test
In the United States the study of the history, culture and government of the country is called civics and is typically a part of the public education programs throughout the states.
However, if grew up in a place other than the United States, it is likely that you will have to learn about US civics in order to pass this test. There are many services available that can help you learn about the United States government.
Below are some example questions that immigration officers may ask about civics:
- Who is the President of the United States?
- When the United States declared its independence in 1776 which country did they separate from?
- What are the three branches of the US government?
Do you know the answers? Compare below!
- Barack Obama is the President of the United States as of 2013.
- The United States declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. Previously, the 13 original states were simply colonies of Britain.
- The three branches of the US government are the executive, the legislative and the judiciary.