Updates
Citizenship test news and updates
Short summaries of changes that affect the civics test and the naturalization process. We write each summary in our own words and link the original report. We include only items that matter to test-takers and applicants.
Latest
Report: naturalization approvals fell sharply in the third quarter of fiscal 2026
A law-firm blog reports that USCIS approved 54,974 naturalization applications in the third quarter of fiscal year 2026, compared with 236,924 a year earlier, and that average waits rose.
For your test prep: Interview dates vary. Study at a steady pace, and check your answers again just before your interview.
Advocates explain waivers and character letters under the new neighborhood review
The Immigrant Legal Resource Center's October 2026 advisory says USCIS may waive a neighborhood investigation when an applicant sends enough testimonial or character reference letters. It also says missing letters alone cannot justify a finding of bad moral character.
For your test prep: If you receive a notice about this, follow it and ask an immigration attorney or an accredited representative.
USCIS ends the general waiver of neighborhood investigations for citizenship applicants
A USCIS policy alert dated August 25, 2026 ends the general waiver of neighborhood investigations. Officers may speak with people who know an applicant to check details from Form N-400, including good moral character.
For your test prep: This does not change the civics questions. It affects how your eligibility is reviewed, so keep your Form N-400 answers accurate.
What we are watching
Watch: DHS plans a proposal on educational standards and third-party testing
DHS's regulatory agenda lists a proposal to amend the educational requirements for naturalization and let third parties administer parts of the test. Reports say a proposed rule is expected in December 2026. As of November 13, 2026 we found no published rule.
For your test prep: Nothing has changed yet. The 128-question test stays in effect for applications filed on or after October 20, 2025.
Earlier
DHS proposes raising the naturalization application fee by 75 percent
ABC7 reports a June 2026 DHS proposal to raise the online application fee from $710 to $1,280 and end most fee waivers, with current and former military members exempt. It was a proposal, so check the current fee before you file.
Immigrants worry about a civics test that can end the moment the result is clear
Documented NY reported on anxiety over the updated test. Under the 2025 rules, the officer can end the civics test once an applicant reaches 12 correct answers or 9 incorrect ones.
For your test prep: Practice with mock interviews that stop at 12 right or 9 wrong, so a quick ending feels familiar.
NPR covers the revised civics test for applications filed from October 20, 2025
NPR reported on the revised civics test. It applies to people who file Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025, and the officer asks up to 20 questions from a bank of 128. Applicants need 12 correct answers.
For your test prep: Read our guide to the 2025 test for how the numbers fit together.
Items marked "watch" are announced or proposed, not in force. Rules can change quickly, so check the official USCIS pages for the rules that apply to you.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules and forms can change. For your own case, follow your appointment notice, and ask an immigration attorney or an accredited representative if you have questions about your situation.