The test at a glance
- multiple-choice questions
- 20
- multiple-choice questions
- to complete the test
- 45 min
- to complete the test
- overall (15/20) to pass
- 75%
- overall (15/20) to pass
- Australian values questions correct
- 5/5
- Australian values questions correct
Guides in this section
- How does the Australian citizenship test work?A 45-minute, computer-based test of 20 multiple-choice questions in English, sat at an appointment with Home Affairs.
- What is the Australian citizenship test pass mark?At least 15 out of 20 (75%), and all 5 Australian values questions correct.
- How many questions are on the citizenship test?20 multiple-choice questions, 5 of them about Australian values, all based on Our Common Bond.
- What happens on citizenship test day?You attend your appointment, confirm your identity and sit the 45-minute test on a computer.
- What should I bring to the citizenship test?Everything your appointment letter lists, including original photo ID. Copies and phone photos are not accepted.
- How should I prepare for the citizenship test?Read the testable section of Our Common Bond, practise by topic, master the values questions and take timed mock tests.
- What happens if you fail the citizenship test?Follow the instructions Home Affairs gives you. Most fails come from the values rule or the 15/20 mark, and both can be fixed with practice.
Who has to sit the citizenship test?
According to Home Affairs, most applicants for citizenship by conferral aged 18 to 59 will have an appointment to sit the test. Other applicants may only have an interview, where the Department confirms their identity and asks about their application.
If you are not sure which applies to you, the letter Home Affairs sends about your appointment will say whether you are sitting the test or attending an interview.
What does the citizenship test check?
Home Affairs says passing the test shows you have:
- a basic knowledge of the English language
- an understanding of what it means to become an Australian citizen
- an adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship
- an understanding of, and commitment to, Australian values based on freedom, respect and equality.
The test is conducted in English only, and there is no extra cost to sit it: it is included in your application fee.
What do the questions cover?
All test questions are based on the testable section of Our Common Bond, which has four parts. Study each part, then practise it on its own.
Which official resources should I use?
Home Affairs recommends these free resources:
- Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond: the testable section is available in English and 40 community languages.
- The Our Common Bond podcast.
- The official practice test: a sample test only, as the questions on the day are different.
- AMEPOnline citizenship modules, for people learning English.
Home Affairs also says it does not endorse or recommend external courses, including paid apps. This site is independent and free; use it as extra practice alongside the official material, not instead of it.
Common questions
Who has to sit the Australian citizenship test?
Home Affairs says most applicants for citizenship by conferral aged 18 to 59 will have an appointment to sit the test. Others may only have an interview.
Does the citizenship test cost extra?
No. Home Affairs says there is no extra cost to sit the test because it is included in the citizenship application fee.
Is this website the official citizenship test?
No. This is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian Government. The official test is run by the Department of Home Affairs.
Official sources
Independent study resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian Government.