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CitizenshipExam
Citizenship test guide

What happens on citizenship test day?

Quick answer

You attend an appointment with the Department of Home Affairs, confirm your identity with original photo ID, and sit a 45-minute, computer-based test of 20 multiple-choice questions in English. Your appointment letter tells you where to go and what to bring, so read it carefully before the day.

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What should I do before test day?

  • Read your appointment letter. It has the time, the location and the documents to bring.
  • Get your original photo ID ready. Home Affairs does not accept certified copies or electronic images of photo ID at citizenship appointments. See what to bring.
  • Plan your trip so you arrive with time to spare.
  • Revise lightly. Go over the Australian values once more and review any questions you have been getting wrong on the review page.

What happens when I arrive?

Home Affairs asks people attending citizenship appointments to bring photo ID so it can confirm their identity. If you do not bring photo ID, the Department says your appointment will be changed to a later date, so this is the one thing not to forget.

Staff at the appointment will tell you how the session runs. Follow their instructions and any in your appointment letter.

What is the test itself like?

  • 20 multiple-choice questions on a computer
  • 45 minutes to finish
  • Conducted in English only
  • Pass with at least 15/20 and all 5 values questions correct

Using your time well

  • You have a little over two minutes per question, so there is no need to rush.
  • Read the whole question and every option before choosing.
  • Take extra care with questions about Australian values. One wrong values answer means you do not pass, even with a high overall score.

Can I bring a support person or get an interpreter?

For citizenship interviews, Home Affairs says a family member or other person can attend with you and that it can arrange an interpreter at the appointment. The test itself is conducted in English only.

If you have specific needs for a test appointment, contact Home Affairs before the day rather than on arrival. The details in your appointment letter take priority over general guidance, including ours.

What happens after the test?

Follow the information Home Affairs gives you about your result. Your application continues to be processed, and the Department notifies applicants in writing when a decision is made. If you are approved and need to attend a ceremony, Home Affairs says the invitation is generally sent about four weeks beforehand.

Didn’t pass? Read what to do if you fail.

Common questions

How long does the citizenship test take?

You have 45 minutes to complete the 20 questions. Allow extra time for arriving and confirming your identity.

Can someone come with me to my appointment?

For citizenship interviews, Home Affairs says a family member or other person can attend with you and an interpreter can be arranged. For test appointments, check your appointment letter or contact Home Affairs.

Official sources

Independent study resource. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Australian Government.