How to Pass the Canadian Citizenship Test on Your First Try

Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant milestone, and the citizenship test is a vital step in this process. This guide outlines everything you need to know to confidently prepare for and successfully complete the test.

Overview of the Canadian Citizenship Test

The Canadian citizenship test assesses your understanding of Canada's history, geography, government, laws, economy, and symbols. This guide will provide clear insights into the following topics:

1. How the test is conducted
2. Eligibility criteria for taking the test
3. Steps to prepare effectively
4. What to expect on test day
5. Next steps after completing the test

1. Test Format and Structure

• Languages: The test is available in English or French.
• Duration: 45 minutes.
• Format: 20 questions, presented as multiple-choice or true/false.
• Passing Requirement: Answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly.
• Attempts: Up to three attempts are allowed within 30 days. Failure after three attempts requires attending a hearing with a citizenship official.

The majority of applicants take the test online. However, accommodations are available for those with accessibility concerns or technical issues.

2. Eligibility for the Citizenship Test

To take the test, you must meet all Canadian citizenship requirements, including:

• Permanent Residency: Must hold permanent resident status.
• Residency: Have lived in Canada for three of the last five years.*
• Tax Filing: Must have filed taxes.
• Language Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in English or French.

*Time spent in Canada as a temporary resident or protected person counts as half-days, up to 365 days.

Age Requirements

• Applicants aged 18 to 54 must take the test.
• Those under 18 or over 54 are exempt but may need to attend an interview in some cases.

After submitting your application, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will send you an acknowledgment of receipt (AOR) and, shortly after, an invitation to schedule your test.

3. Preparation Tips

The official study guide, “Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship,” is the best resource for preparation. It is available in various formats:

• Online reading
• MP3 audio
• PDF or ebook download
• Paper copy request

Additional Study Strategies

• Use practice tests available online to simulate the test environment. While not official, these tests closely mimic the real test format and can boost confidence.

4. Test Day Essentials

Before the Test

• Scheduling: Once invited, choose a convenient time within the 30-day window.
• Requirements: Ensure you have:
  • Valid identification
  • A compatible device and browser
  • Reliable internet and a working webcam
  • A quiet, well-lit test area

During the Test

• Keep your webcam on, with your face fully visible.
• Remove personal information from the camera’s view.
• Close other programs, tabs, or VPNs.
• Avoid consulting external resources or individuals during the test.

5. After the Test

• Immediate Results: Your test result will appear automatically upon submission.
• Official Review: Results are reviewed and confirmed by IRCC.

If You Pass

You will receive instructions for the next steps, which may include:

• An interview with a citizenship official (if required).
• Scheduling your citizenship ceremony.

The Citizenship Ceremony

At the ceremony, you will:

• Take the Oath of Citizenship.
• Sing the Canadian national anthem.

Upon taking the oath, you officially become a Canadian citizen.

Preparing thoroughly and understanding each step of the process ensures a smooth journey toward achieving your dream of Canadian citizenship.