English Language Requirement
The English Test
A plain-English breakdown of all three components, the official vocabulary lists, and who qualifies for an exemption.
3 Components · Pass 1 of 3 · Exemptions Available
The Three Components
What's Tested
The English test is not a single exam - it is three distinct assessments conducted during your naturalization interview.
Speaking
Assessed throughout
There is no separate speaking test. The USCIS officer evaluates your ability to communicate in English during the entire interview.
Reading
1 of 3 sentences
The officer shows you up to 3 sentences. You must read at least 1 correctly aloud. All words come from the official USCIS reading vocabulary list.
Writing
1 of 3 sentences
The officer dictates up to 3 sentences. You must write at least 1 correctly. Minor spelling errors are acceptable if the meaning is clear.
Speaking
Speaking Is Tested Throughout the Interview
There is no separate speaking test. The USCIS officer assesses your English speaking ability by observing how you communicate during the entire interview - answering questions about your N-400, your background, and your eligibility.
Answer in complete sentences when possible.
Instead of just "yes," say "Yes, I have lived at the same address for 3 years." This demonstrates comprehension.
It is acceptable to say "Can you repeat the question?"
If you do not understand a question, politely ask the officer to repeat it or speak more slowly. Do not guess at what is being asked.
You may bring an interpreter only in limited circumstances.
If you qualify for the 50/20 or 55/15 English exemption, you may use an interpreter. You must notify USCIS in advance.
Stay calm. Normal nervousness is expected.
The officer evaluates your overall ability to communicate, not perfect grammar or accent.
Source: USCIS Policy Manual, Vol. 12, Part E, Chapter 2, Section C
Reading
Reading Vocabulary List
Every reading sentence at the interview is built exclusively from these words. No word outside this list will appear. You must read at least 1 of 3 sentences correctly.
People
Civics
Places
Holidays
Question Words
Source: USCIS Reading Vocabulary List
Writing
Writing Vocabulary List
The officer will dictate sentences using only these words. Spelling must be reasonably correct, but minor errors are acceptable if the meaning is clear. You must write at least 1 of 3 sentences correctly.
People
Civics
Places
Holidays
Verbs
Other
Source: USCIS Writing Vocabulary List
Exemptions
Who Doesn't Have to Take the English Test
Certain applicants are exempt from the English test based on age, length of residence, or disability. The civics test exemption follows the same rules.
Exemption Rules
50/20 Rule
You are 50 years of age or older AND have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years.
INA § 312(b)(1); 8 CFR § 312.1(b)(1)
55/15 Rule
You are 55 years of age or older AND have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 15 years.
INA § 312(b)(2); 8 CFR § 312.1(b)(2)
65/20 Rule (Civics Only)
You are 65 years of age or older AND have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years. You still must take the English test, but study only the 20 asterisked civics questions.
Also exempt from civics test8 CFR § 312.2(c)(2)
Form N-648 (Disability/Impairment)
You have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents you from satisfying the English and/or civics requirement. A licensed physician or osteopath must certify this on Form N-648.
Also exempt from civics testINA § 312(b)(3); 8 CFR § 312.3
Practice makes permanent.
Practice Reading & Writing
Use the interactive tools to drill the vocabulary lists before your interview.
Stay Sharp
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