B. How Uscis Tests Your English

• Library: Becoming a U.S. Citizen (Nolo) (2021 Ed.)

B. How USCIS Tests Your English

For some applicants, the English exam can be one of the most difficult parts of the citizenship process. Others have been speaking English for years, and might not even realize that parts of the exam are happening. During the citizenship interview, you will be tested on your ability to:

• speak English (see Section B1, below)
• read English (see Section B2, below), and
• write in English (see Section B3, below).

1. Testing Your Ability to Speak English

In order to pass the spoken part of the English exam, you must understand what the USCIS interviewing officer says and make yourself understood during the citizenship interview. There is no formal test of your spoken English apart from the requirement that you speak English during the interview.

Much of the interview will involve reviewing your Form N-400, so learning the vocabulary on this form is critical. You might find a number of words on the form difficult to comprehend. Some aren't commonly used. For example, the average American rarely discusses his willingness to "bear arms on behalf of the United States" (translated: defend the United States by joining the military).

Review the language in Form N-400—with a dictionary in hand—and then have a friend read all the questions aloud to you. The USCIS interviewer probably won't ask you every question on the form, but will ask you a good number of them. Since it's impossible to predict which ones the officer will choose, be prepared for all of them. You'll be much more comfortable at the interview if you prepare!

TIP

You don't need to know every word of the English language. During the interview, there might be some words you don't know or recognize. Admitting your lack of knowledge...