The US citizenship and immigration services (USCIS) has revised its civics test, a mandatory requirement for those who want to become American citizens.
According to the USCIS, applicants who apply for citizenship on or after December 1, 2020, must take the updated oral version of the test.
The revised test includes more questions that test the applicant’s understanding of US history and civics. Several immigration experts are of the view that the test is tougher and has political hues.
India-born individuals are typically the second largest group to be granted US citizenship.
During the 12-month period ended September 30, 2019, around 61,843 Indians were granted US citizenship, which was 7.5% of the total number of new citizens during the period.
The revised test will not change the passing score which remains at 60%. Candidates must answer 12 questions correctly, out of 20 in order to pass.
However, the current guidelines continue for applicants who are 65 years old or older and have at least 20 years of lawful permanent resident status.
These applicants will be asked 10 questions and must answer a minimum of six questions correctly in order to pass, explains USCIS.
