Becoming a Canadian citizen is a proud and exciting milestone in life, and the citizenship test is one of the final steps. A Canadian citizenship test is an opportunity to prove your knowledge about the history, values, political system, and cultural landscape of Canada. You demonstrate that you are prepared to fully engage in Canadian society and contribute to the country’s diverse, vibrant community by passing the test. The test is aimed to make new citizens aware and proud of Canada’s rights and responsibilities.
It makes the test-taker feel a sense of national pride and responsibility towards his or her nation. The comprehensive guide will lead you through everything you need to know about the test: from how it’s conducted, who’s eligible, how to prepare, what happens on the day of the test, and the steps that come afterward. Proper preparation and knowledge help answer the test with confidence, thus taking one step forward to becoming a Canadian citizen and How to apply citizenship after PR?.
How is the Canadian Citizenship Test Administered?
A Canadian citizenship test can be answered in either English or French and lasts 45 minutes. It contains 20 questions, which are in a mix of multiple choice and true or false questions. To pass the test you need to answer at least 15 questions correctly.
Although the majority of applicants take the test now online, provision for those requiring special access will be done. For example, some take the test in person or over virtual applications like Microsoft Teams.
The first attempt failing is perfectly fine; you are accorded two additional chances over a 30-day timeframe. If one fails even after three attempts, then that person will have to appear in a hearing session before the citizenship official.
Key Facts:
- From January 2022 to June 2024, the pass rate of the Canadian citizenship test was at 92%.
- On average, the test only took 12 minutes.
This indicates that if a candidate prepares appropriately, then he or she can pass the test with no hassle.
Who is Eligible for the Canadian Citizenship Test?
To be eligible for the test, you need to have satisfied all the fundamental requirements that must be fulfilled to become a Canadian citizen. Some of these are:
- Permanent Residency Status: You must be a permanent resident of Canada and not have any outstanding immigration matters, including an active removal order.
- Residency Requirement: You must have been a resident in Canada for at least three years (1,095 days) within the last five years. Temporary residents and protected persons can count each day spent in Canada as a half-day toward this requirement, up to a maximum of 365 days.
- Tax Compliance: You have filed taxes for at least three years, if applicable under the Income Tax Act.
- Language Proficiency: Applicants between 18 and 54 years must prove to have sufficient knowledge of either English or French.
The other requirement to sit for the test is that of age. Those applicants between 18 and 54 years on the date of signing the application must take the test. Other ages may be interviewed instead of taking the test.
Once you have submitted your application, IRCC will review it. If all goes well, you will be given an acknowledgment of receipt (AOR), after which you will receive an invitation to schedule your test. Most invitations are issued via email if you gave your email address on the application.
How to Prepare for the Canadian Citizenship Test
Preparation is key to passing the citizenship test with confidence. The best resource for studying is the official guide, “Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship.”
This guide is available in multiple formats, including:
- Online reading
- MP3 audio
- Downloadable PDF or eBook
- Physical copy (available upon request)
Study Tips for the Canadian Citizenship Test
- Familiarize yourself with the content: Thoroughly read the official guide and focus on key topics such as Canadian history, government structure, national symbols, and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
- Practice with Sample Tests: There are no practice tests directly available from the Government of Canada, though there are other sites such as Citizenship Counts and the Richmond Public Library which offer practice exams. The sample exams are modelled after the real test, and doing these sample exams will also help you to boost your confidence.
- Study Schedule: Devote time daily for reviewing different sections of the guide. Break your material into convenient-size chucks.
- Join a Study Group: If you are a group learner, look to find a local study group or an online one. Sharing with fellow students will strengthen your grasp on the study material.
What occurs on test day?
Pretest
Once you get the invitation from the assessment company, take 30 days to sit for the test online and you are entitled to get up to three attempts so that you are able to pass the test.
Come prepared with the following:
- Identification: Any valid proof of identification that can determine your identity.
- Compatible Technology: A device with reliable internet service and a compatible browser.
- A webcam: This is usually used to monitor you the whole time as you complete the test.
- Test Environment: You should choose a quiet, well-lit space where no one will disturb you.
During the Test:
- Face your webcam and make sure your face is fully in view.
- Remove any objects that contain personal information from the webcam’s view.
- Close all other tabs and programs or VPNs.
- Do not refer to notes or books or other people for support.
After the Test:
Your test result will appear immediately after you submit the test, but IRCC will verify and confirm before giving you official instructions on your next steps.
What Takes Place After the Test?
If you pass the test, the following steps may include:
- An Interview: In some cases, IRCC may invite you for an interview with a citizenship official. This is typically done to clarify information or verify eligibility.
- Citizenship Ceremony: Once you pass, you are one step away from the final stage-attending the citizenship ceremony.
During the ceremony, you will:
- Recite the Oath of Citizenship
- Sing the Canadian national anthem
- Get the official copy of your citizenship certificate
Upon taking the oath, you will become a citizen of Canada, with all its privileges and responsibilities.
Why Canadian Citizenship Test Matters
Becoming a Canadian citizen unlocks several benefits, including the right to vote, the ability to hold a Canadian passport, and the opportunity to run for public office. It’s a significant milestone that marks your full integration into Canadian society.
By preparing thoroughly and understanding the process, you’ll be well equipped to pass the citizenship test and take the final step in your journey to becoming a proud Canadian.
