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Official Preparation Guide 2025

Australian Citizenship Test - Preparation & Requirements

Complete guide to the Australian Citizenship Test including preparation resources, test format, sample questions, booking process, and expert assistance to help you pass with confidence.

20
Questions
75%
Pass Mark
45
Minutes
100%
Free Prep
Australian Citizenship Test - Study and Preparation Guide with Australian flags
Study & Preparation Guide

Australian Citizenship Test

Complete your journey to becoming an Australian citizen with expert preparation and guidance

Key Test Highlights

Mandatory for most citizenship applicants aged 18-59

20 multiple-choice questions in English

75% pass mark (15 out of 20 questions)

All 5 Australian values questions must be answered correctly

Taken on computer at designated test centers

Immediate results after completion

Can retake if unsuccessful at no additional cost

Based on official resource book "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond"

Australian Citizenship Test Overview

The Australian Citizenship Test is a mandatory requirement for most people applying for Australian citizenship by conferral. The test assesses your knowledge of Australia, its democratic values, rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and the privileges and responsibilities of being an Australian citizen.

Quick Facts About the Test

  • 20 multiple-choice questions in English
  • 45 minutes to complete
  • ✓ Must answer at least 15 questions correctly (75%)
  • ✓ Must answer all 5 values questions correctly
  • ✓ Taken on a computer at a test center
  • ✓ Results provided immediately after completion

Who Must Take the Test?

Most applicants for Australian citizenship by conferral aged between 18 and 59 years must take and pass the citizenship test. You may be exempt if you:

  • Are under 18 or 60 years of age or over at the time of application
  • Have a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity
  • Are a stateless person born in Australia to a non-citizen parent

Test Content & Format

The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official resource book, "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond". The questions cover:

📚 Test Topics
  • • Australian values and traditions
  • • Australian history and symbols
  • • Australian government and law
  • • Rights and responsibilities
  • • Australian culture and society
⚖️ Values Questions
  • • Democratic beliefs and values
  • • Freedom and equality
  • • Respect for all individuals
  • • Rule of law
  • • Parliamentary democracy

How to Book Your Test

The Department of Home Affairs will send you an invitation to book your test after they receive your citizenship application. The invitation will include:

  • A unique booking number
  • Instructions on how to book your test
  • Information about test locations and available dates
  • What to bring on test day

⚠️ Important Notice

You cannot book the citizenship test before applying for citizenship. You must wait for your official invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.

Preparation Resources

The official preparation materials are available free from the Department of Home Affairs:

📖
Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond

The official resource book available in multiple languages

🎧
Audio Version

Listen to the resource book in English or other languages

💻
Practice Tests

Online practice tests to help you prepare

Test Day Checklist

What to Bring:

  • ✓ Your test invitation letter
  • ✓ Valid photo identification (passport, driver's license)
  • ✓ Arrive at least 15 minutes early
  • ✓ Follow test center COVID-19 protocols (if applicable)

What Happens After the Test?

✅ If You Pass

Your citizenship application will continue to be processed. You'll be notified about the next steps, including the citizenship ceremony.

📝 If You Don't Pass

You can retake the test. There's no limit to how many times you can attempt the test, and there's no additional fee. You can usually rebook within a few weeks.

Tips for Success

  • 1. Study the official resource book thoroughly - All questions come from this book
  • 2. Focus on Australian values - You must get all 5 values questions correct
  • 3. Take practice tests - Familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions
  • 4. Learn in your preferred language first - Then practice in English if needed
  • 5. Arrive early and stay calm - You have plenty of time to complete the test

Test Requirements

Age Requirement

Applicants aged 18 to 59 years at time of application must take the test

Applied for Citizenship

Must have submitted a citizenship by conferral application to receive test invitation

English Language

Test is conducted in English - basic understanding required

Exemptions Available

Those under 18, 60 and over, or with permanent incapacity may be exempt

Preparation Benefits

Demonstrates your commitment to Australian values and society
Important step toward becoming an Australian citizen
Helps you understand your rights and responsibilities
Free official preparation materials available
Practice tests help you prepare effectively
Immediate test results - no waiting period
Unlimited retake opportunities if needed
Expert assistance available for preparation

Test Process Steps

1

Apply for Citizenship

Submit your citizenship by conferral application to the Department of Home Affairs

2

Receive Test Invitation

Wait for your official test invitation letter with booking details

3

Study Preparation Materials

Read the official resource book and take practice tests

4

Book Your Test

Use your booking number to schedule test at a convenient location

5

Take the Test

Attend test center with required ID and complete the 20 questions

6

Receive Results

Get immediate results and proceed with citizenship process if passed

Got Questions? We've Got Answers

How difficult is the Australian citizenship test?

The test is designed to be achievable for anyone who studies the official resource book. With proper preparation, most people pass on their first attempt. The 75% pass mark is reasonable, and all questions come directly from the study materials.

How long should I study for the citizenship test?

Most people spend 2-4 weeks studying the resource book and taking practice tests. The time needed depends on your English proficiency and familiarity with Australian culture and government. We recommend thorough preparation rather than rushing.

What are the Australian values questions?

Australian values questions test your understanding of fundamental principles including: democratic beliefs, freedom and equality, respect for all individuals, rule of law, and parliamentary democracy. You must answer all 5 values questions correctly to pass.

Can I take the test in another language?

No, the citizenship test must be completed in English. However, you can study the resource book in your preferred language first, then practice in English. Preparation materials are available in many languages.

What happens if I fail the citizenship test?

You can retake the test as many times as needed at no additional cost. There is no limit on attempts. You can usually rebook within a few weeks of an unsuccessful attempt. Use the time to study areas you found challenging.

How long does the citizenship test take?

You have 45 minutes to complete the 20 multiple-choice questions. Most people finish in 15-20 minutes. Take your time to read each question carefully and consider your answers.

Where can I take the citizenship test?

Tests are conducted at Department of Home Affairs offices and designated test centers across Australia. Your test invitation will include available locations. Choose the most convenient center when booking.

Can I bring notes or the resource book to the test?

No, the test is closed book. You cannot bring any materials, notes, or electronic devices into the test room. All questions are based on information from the resource book, which you should study beforehand.

How soon after applying do I get the test invitation?

Processing times vary, but most applicants receive their test invitation within 2-6 months of submitting their citizenship application. You can check your application status online through ImmiAccount.

Do I need to take the test if I'm over 60?

No, applicants aged 60 years and over at the time of application are exempt from the citizenship test. You may still need to attend an interview to demonstrate basic knowledge of English and your commitment to Australia.

Need Help Preparing for the Test?

Our experienced team can provide expert guidance and support to help you pass your citizenship test with confidence. Get in touch with us today.

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