Applying for Australian citizenship involves completing a citizenship test, a key step for most applicants seeking citizenship by conferral. The test assesses an applicant’s understanding of Australia’s values, history, and civic responsibilities, along with their basic command of English.
It forms an essential part of the process to ensure that new citizens have the knowledge and commitment needed to participate fully in Australian society.
What the citizenship test is about
The citizenship test is mandatory for most applicants aged between 18 and 59 years at the time their application is received. It evaluates an applicant’s readiness to become an Australian citizen by testing their knowledge of the country’s democratic system, national symbols, and shared values of freedom, respect, and equality.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, passing the test demonstrates that the applicant:
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The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, including five mandatory questions on Australian values. To pass, applicants must answer all five of these correctly and achieve a minimum score of 75% overall.
Who needs to take the test
Applicants aged 18 to 59 years are generally required to sit for the test. The department schedules appointments only after confirming the applicant’s identity and eligibility.
Certain categories of applicants are exempt from the test. These include:
Exempt applicants may still be invited to attend an interview for identity verification and clarification of their application details.
How the test is conducted
Applicants will be informed of the date, time, and location of their test through an official letter. Tests are usually conducted at Department of Home Affairs offices or at selected Services Australia (Centrelink) centres across the country.
If the application is lodged from outside Australia, the test will generally be taken after the applicant returns to Australia. In limited or exceptional cases, the department may arrange testing at an Australian embassy or consulate overseas.
Applicants take the test on a computer or tablet, and the result is displayed immediately after completion. The test fee is included in the citizenship application charge, meaning there is no additional cost.
Required documents for the test
On the day of the test, applicants must bring an original photo identification document, such as an Australian driver licence, passport, or proof of age card. Certified copies or digital images are not accepted.
Before attending, applicants should ensure all supporting documents are uploaded to their ImmiAccount, especially if there have been any changes to personal details such as address or name.
Assisted test for special circumstances
The Department of Home Affairs provides additional support to applicants who require help due to language or physical limitations. Those who have completed at least 400 hours of English tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) or who have a verified impairment may be eligible for an Assisted Test, which allows up to 90 minutes instead of the standard 45 minutes.
Applicants can also use a headset to listen to questions if they have difficulty reading English. However, no one is permitted to accompany them into the test room or assist with answering questions.
Rules and conduct during the test
Strict rules apply at all citizenship test centres. Candidates must:
If a candidate fails to follow the rules, they may be asked to leave and reschedule their appointment.
What happens after the test
If the applicant passes the test, their application continues through the next stage of processing. They will receive written notification if any further information is needed or once a decision has been made.
Successful applicants are later invited to attend a citizenship ceremony, where they take the Australian Citizenship Pledge. The department typically sends the invitation about four weeks before the event, though ceremony wait times can vary between councils.
It forms an essential part of the process to ensure that new citizens have the knowledge and commitment needed to participate fully in Australian society.
What the citizenship test is about
The citizenship test is mandatory for most applicants aged between 18 and 59 years at the time their application is received. It evaluates an applicant’s readiness to become an Australian citizen by testing their knowledge of the country’s democratic system, national symbols, and shared values of freedom, respect, and equality.According to the Department of Home Affairs, passing the test demonstrates that the applicant:
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- Possesses a basic knowledge of English;
- Understands what it means to become an Australian citizen;
- Has adequate knowledge of Australia’s society, laws, and values; and
- Shows commitment to Australian values based on mutual respect and equality.
The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, including five mandatory questions on Australian values. To pass, applicants must answer all five of these correctly and achieve a minimum score of 75% overall.
Who needs to take the test
Applicants aged 18 to 59 years are generally required to sit for the test. The department schedules appointments only after confirming the applicant’s identity and eligibility.Certain categories of applicants are exempt from the test. These include:
- Applicants 17 years or younger or 60 years or older;
- Individuals unable to sit the test due to incapacity or impairment;
- Children of former Australian citizens who lost their citizenship under specific historical circumstances;
- Applicants born in Papua before September 16, 1975 to an Australian-born citizen; and
- Stateless individuals born in Australia who have never held another nationality.
Exempt applicants may still be invited to attend an interview for identity verification and clarification of their application details.
How the test is conducted
Applicants will be informed of the date, time, and location of their test through an official letter. Tests are usually conducted at Department of Home Affairs offices or at selected Services Australia (Centrelink) centres across the country.If the application is lodged from outside Australia, the test will generally be taken after the applicant returns to Australia. In limited or exceptional cases, the department may arrange testing at an Australian embassy or consulate overseas.
Applicants take the test on a computer or tablet, and the result is displayed immediately after completion. The test fee is included in the citizenship application charge, meaning there is no additional cost.
Required documents for the test
On the day of the test, applicants must bring an original photo identification document, such as an Australian driver licence, passport, or proof of age card. Certified copies or digital images are not accepted.Before attending, applicants should ensure all supporting documents are uploaded to their ImmiAccount, especially if there have been any changes to personal details such as address or name.
Assisted test for special circumstances
The Department of Home Affairs provides additional support to applicants who require help due to language or physical limitations. Those who have completed at least 400 hours of English tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) or who have a verified impairment may be eligible for an Assisted Test, which allows up to 90 minutes instead of the standard 45 minutes.Applicants can also use a headset to listen to questions if they have difficulty reading English. However, no one is permitted to accompany them into the test room or assist with answering questions.
Rules and conduct during the test
Strict rules apply at all citizenship test centres. Candidates must:- Turn off and store mobile phones;
- Avoid bringing any books, papers, or materials into the testing area;
- Complete the test within the allotted time (45 minutes, or 90 minutes for Assisted Tests); and
- Refrain from talking to others or copying answers.
If a candidate fails to follow the rules, they may be asked to leave and reschedule their appointment.
What happens after the test
If the applicant passes the test, their application continues through the next stage of processing. They will receive written notification if any further information is needed or once a decision has been made.Successful applicants are later invited to attend a citizenship ceremony, where they take the Australian Citizenship Pledge. The department typically sends the invitation about four weeks before the event, though ceremony wait times can vary between councils.
