U.S. Citizenship Test – How the officer tests your ability to read in English

During your U.S. citizenship test interview, the USCIS officer will determine your ability to read English by asking you to read up to three sentences in English. If you correctly read the first sentence, you pass the reading test. If not, you have two more chances to pass.

While reading, you must show the officer that you understand the meaning of the sentence by reading most of the words, without any long pauses. You will not fail because of your accent. You may make pronunciation errors as long as the meaning of the sentence is still clear and you may leave out short words that don’t interfere with meaning.

Example of English Reading Test:
Officer (pointing at the sentence): Please read this sentence: George Washington was the first president.
You (reading): “George Washington was the first president.”

Do you need hep preparing for your U.S. citizenship test? We offer a FREE U.S. Citizenship Test online training program. Check it out!