The Australian citizenship test was first implemented in 2007. It comprises 20 multiple choice questions on topics like Australia and its people, democratic beliefs, rights and liberties, and government and the law. The test questions are based on the 78-page booklet Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. The duration of the test is for 45 minutes and the passing score is 75% which was increased from 60% in 2009.
Who shall take the exam?
Applicants for Australian citizenship by conferral are required to take the test. Passing the citizenship test Australia is needed to prove the following:
- Basic knowledge of the English language
- You understand what it means to be an Australian citizen
- You have adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of being a citizen
- Your commitment to Australian values based on freedom, respect, and equality.
The Australian citizenship test has been updated since it was first administered. One of the changes is for all applicants to correctly answer all 5 questions on Australian values. Aside from the test, applicants also need to have an interview first. If you are 18 to 59 years old on the day of your application, you will need to undergo the test once all eligibility requirements have been met and your identity has been verified through the interview.
However, if you are an applicant for Australian citizenship by conferral, you don’t need to sit on the test if you are:
- Less than 18 years old at the time of application
- More than 60 years during application
- born to former Australian citizens who automatically lost their citizenship because they became a citizen of another country as an adult.
- Born in Papua before September 16, 1975, to an Australian citizen born in Australia
- Suffer from severe impairment to or permanent loss of hearing, speech, or sight
- Have a permanent or enduring mental or physical incapacity which limits your ability to:
o Understand the nature of your application
o Show your basic knowledge of English
o Show you have adequate knowledge of Australia and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.
What To Do?
Before the Test
· Check original documents
· Confirm your identity
· Confirm eligibility to take the test
If you have kids 16 and 17 years old who were invited to an interview, their identity will be confirmed and the following will be checked:
- Original documents
- Basic knowledge of English
- Understanding of what it is to become an Australian citizen
- understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship
If you or have a loved one more than 60 years old who were invited for an interview, their identity will also be checked and the following will be checked:
- Original documents
- Understanding of what it is to become an Australian citizen
- understanding of the responsibilities and privileges of Australian citizenship
During the test day
On testing day, make sure to arrive on time. A staff member will conduct an interview, verify your identity, check original documents, or take your photo. They will also confirm if you can take the test. On the day of the test, children will not be allowed in the venue so arrange for childcare while taking the test.
The test will be via a computer so you can see the results right away upon completion. Inform the staff if you are not able to read the computer screen or use a computer mouse. Test resource materials are not allowed in the testing venue. Keep your personal belongings under the desk while taking the test,
Test results will be sent to Australia for marking so expect a delay in the receipt of results.
You may take an assisted test on the following grounds:
- You asked for it on your application
- You have completed a minimum of 400 hours of English language tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program or AMEP.
- You do not possess the required reading skills for taking the test without help based on the assessment of the AMEP provider.
. The time limit for the assisted tests is 90 minutes.
During the test, the following rules will be observed. If you don’t follow them, you will be asked to leave the testing room:
- Switch off your mobile phone
- Do not use books, paper, or other materials to help you with the test
- Do not copy answers from anyone
- Finish the test within the allotted time of 45 minutes
- Raise your hand if you need assistance with the computer
After The Test
Once you pass the test, your application for citizenship will be processed. You will be informed through writing about the decision on your application. Once your application is approved, you will be required to attend a citizenship ceremony. The ceremony will be held within 6 months from the time of approval of the application. The waiting time will vary.
If you fail the test, you will be allowed to retake the test within the day, if possible, or rebook for another time if you need more preparation. You will not be charged for a retake. Failure in the citizenship test will not have an effect on your permanent visa or stop you from becoming a resident of Australia.
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