New York's Path to Citizenship Just Got a Whole Lot Tougher: What's Changing and Why
As the city welcomes nearly 120,000 new U.S. citizens each year, those hoping to join their ranks will face a tougher test next year – literally. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has overhauled its citizenship test curriculum, introducing more questions that delve into American history, government, and civics.
Compared to the current 100-question test, the new exam boasts an additional 28 questions, many of which require applicants to demonstrate a deeper understanding of U.S. institutions and values. For instance, students will need to answer 12 out of 20 oral questions correctly – up from six in the previous test – on topics like federalism, the separation of powers, and the importance of civil liberties.
Critics say the revamped test is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restrict citizenship, particularly for immigrants who don't speak fluent English. Nicole Melaku, executive director of National Partnership for New Americans, claims the new test "is the latest deliberate and systemic barrier designed to exclude, not educate." She notes that an increase in citizenship denials – up 10% since the Biden administration took office – suggests this trend is unlikely to change.
However, educators like Caton McFadden at Brooklyn Public Library argue their students will rise to the challenge. "They are always very diligent," she said of her pupils. To prepare for the new test, instructors are revising courses and teaching students to think more critically about U.S. governance. Marybeth Ihle, a spokesperson for New York Historical, echoed this sentiment, saying that students who can "express themselves" in English will find the revised questions more manageable.
The changes take effect October 20 this year, affecting those who applied for citizenship after that date. As immigrants prepare to face this new hurdle, many are grappling with concerns about access and equity – particularly for those whose English proficiency may be limited.
As the city welcomes nearly 120,000 new U.S. citizens each year, those hoping to join their ranks will face a tougher test next year – literally. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has overhauled its citizenship test curriculum, introducing more questions that delve into American history, government, and civics.
Compared to the current 100-question test, the new exam boasts an additional 28 questions, many of which require applicants to demonstrate a deeper understanding of U.S. institutions and values. For instance, students will need to answer 12 out of 20 oral questions correctly – up from six in the previous test – on topics like federalism, the separation of powers, and the importance of civil liberties.
Critics say the revamped test is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to restrict citizenship, particularly for immigrants who don't speak fluent English. Nicole Melaku, executive director of National Partnership for New Americans, claims the new test "is the latest deliberate and systemic barrier designed to exclude, not educate." She notes that an increase in citizenship denials – up 10% since the Biden administration took office – suggests this trend is unlikely to change.
However, educators like Caton McFadden at Brooklyn Public Library argue their students will rise to the challenge. "They are always very diligent," she said of her pupils. To prepare for the new test, instructors are revising courses and teaching students to think more critically about U.S. governance. Marybeth Ihle, a spokesperson for New York Historical, echoed this sentiment, saying that students who can "express themselves" in English will find the revised questions more manageable.
The changes take effect October 20 this year, affecting those who applied for citizenship after that date. As immigrants prepare to face this new hurdle, many are grappling with concerns about access and equity – particularly for those whose English proficiency may be limited.
I think its gonna be super challenging but also good in a way 'cause we need people to actually know stuff about their new country 
i mean i get it we need 2 make sure ppl r knowin what they're doin but can't dey jus give dem a lil more time 2 study or sumthin? 
i heard its bcos of the trump admin but i dont think thats fair @ uscis u shd be helpin ppl not makin it harder 4 them 2 get citizenship 
anywayz lets hope dis new test dont leave out alot of ppl who r good ppl just wanna fit in 
. I mean, it's all about education and understanding American history and gov't, but at what cost? It's like they're making it harder for ppl to get their citizenship just 'cause they don't speak the language fluently 
. What if those immigrants have been living in the US for years, paying taxes and contributing to society, but still struggle with the new test? 
It's like, can't we find a way to make it more accessible without restricting their path to citizenship? 
I think it's great that they're making us learn more about our amazing country 
The new test is like a level up for everyone 
! My friends who are taking the test next year are super nervous but also excited 
. We'll just have to study harder and practice our critical thinking skills 
. Like, if they really want to make sure everyone understands American history and civics, maybe they should offer prep classes or something? 
. And, honestly, I don't think it's fair that some educators are saying students will "rise to the challenge" while others are worried about limited English proficiency