Potential Changes to U.S. Citizenship Test Under Trump Administration

Administration Eyes Overhaul of Citizenship Test

The Trump administration is exploring revisions to the U.S. citizenship test that may alter educational standards for naturalization applicants. This includes granting immigration officials more discretion in administering the exam, according to a federal regulatory agenda. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aims to create a defined “framework and standard” for meeting citizenship education requirements, enhancing the integrity of the naturalization test.

Third-Party Administration and Test Changes

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is contemplating allowing third parties to conduct the naturalization test. This proposed change would increase flexibility in exam administration. Further specifics on the operation of such a system have not been disclosed by DHS.

The potential revisions could impact many citizenship candidates annually. USCIS naturalized 818,500 people in fiscal year 2024, with almost 8 million individuals becoming U.S. citizens over the past decade. Agency data reveals an initial naturalization test pass rate of 89.7%, climbing to 94.4% after reexaminations.

Current Requirements and Proposed Enhancements

Present law mandates applicants to demonstrate basic English proficiency and knowledge of U.S. history and government. DHS noted that existing regulations lack detailed instructions on fulfilling these educational prerequisites. The proposed amendments aim to ensure immigrants’ proper integration into U.S. society, fostering a unified national identity anchored in the Constitution and core American values.

Historical Attempts and Expert Opinions

Douglas S. Pierce, a former USCIS supervisor, stated that the concept of third-party testing isn’t unprecedented. Notably, it was tried during the Clinton administration’s Citizenship USA initiative. However, he pointed out that limited information makes it difficult to evaluate the implications of the current proposal.

“The announcement lacks clarity on what exactly the agency intends, beyond exploring new testing methods,” Pierce remarked.

Potential Changes to the Naturalization Process

Gabriella Walsh, an immigration attorney, mentioned on LinkedIn that the proposal could significantly modify the naturalization process if enacted. This reflects ongoing evolution in U.S. immigration policy.

USCIS had already introduced a new civics exam based on changes made during Trump’s first term, although the version was later withdrawn under the Biden administration. In 2025, USCIS announced the adoption of a newly updated version.

Denaturalization Efforts on the Rise

Alongside test changes, the Trump administration has intensified denaturalization endeavors. The Justice Department declared a historic denaturalization initiative, aiming to revoke citizenship from 25 individuals accused of fraudulently obtaining their status. Denaturalization cases surged during Trump’s tenure, rising from an annual average of about 11 cases to approximately 25.

TRAC reported at least 15 denaturalization lawsuits filed in May and 18 more by mid-June, with 166 cases recorded since 2008 and increasing post-2025 policy shifts.

Next Steps in the Process

DHS plans to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking in December. Detailed information regarding changes to educational standards and testing procedures remains forthcoming. The proposal will undergo a public comment period before the enactment of any final rule.

For further details, contact the Newsweek editors, Matthew Cannon and Shakeema Edwards.