The Canadian Citizenship Test: Format, Pass Mark, and How to Prepare

The citizenship test has 20 questions in multiple-choice or true-or-false format. It is offered in English or French and lasts 45 minutes. Once the timer starts you cannot pause it, and the test is submitted automatically when time runs out.

Most applicants are invited to take the test online and can complete it from anywhere with an internet connection. In some cases, for example if an accommodation is needed, you may be asked to take it in person or by video. If you need an accommodation because of a disability or other circumstance, you can request one, and IRCC will contact you to arrange it, for example a paper, oral or Braille test.

The test itself does not assess your language ability. The language requirement (for applicants aged 18 to 54, generally Canadian Language Benchmark / Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens level 4 or higher in speaking and listening) is handled separately. It goes through accepted proof of language and, where applicable, an interview where a citizenship officer notes how well you communicate in English or French.

Questions are based on the rights and responsibilities of being a Canadian citizen, and on Canada’s history, geography, economy, government, laws and symbols. Every question comes from the official study guide, so there are no surprises outside that material.

Topics include:

• How Canadians govern themselves: Parliament, the roles of the monarch, governor general, prime minister and the Supreme Court.
• How and why to vote.
• The justice system and the rule of law.
• National and provincial symbols such as the flag and the maple leaf.
• The rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
• Key facts about the regions, peoples and history of Canada, including Indigenous peoples and the history of Confederation.

Because the questions are drawn directly from the guide, you do not need outside reading or current-events knowledge.