Test Format
How does the citizenship test work?
The Australian citizenship test is conducted on a computer at an approved test centre. You will answer multiple-choice questions covering Australian values, government, laws, history, national symbols, and other topics contained in the official study material.
Computer Based
The test is completed electronically at an approved test centre.
20 Questions
You will answer 20 multiple-choice questions.
45 Minutes
You have 45 minutes to complete the test.
What You Study
What topics are tested?
Questions are based on the official Australian citizenship study material. Your preparation should focus on understanding the information rather than simply memorising isolated answers.
Australia and Its People
Learn about Australia's history, national identity, symbols and important events.
Democratic Beliefs
Understand Australia's democratic system and the principles that underpin Australian society.
Government & the Law
Understand Australia's system of government, laws and the rule of law.
Australian Values
Understand the values expected of people who become Australian citizens.
Scoring
What score do you need to pass?
75%
You need to correctly answer at least 15 of the 20 questions to meet the overall passing requirement.
5 / 5
All 5 Australian values questions must be answered correctly.
Important: Reaching 75% overall is not enough by itself. You must also answer every Australian values question correctly.
Australian Values
Why are Australian values important?
Australian values form a particularly important part of the citizenship test. The values questions assess your understanding of principles that are fundamental to Australia's democratic society.
Freedom and dignity of the individual
Respect for the freedom and dignity of every person.
Equality
Respect for equality between men and women and equality before the law.
The rule of law
Everyone is subject to Australia's laws and no person is above the law.
Parliamentary democracy
Australia's democratic system is based on elected representatives and participation.
Peaceful participation
Citizens are expected to participate peacefully and respect the rights of others.
Before Your Appointment
What should you know before test day?
Study the official resource
Use the official Our Common Bond resource as the foundation of your preparation.
Practise multiple-choice questions
Use practice questions to become comfortable with the format and identify topics that need more revision.
Practise Australian values
Pay particular attention to Australian values because every values question must be answered correctly.
Practise under time pressure
Complete timed practice exams so that the 45-minute format feels familiar before your appointment.
Test Day
What happens during the test?
Check In
Arrive at your test centre and complete the required identification and appointment checks.
Take the Test
Answer the 20 multiple-choice questions on the computer within the available time.
Receive Your Result
Your result is displayed after you complete the computer-based test.
After the Test
What happens after you pass?
Passing the citizenship test is an important step in your citizenship application, but it is not the same as becoming an Australian citizen immediately. The Department of Home Affairs continues processing your application before a final decision and, where applicable, your citizenship ceremony.
The test is only one part of the citizenship process
Your citizenship application may still require further assessment before it is approved.
Now put your knowledge to the test
Practise with our free Australian citizenship test simulator and see how prepared you really are.
Start Free Practice ExamNext Reading
Australian Citizenship Test Guide
Explore eligibility, documents, fees, application steps and what happens after the test.
Read the guideHave Questions?
Australian Citizenship Test FAQs
Browse 25 commonly asked questions about the test, scoring, Australian values and preparation.
Browse FAQsFor the latest official information about the citizenship test, always refer to the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and the official Our Common Bond resource.