The Ultimate Guide to Australian Citizenship Test

Congratulations! You and your family are finally at the final phase of the migration journey. If you want to know what to expect about the Australian Citizenship Test, here is a comprehensive guide that might be helpful. 

 

What is the Australian Citizenship Test? 

The Australian Citizenship Test is a crucial step in the pathway to becoming an Australian citizen for most applicants aged between 18 and 59. This test assesses an individual's English language proficiency and understanding of Australia's history, values, and civic responsibilities.

By passing the test successfully, applicants demonstrate their readiness to embrace Australian citizenship, which comes with rights and responsibilities. The test consists of multiple-choice questions reflecting essential knowledge about Australia and its democratic principles.

 
What is the Australian Citizenship Test be like? 

The citizenship test is a key part of applying for Australian citizenship by conferral. To pass, you must: 

  • Answer 20 multiple-choice questions

  • Get all 5 Australian values questions correct. 

  • Achieve at least 75% overall.

Who Needs to Sit the Test for Citizenship?

Generally, applicants aged 18 to 59 must sit the test when they submit their applications. If this applies to you, you will receive a letter with your appointment details. 

Can I be exempted from the Citizenship test? 

You do not need to take the test if you: 

  • Are 17 years old or younger

  • Are 60 years old or over

  • Are the child of a former Australian citizen who lost citizenship under specific circumstances. 

  • Were born in Papua before 16 September 1975 to an Australian citizen born in Australia. 

  • Were born in Australia and are stateless (never a citizen of another country). 

  • Cannot sit the test due to an incapacity or impairment

Those exempt from the test may still have an interview to confirm their identity and application details. 

How Can I Know My Test Appointment Time and Location?

  • You will receive a letter indicating your appointment's date, time, and location

  • Wait times for appointments can vary. 

What to Bring On the Day of the Citizenship Test?

You will need to bring the following with you on the citizenship test day: 

  • Photo ID: Bring one of the following: 

    • Australian driver’s license 

    • Passport 

    • Australian-issued proof of age card 

  • Other Documents: Bring any additional documents requested in your appointment letter. 

  • Remember: Certified copies or electronic images of your ID are not accepted. If you forget your photo ID, your appointment will be rescheduled. 

Ensure all documents are attached to your application in ImmiAccount, especially if your circumstances have changed.

 

What You Can Expect at Your Citizenship Test Appointment? 

  • On-time Arrival: It is always not a bad idea to arrive early to prepare yourself. 

  • At the Test Centre

    • Discuss your citizenship application. 

    • Confirm your identity and eligibility. 

    • Have your photo taken. 

  • Taking the Test: After confirmation, you will take the citizenship test on a computer or tablet. Results will be displayed immediately after completion. 

  • Children: Children are not allowed in the test centre, so arrange for childcare beforehand. 

  • Personal Belongings: You cannot bring any study materials into the testing area. Instructions will be provided on where to place your belongings. 

Is There Any Support Available to Sit the Citizenship Test?

  • Help Available: Inform the staff if you need help reading the screen or using equipment. 

  • Audio Option: If you cannot read English, you can listen to the questions through headsets. 

You may qualify for an Assisted Test if you: 

  • Requested help in your application and completed at least 400 hours of English language tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), or 

  • Have an impairment that requires additional time. 

Those taking the Assisted Test have 90 minutes to complete it.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help You?

Contact us if you require any professional assistance in relation to becoming an Australian citizen due to health or character issues.

You can book a Migration Planning Session with one of our immigration lawyers or Accredited Specialist(s) in Immigration Law to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310-5230 or emailing us to book a time at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. If these aren’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.