Guide
How the Canadian citizenship test works
Questions, time limit, pass mark and what happens next.
In short: the Canadian citizenship knowledge test has 20 questions, allows 45 minutes and requires at least 15 correct answers to pass. Questions are multiple choice or true or false and are based on Discover Canada. This website offers independent practice, not the official test.
Written by ChowChow Labs. Facts checked against IRCC on . Rules can change, so always confirm on IRCC’s website.
How many questions are on the Canadian citizenship test?
The test has 20 questions. Each one is either multiple choice or true or false.
What is the passing score?
You need at least 15 correct answers out of 20 (75%) to pass.
How long is the citizenship test?
You have 45 minutes to answer all 20 questions.
What does the test cover?
Every question is based on the official study guide, Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship: rights and responsibilities, Canada’s peoples, history, government, elections, the justice system, symbols, the economy and the regions. It’s the only official study guide.
Who has to take the citizenship test?
If you’re between 18 and 54 years old on the day you sign your citizenship application, you have to take the test. Applicants under 18 or 55 and older don’t.
Is the citizenship test online?
Most applicants are invited to take the test online. You can take it from anywhere, in English or French, and you’ll be monitored through your webcam. After you’re invited, you have 30 days to take it. In some cases IRCC asks applicants to take the test in person or on Microsoft Teams.
What happens if I fail the citizenship test?
You have 3 chances to pass. Depending on your results, IRCC may invite you to a citizenship ceremony, an interview, another test or a hearing.
How to prepare
- Read Discover Canada from start to finish at least once.
- Study one topic at a time and check yourself with practice questions.
- Take timed mock exams to get used to 20 questions in 45 minutes. Mock Exams 1–7 are free.
- Follow a 7-day or 30-day study plan.
Official sources
- IRCC: Study for the citizenship test
- IRCC: How the citizenship test works
- Discover Canada (official study guide)
Independent study aid. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada or IRCC.