One of the steps in becoming a Canadian citizen is taking the Canadian Citizenship Test. Only adults between the ages of 18 and 54 have to complete this step in the application process. While you prepare to move through the process of applying for Canadian citizenship, you will learn about the history of Canada and how it impacts today’s economy and politics. Having this knowledge is important because as an active Canadian citizen, you will be able to participate in these sectors and play a huge role in the future of Canada!

Key Points

You must first complete your application before receiving an invitation to write the Canadian Citizenship test.

Anyone under the age of 18 does not need to take the citizenship test.

Anyone 55 years or older does not need to take the citizenship test.

The citizenship test is only available in English or French.

With 20 questions in total, you must correctly answer 15 questions to pass and move onto the next step in the application process.

In this post, you will learn about when you should be expecting to take the Canadian Citizenship Test, as well as, the format of the test itself.

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What is the Canadian Citizenship Test?

The Canadian Citizenship test is a mixture of multiple choice and true or false questions in English or French. Within 30 minutes, you have the time to answer 20 questions. However, you must get at least 15 out of 20 questions correct to pass the test. The questions and overall subject material are all about the rights and responsibilities of Canadian citizens, as well as, information that is relevant to Canada’s history, geography, laws, etc. You can find more information on the test material here.

When should you expect to take the Canadian Citizenship Test?

After completing the application for citizenship, you will be invited to take the citizenship test within weeks. There is an online citizenship test and an in-person option if needed. You can choose which option you would prefer while in the application process.

For the online test, you will also receive an email notification that you are eligible to do so. Be sure to check your junk mail consistently for any messages from email addresses ending in “@cic.gc.ca”. You will not receive a specific date or time to take the test. However, this test must be taken the test within 21 days of the invitation.

If you have applied to take the test in-person, you will receive a notice with the date, time, and location of the test approximately 1-2 weeks beforehand. It is advised that you set aside approximately 2 hours in case there is any waiting times or processing delays. The notice will be sent via email if you used an email for application process. Be sure to check your junk mail consistently for any messages from email addresses ending in “@cic.gc.ca.” If you did not use an email for your initial application, you will be sent the notice to your address.

There is more information here about the new online testing format. The is the best place to check for up to date information from the Government of Canada.

Why do I need to take this test?

You must take this test and pass in order to receive Canadian citizenship. This test ensures that everyone has the same knowledge about what is required of them as a citizen in Canada. People can use this knowledge to build a solid foundation of Canada and its values, which can help them in their everyday lives.

To learn more about what material is included in the citizenship test, click here. 

For more information on what happens after you pass your test and attend your citizenship ceremony, click here.

About the writer

Jenna completed her Masters in Museum Studies at the University College Cork in Ireland. Having worked in a variety of museums and galleries in Canada and Ireland, she is passionate about building community connections through art and culture.