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Australian Citizenship Test: How to Prepare, Practise and Pass
FOCUS Connect • 2 November 2026
Your guide to the Australian citizenship test, including what to expect, how to study, where to find practice questions and tips to help you prepare with confidence.
Becoming an Australian citizen is an important milestone. For many migrants and their families, it represents years of building a life in Australia, creating connections, contributing to the community and finding a place to call home.
But before becoming an Australian citizen, most eligible applicants need to pass the Australian citizenship test.
If you're preparing for the test, you may be wondering:
- What questions are asked in the Australian citizenship test?
- How difficult is the test?
- What score do I need to pass?
- Where can I find a free Australian citizenship practice test?
- What happens if I don't pass the first time?
The good news is that the Australian Government provides free resources to help you prepare, including a free official practice test.
This guide explains what you need to know about the Australian citizenship test, how to practise and what to expect on test day.
What Is the Australian Citizenship Test?
The Australian citizenship test is designed to assess your knowledge of Australia, its people, democratic system, laws, rights, responsibilities and shared values.
It is also used to demonstrate a basic understanding of English.
The test forms part of the Australian citizenship application process for most people applying for citizenship by conferral.
It is conducted in English on a computer or tablet and consists of multiple-choice questions.
The questions are based on the Australian Government's official study resource, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.
Australian Citizenship Test: Key Facts
| Test requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of questions | 20 multiple-choice questions |
| Time allowed | 45 minutes |
| Overall passing score | At least 15 out of 20 (75%) |
| Australian values questions | All 5 must be answered correctly |
| Language | English |
| Official study guide | Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond |
| Official practice test | Free through the Department of Home Affairs |
Important: You must achieve both requirements to pass: at least 75% overall and 100% on the five Australian values questions.
What Questions Are Asked in the Australian Citizenship Test?
All test questions are based on the official Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond resource.
The study material covers four main areas.
1. Australia and Its People
This section explores Australia's history, geography, national symbols and people.
Topics include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Australia's states and territories, national celebrations and important aspects of Australian identity.
2. Australia's Democratic Beliefs, Rights and Liberties
This section covers fundamental principles of Australian democracy, including freedom, equality, respect and the rights and responsibilities of people living in Australia.
3. Government and the Law in Australia
You will need to understand how Australia's system of government works.
This includes Parliament, elections, the role of different levels of government and the importance of Australian laws.
4. Australian Values
Australian values are an especially important part of the test.
They include freedom, respect, fairness, equality of opportunity and the rule of law.
You must answer all five Australian values questions correctly to pass.
Understanding the meaning of these values is essential, rather than simply memorising answers.
Where Can I Find a Free Australian Citizenship Practice Test?
The Australian Government provides a free online practice test through the Department of Home Affairs.
The official practice test helps you become familiar with the format of the actual test, including multiple-choice questions and the time allowed.
It is designed to look and feel like the real citizenship test, although the questions may be different on the day.
Take the official Australian citizenship practice test.
Practising can help you identify topics that need more attention and become comfortable answering questions within the time limit.
Remember, the official practice test is a preparation tool, not the actual citizenship test.
How to Prepare for the Australian Citizenship Test
Preparing for the citizenship test doesn't have to feel overwhelming.
A simple, consistent study routine can help you understand the material and build confidence.
Step 1: Download the Official Study Guide
Start with Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.
This is the official government resource containing the information you need for the test.
Although the citizenship test is conducted in English, the booklet is available in English and a range of community languages.
Reading the material in a familiar language may help you understand important concepts before practising the terminology in English.
Step 2: Study One Section at a Time
Break the booklet into smaller sections and focus on understanding the information.
For example, you could spend one study session learning about Australia's people and history, and another learning about government and the law.
Take notes on areas that are unfamiliar and revisit them regularly.
Step 3: Pay Special Attention to Australian Values
Because all five Australian values questions must be answered correctly, give this section particular attention.
Make sure you understand the principles and how they relate to everyday life in Australia.
Step 4: Complete the Official Practice Test
Once you've studied the material, try the official online practice test.
Use your results to identify which topics you understand well and which may need further revision.
Step 5: Build Confidence with English Terminology
The citizenship test is conducted in English.
If English is not your first language, spend time learning key words related to government, laws, rights, responsibilities and Australian values.
The government's Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) also offers learning resources that may help you understand citizenship-related concepts.
Step 6: Practise Regularly
Short, consistent study sessions can be more manageable than trying to learn everything at once.
Allow yourself time to understand the information rather than only memorising possible questions.
Who Needs to Take the Australian Citizenship Test?
Most applicants aged between 18 and 59 years who are applying for Australian citizenship by conferral are required to take the test.
However, some applicants may not need to sit the standard test, depending on their age or circumstances.
For example, some people may instead be required to attend an interview.
The Department of Home Affairs will advise you of the requirements that apply to your application.
The citizenship test is only one part of the citizenship application process. Applicants must also meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
What Happens on the Day of the Citizenship Test?
If you need to sit the Australian citizenship test, the Department of Home Affairs will provide details of your appointment.
Before the appointment:
- Read your appointment letter carefully.
- Check the date, time and location.
- Bring the required original photo identification.
- Bring your appointment letter and any other requested documents.
- Follow the instructions provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
During the appointment, your identity will be confirmed before you take the test.
You will complete the test independently, although certain assistance may be available for eligible applicants.
Books, notes and electronic devices cannot be used during the test.
You will generally receive your test result on the screen after completing it.
What Happens If You Fail the Australian Citizenship Test?
Not passing the citizenship test on your first attempt does not automatically mean your citizenship application is refused.
The Department of Home Affairs may arrange another test appointment at no additional test fee.
You can use the time between appointments to revisit the official study material and practise areas where you need more confidence.
The important thing is to use the official preparation resources and make sure you understand the requirements before your next appointment.
Why Australian Citizenship Matters
For many people, becoming an Australian citizen represents much more than passing a test.
It can mark an important chapter in a person's journey of settlement, participation and belonging.
Australian citizenship brings rights and responsibilities, including opportunities to participate in Australia's democratic processes and contribute to the country's future.
It can also be a meaningful milestone for families who have built their lives in Australia.
Preparing for citizenship provides an opportunity to learn more about Australia's people, history, democratic institutions and shared values.
Supporting Multicultural Communities in South West Sydney
For more than 40 years, FOCUS Connect has supported individuals and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds across South West Sydney.
As a community-based not-for-profit organisation, our work focuses on helping people access support, build connections and participate in community life.
We understand that navigating unfamiliar systems, accessing information and building confidence in a new country can sometimes be challenging.
Our broader community services include support for multicultural communities, individuals and families, with a focus on inclusion, cultural understanding and meaningful connection.
While Australian citizenship applications and tests are administered by the Department of Home Affairs, FOCUS Connect remains committed to helping build welcoming, inclusive and connected communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Australian Citizenship Test
Take the Next Step Towards Australian Citizenship
Preparing for the Australian citizenship test is an opportunity to strengthen your understanding of Australia, its democratic system, laws, people and values.
By using the official study booklet, completing the Australian citizenship practice test and setting aside regular time to prepare, you can approach your appointment with greater confidence.
Official citizenship test resources
Australian citizenship practice test
Department of Home Affairs – Prepare for the Citizenship Test
Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond
Learn More About FOCUS Connect
FOCUS Connect supports individuals, families and multicultural communities through inclusive, community-based services across South West Sydney.
To learn more about our community services, get in touch with our friendly team.
Phone: 1300 000 618
Local: (02) 4627 1188
Website:
www.focusconnect.org.au
This article provides general information based on Australian Government citizenship test guidance. FOCUS Connect does not administer the Australian citizenship test or make decisions about citizenship applications. For official requirements and application advice, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
FOCUS Connect, a registered not-for-profit charity, provides practical assistance and support services to individuals and families. As a My Aged Care provider, we offer Support at Home and Commonwealth Home Support Programme services across South West and Northern Sydney. We are also a leading provider of community services to multicultural and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations across South West Sydney.
Need Support or Know Someone Who Does?
If you need support, call us at 1300 000 618 or contact us via our online enquiry form, and we will get back to you shortly to discuss your needs and how we can assist you. If you know someone who could benefit from our services, refer them to FOCUS Connect to help them receive the support they need and deserve.
