What to Expect When Taking the Australian Citizenship Test

Are you interested in becoming an Australian citizen? Here is a guide on taking the Australia Citizenship test. The test encompasses 20 questions that have to be answered in 45 minutes. It is computer-based, and it’s in English. The questions have three choices each. For you to pass the test, you must get at least 75% of the answers correct. Meaning you must score 15 out of the 20 questions.

What to Expect

On arrival at the centre, you will have to go through a citizenship officer that will verify your documents. He/she will then determine if you are legible to take the test as per your documents. If you are cleared, you will be given a password that you will use to login to one of the computers at the test centre.

Also, you need to keep time. Failure to do so will lead to rescheduling of when you are going to take the test. It is imperative for you to know the location before the day so that you don’t get lost and end up arriving late.

Rules for Taking the Australian Citizenship Test

All applicants must adhere to these rules or risk having their test rescheduled at a later date. The first rule is that the test takes 45 minutes only. You are also barred from bringing any reference materials to the test. When taking the test, your belongings should be placed beneath the desk. Your mobile phone and other electronic devices should be switched off. And, finally, you cannot discuss the questions with other applicants. The only person you can enquire from is the test administrator.

Taking the Test

During the test, you will have to answer the 20 questions correctly in 45 minutes. While you do this, you will also have to adhere to the rules above. For those who aren’t computer literate or have poor English literacy skills, you can get assistance from one of the test officers.

If you also have a disability that is restricting you from taking the test, an officer can offer assistance where applicable. Note that these officers can only read the questions for you but won’t give you answers.

Those that might have difficulty with taking the standard test, can opt for a course-based test.

What Happens After the Test?

Once you are done taking the test, the results will be displayed on your screen. These results will be recorded as part of your application, and you will be given your documents back. Provided you meet all desired requirements, your application will be approved, and you will get a letter of notification. You should also expect another letter indicating the location and date for the citizenship ceremony. Attending this ceremony is a mandatory requirement of becoming an Australian citizen because it is where you will take the Australian citizenship pledge. The ceremony occurs six months after approval.

What If You Fail The Test?

Since the results of the test are displayed instantly. You can know that you have failed the test on the spot and take another one on the same day. Or book another test date so that you can get time to study. You should also know that there are no charges associated with retaking the test. And it also does not affect your permanent visa or stops you from residing in Australia.