Australian Citizenship Test Format: 2025 Structure, Questions & Rules

The Australian Citizenship Test is run by the Department of Home Affairs. It has 20 multiple-choice questions that check if you understand Australia’s key values and how the country works. To pass, you need to score 75% or higher (at least 15 correct answers). The test is done on a computer and uses information from the official study guide, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. This guide teaches Australia’s history, democracy, and laws. The test focuses on five main values: Freedom, Respect, Equality, Democracy, and Rule of Law. These values help make sure new citizens know their responsibilities.

Taking the test is simple: you book online through the Department of Home Affairs website and go to a test center near you. There are strict rules: you have 45 minutes, can’t bring notes or phones, and must show photo ID.Unlike other steps (like living in Australia or learning English), this test checks your understanding of Australian life. It’s not about memorizing facts—it’s about knowing how Australia’s values work in real life. This helps create citizens who truly care about being part of the country.

Content of the Australian Citizenship Test

The Australian Citizenship Test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions, focusing on the following topics:​

• Australian Values: 5 questions assessing understanding of principles such as freedom, respect, equality, democracy, and the rule of law.​
• Australia and Its People: Questions covering the nation’s history, cultural heritage, and national symbols.​
• Australia’s Democratic Beliefs, Rights, and Liberties: Items addressing comprehension of democratic principles and citizens’ rights and freedoms.​
• Government and the Law in Australia: Questions examining knowledge of the country’s governmental structure and legal system.​
  

To pass, applicants must correctly answer at least 15 out of 20 questions (achieving a 75% score), including all five questions on Australian values.

Test Format & Question Types

The Australian Citizenship Test has 20 multiple-choice questions about Australia’s values, history, government, and citizen rights. To pass, you need 15 correct answers (75%) and must get all 5 questions on Australian values right.

Structure of the Test

The test checks your knowledge of topics like Freedom, Respect, Equality, Democracy, and Rule of Law. You’ll study from the official book, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, made by the Department of Home Affairs. You have 45 minutes to finish.

Passing Rules:

• Answer 15/20 questions correctly (75%).
• Get all 5 Australian values questions right.
• First-attempt success rate: ~80%.

Computer-Based vs. Paper-Based Test

Most people take the test on a computer at approved centers. It’s quick, and you get results fast. If you need help (like for a disability or language issue), you can ask for a paper-based test.

Where to Take It:

• At Department of Home Affairs offices across Australia.

Help for Test-Takers:

• Paper tests are available if you need special support.

Test Environment & Logistics

The Australian Citizenship Test is held at authorized centers nationwide, including major cities and regional hubs. You’ll need to book your slot online and follow strict test-day rules.

Exam Center Locations

Tests are held at centers like Sydney CBD Test Centre, Melbourne Migration Office, and regional hubs (e.g., Darwin, Cairns). You can book your location through the ImmiAccount portal, with options for rural areas to reduce travel. Most applicants choose nearby cities, but regional centers help those in remote areas.

Test Day Rules & Regulations

Bring valid photo ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license) and arrive early. Biometric verification (fingerprints/photos) is mandatory. Bags, phones, and notes are banned—store them in lockers. Late arrivals may forfeit their test slot.

Key Rules:

• Prohibited items: Smartwatches, earphones, pens.
• ID required: No ID = no test.

Test Administration

The Australian Citizenship Test is managed by the Department of Home Affairs and proctored under strict conditions. You’ll have 45 minutes to finish, with security protocols ensuring fairness.

Test Duration & Time Limits

The test runs on a Pearson VUE timer, giving you 45 minutes to answer all 20 questions. Most applicants finish early, but pacing helps avoid mistakes. The Department of Home Affairs recommends practicing timed quizzes to build speed.

Quick Tips:

• Track time using the on-screen clock.
• Skip tricky questions and return later.

Test Monitoring & Security

Test centers use surveillance cameras and invigilators to watch for cheating. You’ll sit in a silent room—no talking, phones, or smartwatches allowed. Even small distractions (like rustling paper) can lead to warnings.

Rules Simplified:

• No breaks: Stay seated until finished.
• No notes: Empty pockets before entering.

Support & Accommodations

Australia’s Citizenship Test offers tailored support for disabilities and language barriers. Applicants can request accommodations when booking through the Department of Home Affairs.

Disability & Special Accommodations

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and test centers provide help like extra time, braille materials, or sign-language interpreters (NAATI-certified). For example, visually impaired applicants can request enlarged text or screen readers. To get support, mention your needs during booking.

Key Accommodations:

• Braille/audio tests for vision challenges.
• Extra time for learning disabilities.
• Wheelchair access at all centers.

Language Support & Interpreter Services

Non-English speakers can use free Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) interpreters. The test itself is in English, but helpers explain rules in your language. Request this when booking—no cost added.

How It Works:

• TIS interpreters guide you before the test.
• No translated questions: You still answer in English.

Retake Policy & Procedures

If you don’t pass the Australian Citizenship Test, you can try again as many times as needed. The Department of Home Affairs lets you rebook for free using the ImmiAccount portal.

Retake Policy & Costs

Your first test is free and part of your citizenship application fee. If you fail three times, they might reject your application. Most people fail because they rush or don’t understand questions about Australian values (like the “Rule of Law”).

Key Rules:

• No extra fees: Retakes are free unless you miss your test without canceling.
• No punishment: Retrying won’t hurt your chance to become a citizen.

Waiting Periods & Scheduling

You can retake the test as soon as you find a new date. Use the ImmiAccount portal to pick a time—slots are usually free within 2–3 weeks. Rural centers often have shorter waits than cities.

How to Reschedule:

1. Log into ImmiAccount.
2. Cancel your old appointment.
3. Book a new date.

COVID-19 Adjustments (2025 Updates)

The Department of Home Affairs works with the Department of Health to keep citizenship tests safe. As of 2025, most COVID rules (like masks or social distancing) are optional, but test centres still clean surfaces and space seats apart.

Safety Rules & Remote Testing

You can wear a mask if you want, but it’s not required. Some centres offer remote test trials for high-risk applicants—ask when booking. If you’re sick, reschedule for free through ImmiAccount.

Key Changes:

• Social distancing: Optional, but space is still provided.
• Remote tests: Only for health exemptions (e.g., severe asthma).
• Fees: The 2025 fee ($540 AUD) still applies unless updated.

FAQs