Australian Citizenship Test – Everything You Wanted to Know

The Australian citizenship test was introduced through the Australian Citizenship Amendment (Citizenship Testing) Act on 12 September 2007, to test Individuals, between the age of 18 to 60 and who have applied for citizenship to Australia.

As of the latest available data, more than 6 million people have become Australian citizens by conferral since the introduction of Australian citizenship in 1949. In the 2022-23 period alone, 192,947 people were conferred Australian citizenship

What is the Citizenship Test?

The Australian Citizenship Test is a mandatory assessment designed to evaluate your knowledge of Australia’s history, culture, values, and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. The test is a crucial part of the citizenship application process and is intended to ensure that applicants have a basic understanding of what it means to be an Australian citizen.

The computer-based test is designed with an intent to assess knowledge of Australia, Australian values and knowledge of the rights & responsibilities of Australian citizenship. The underlying idea is to encourage prospective fully participate in  the Australian community’ by promoting a standard of proficiency in English and an understanding of Australian life.

Eligibility

Before you can take the citizenship test, you must meet certain eligibility criteria in general.

1. Permanent Residency: You must be a permanent resident of Australia.
2. Age: You must be at least 18 years old when you sit for the test.
3. Residence Requirement: You should have lived in Australia for at least four years, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident.
4. Good Character: You must demonstrate good character, which may involve background checks.

Refer the official website for latest details – Become a citizen

How Long Does It Take to Get Citizenship After the Test?

The timeline for obtaining citizenship after taking the test can vary. Generally, you can expect the following:

1. Test Day: After passing the test, you will receive a notice regarding your citizenship interview and ceremony.
2. Processing Time: The Department of Home Affairs typically processes citizenship applications within several months. However, this can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications.
3. Citizenship Ceremony: If your application is approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony, where you will take the pledge of commitment and officially become an Australian citizen.

On average, the entire process can take anywhere from six months to a year, so it’s essential to be patient.

Cost Associated

There are costs associated with applying for Australian citizenship, including:

• Application Fee: The fee for applying for citizenship is currently AUD 490 for adults and AUD 240 for children under 16. These fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most current information.
• Other Costs: Additional costs may include expenses related to obtaining documents, such as police checks or translations if required.

What is Tested?

The citizenship test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score at least 75% (15 correct answers) to pass. The questions cover various topics, including:

• Australian history, geography, and government
• The rights and responsibilities of citizens
• Australian values and culture
• The significance of the Australian flag and anthem

All the questions in the citizenship test are based on the information contained in the testable section of the ‘Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond‘. 

Exemptions to the Citizenship Test

Certain individuals may be exempt from taking the citizenship test, including:

• Children: Applicants under the age of 18 are not required to take the test.
• Older Applicants: Individuals aged 60 years or older are exempt.
• Medical Conditions: If you have a physical or mental incapacity that prevents you from understanding the test, you may be exempt, but you will need to provide medical documentation.

If you believe you qualify for an exemption, ensure you provide the necessary evidence when applying.

Applicants who do not need to sit the citizenship test may need to attend an interview. If the department needs to interview you, they will contact you with the details.

What Happens After the Test?

If you pass the test, your application will progress and the department will contact you more information is needed or when a decision has been made on your application.

If everything goes well, your application will be processed, and you will receive a decision by mail. If approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony.

What Happens If You Fail the Test?

If you do not pass the citizenship test, don’t lose hope. You have the opportunity to retake the test. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Retake: You can retake the test as soon as you feel ready. There is no limit to the number of times you can attempt the test.
2. Feedback: You will receive feedback on your performance, which can help you prepare for your next attempt.
3. Application Status: Failing the test does not automatically mean your application will be rejected; it simply means you need to pass the test to continue the process.

The cost of this citizenship test is covered by the application fee. There is no additional fees in case the test has to be taken again.