Australian Citizenship Test: Format, Topics & How to Prepare
The Australian citizenship test is the final step before becoming an Australian citizen (for most applicants). It tests your knowledge of Australia — its values, history, government system, and national symbols. With 20 questions and a 75% pass requirement, the test is manageable with proper preparation. Here's everything you need to know.
Quick Facts: Citizenship Test
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 20 multiple choice |
| Pass Mark | 75% (15 out of 20 correct) |
| Australian Values Questions | 5 (must get all correct) |
| Time Limit | 45 minutes |
| Language | English |
| Cost | Free (included in citizenship application) |
| Study Resource | "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond" booklet |
| Format | Computer-based at Department offices |
Test Structure
The citizenship test consists of 20 multiple choice questions drawn from the official resource book "Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond."
Section 1: Australian Values (5 Questions)
Five questions specifically test Australian values. You must answer all five correctly to pass — getting even one wrong means failing the test, regardless of your overall score.
Values questions cover:
- Democracy and the rule of law
- Freedom of speech and expression
- Freedom of religion and secular government
- Equality of men and women
- English as the national language
- Mutual respect and tolerance
- Commitment to obeying Australian laws
Section 2: General Knowledge (15 Questions)
The remaining 15 questions cover:
- Australia's history: Indigenous history, European settlement, Federation, significant events
- Government and democracy: Three levels of government (federal, state, local), the Constitution, Parliament, the Governor-General, voting
- Australian symbols: Flag, coat of arms, national anthem, national colours
- Australian society: Multiculturalism, freedoms, responsibilities of citizens
You need to answer at least 10 out of these 15 correctly (combined with all 5 values questions correct) to reach the 75% pass mark.
Topics Covered in Detail
Australian Values and Principles
- Parliamentary democracy
- Rule of law — everyone is equal before the law
- Freedom of speech, expression, and association
- Freedom of religion (and freedom from religion)
- Equality of opportunity regardless of gender, race, or background
- A "fair go" for all
- Compassion for those in need
- Peaceful resolution of disagreements
History
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (65,000+ years of continuous civilisation)
- European exploration and First Fleet (1788)
- Colonial period and development
- Federation (1 January 1901)
- World Wars and Anzac Day
- Post-war migration
- Indigenous rights milestones (1967 referendum, Mabo decision, National Apology)
Government
- Three levels of government: Commonwealth (federal), State/Territory, Local
- The Constitution
- The Parliament: House of Representatives and Senate
- The Prime Minister and Cabinet
- The Governor-General (representative of the King)
- How laws are made
- Voting is compulsory for Australian citizens
- State and territory governments and their responsibilities
Symbols and Identity
- The Australian flag (Union Jack, Southern Cross, Commonwealth Star)
- The coat of arms (kangaroo and emu)
- National anthem: "Advance Australia Fair"
- National colours: green and gold
- Anzac Day (25 April) and Australia Day (26 January)
How to Prepare
The Official Study Resource
"Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond" is the official preparation resource. All test questions are drawn from this book. It's available:
- Free online from the Department of Home Affairs website
- In printed format from citizenship offices
- In multiple languages (for study purposes — the test itself is in English)
Study Strategy
- Read the entire booklet at least twice
- Focus on Australian values — you must get all 5 values questions right
- Practice with sample questions available on the Department's website
- Pay attention to specific facts: dates, names, numbers of parliamentarians, etc.
- Understand the three levels of government — this is commonly tested
- Know the key symbols: what they represent, their components
Practice Tests
The Department of Home Affairs website provides free practice tests that simulate the actual test format. These are the best preparation tool because:
- Questions are drawn from the same question bank as the real test
- The format matches the actual test
- You can identify areas where you need more study
- They help with time management
Taking the Test
On Test Day
- Arrive at your appointment time at the designated Department office
- Bring your identity documents (passport, ImmiCard, etc.)
- The test is taken on a computer
- Questions are presented one at a time
- You can navigate back and forth between questions
- 45-minute time limit (more than enough for 20 questions)
After the Test
- Results are given immediately
- If you pass, you proceed to the citizenship ceremony scheduling
- If you fail, you can retake the test (unlimited attempts within the validity of your citizenship application)
If You Fail
There's no penalty for failing. You can retake the test on a new appointment. Many applicants who fail simply need to study the booklet more thoroughly, particularly the values section. You can book a new test within days of failing.
Who Is Exempt from the Test?
Some applicants are exempt from the citizenship test:
- Under 18: Children under 18 do not take the test
- Over 60: Applicants aged 60 and over may be exempt or may sit a simplified version
- Significant disability: Applicants with permanent physical or mental incapacity that prevents them from understanding the test
- Hearing, speech, or sight impairment: Accommodations are available, including assisted tests
Eligibility for Citizenship
Before you reach the test stage, you need to meet citizenship eligibility requirements:
- Be a permanent resident
- Have lived in Australia for at least 4 years (including at least 12 months as a permanent resident)
- Not have been absent from Australia for more than 12 months in total during the 4-year period (and not more than 90 days in the 12 months before application)
- Be of good character
- Intend to live in or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia
- Have a basic knowledge of English
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the citizenship test?
Most applicants pass on their first attempt. The test is based entirely on the official booklet, so thorough study of the material makes it quite manageable. The values section requires perfect scores, so pay particular attention to those questions.
Can I take the test in a language other than English?
No. The test is only available in English. This is intentional — basic English knowledge is a citizenship requirement. However, assisted tests with interpreters may be available for certain exempt categories.
How many times can I take the test?
There's no limit on attempts within the validity period of your citizenship application.
What happens after I pass?
You'll be invited to a citizenship ceremony where you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. You officially become an Australian citizen at the ceremony.
Can I study from other sources besides the official booklet?
The official booklet is the primary source. Third-party apps and study guides exist, but questions are drawn from the official resource. Using the official material and Department practice tests is the most reliable preparation strategy.
How long between the test and the ceremony?
This varies by location. In some areas, ceremonies are held monthly; in others, it may be less frequent. Typical waits range from a few weeks to a few months.
