What is the task for the reading portion of the English test?
You must correctly read one (1) sentence aloud from a list of up to three (3) sentences that the USCIS officer shows you on a tablet or paper.
What is the task for the writing portion of the English test?
You must correctly write one (1) sentence that the USCIS officer dictates to you. You will be given up to three (3) chances to write a sentence correctly.
How many sentences will you be asked to read to pass the reading test?
You only need to read one sentence correctly. If you read the first one correctly, the test is over. If not, you get a second and possibly a third chance.
How many sentences will you be asked to write to pass the writing test?
You only need to write one sentence correctly. If you make a mistake on the first one, the officer will dictate a second, and then a third sentence if necessary.
Where do the vocabulary words for the reading and writing test sentences come from?
The sentences are created from an official vocabulary list provided by USCIS. The words often relate to U.S. civics and history.
Are minor spelling or grammar errors allowed on the writing test?
Minor errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation are generally acceptable, as long as the officer can read and understand the meaning of the sentence you wrote.
What happens if you fail either the reading or the writing portion of the test?
If you fail any part of the English test (speaking, reading, or writing), the interview stops and you will have to come back for a second interview to retake the part you failed.
Can you skip words when reading the sentence aloud?
No, you must read the entire sentence as written. Omitting words will likely result in that attempt being marked as incorrect.
For the writing test, what tools are used?
The officer will give you a stylus to write the sentence on a digital tablet.
