Short answer: the Australian citizenship test has 20 multiple-choice questions and you have 45 minutes. To pass you need at least 15 correct (75%) and you must answer all 5 Australian values questions correctly. There is no extra fee; the test is included in your citizenship application.
The numbers at a glance
| Questions | 20, multiple choice |
|---|---|
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | 15 of 20 (75%) overall, plus 5 of 5 on the Australian values questions |
| Source material | Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond (testable section) |
| Format | Computer-based, at a Department of Home Affairs office, usually at the same appointment as your citizenship interview |
| Who takes it | Most applicants for citizenship by conferral aged 18 to 59 |
| Fee | No extra cost; included in the citizenship application fee |
| Language | English; the test also serves as the basic English assessment |
| Who is exempt | Under 18, 60 and over, and people with a permanent physical or mental incapacity or certain sight, hearing or speech impairments |
The five values questions
Of the 20 questions, five are about Australian values: the shared values in the Australian Values Statement, such as respect for the freedom and dignity of the individual, equality of men and women, freedom of religion, commitment to the rule of law and parliamentary democracy, and equality of opportunity. You must get all five right. A score of 19 out of 20 is a fail if the one you missed was a values question. Treat the values section of Our Common Bond as the first thing to master.
What the other questions cover
The remaining 15 come from the other three testable sections: Australia and its people; Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties; and government and the law in Australia. Expect dates (Federation, Anzac Day), numbers (states and territories, Senate and House terms), the three levels of government and how laws are made. Our Australian citizenship questions and answers follow these sections, and the Australian citizenship practice test applies the real values rule in its mock exams.
How many can I get wrong?
Up to five, as long as none of them is a values question. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so answer everything. You get your result on the day.
What if I fail?
You can usually sit the test again at a later appointment. If you fail three times your application may be refused, so prepare properly before the first attempt. See what happens if you fail a citizenship test.
Related guides
Australian citizenship test: format, values questions and pass mark · Citizenship rights and responsibilities · Test day tips
Official source
Department of Home Affairs, Learn about the citizenship test and Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au).
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