About the Australian Citizenship Test
The Australian citizenship test is a mandatory step for most applicants seeking to become Australian citizens. Administered by the Department of Home Affairs, the test ensures that prospective citizens have an adequate knowledge of Australia, including its values, traditions, history, and system of government.
The test is based on the official resource book Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, which is available as a free download from the Department's website. You are strongly encouraged to read the entire booklet before sitting the test.
Test Format and Requirements
The citizenship test consists of the following:
- 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official question bank
- 45 minutes to complete the test
- 75% pass mark — you must answer at least 15 of 20 questions correctly
- 5 questions are about Australian values — you must get all 5 correct
- The test is conducted in English at a Department office or approved testing centre
If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can sit the test again. There is no limit to the number of attempts, but you must wait before rebooking.
What Topics Are Covered?
The test covers three main themes from Our Common Bond:
- Australian values — including freedom, respect, equality, and the rule of law. Questions on values must all be answered correctly.
- Australia and its people — covering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, the story of Australia, and national symbols such as the flag, coat of arms, and national anthem.
- Australia's democratic beliefs, rights and liberties — including how government works at federal, state, and local levels, the role of Parliament, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
How to Prepare
To maximise your chance of passing on the first attempt:
- Read Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond thoroughly — it is the sole source for test questions.
- Use this free practice quiz to familiarise yourself with the question format and identify areas where you need further study.
- Pay special attention to the Australian values section, as all five values questions must be answered correctly.
- Learn the key facts: national symbols, the date of Federation (1 January 1901), the structure of Parliament, Anzac Day, and the role of the Governor-General.
Eligibility for the Citizenship Test
You can sit the citizenship test once you have lodged your citizenship application and been invited to attend a test appointment. To be eligible for Australian citizenship by conferral, you generally must:
- Be a permanent resident of Australia
- Have lived in Australia on a valid visa for at least 4 years, including at least 12 months as a permanent resident
- Be of good character
- Intend to live in or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the real test harder than this practice quiz?
The real test draws from a larger question bank, but the topics and difficulty level are similar to our practice questions. If you can consistently pass this practice quiz and have read Our Common Bond, you should be well prepared.
Can I take the test in a language other than English?
The test is conducted in English only. However, applicants aged 60 or over, or those with a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity, may be exempt from the test. An interpreter may be provided for the citizenship interview in some cases.
What happens after I pass?
After passing the test and having your application approved, you will be invited to attend a citizenship ceremony where you will make the Australian Citizenship Pledge. You officially become an Australian citizen at the ceremony.