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US Citizenship Test Changes Raise Concerns for Those with Low English Skills.
- Vikrant Gungash
- Aug 8, 2023
- 3 min read
Jessica Thakur August 8, 2023
The impending updates to the US citizenship test have sparked concerns among immigrants and advocates, particularly those with lower levels of English proficiency. The proposed changes are expected to impact test-takers' ability to navigate the language requirements effectively.
The US citizenship test represents a critical milestone on the path to naturalization, encompassing a months-long process that includes years of legal permanent residency before eligibility for application.
The backdrop for these changes includes the alterations introduced by the previous administration under former President Donald Trump in 2020, which made the test more extensive and challenging. However, shortly after President Joe Biden took office, an executive order aimed at reducing barriers to citizenship led to a reinstatement of the previous version of the test, last updated in 2008.
In December, US authorities announced their intention to update the test after 15 years. The forthcoming version is expected to be introduced late next year.
The proposed changes include the addition of a speaking section to evaluate English language skills. Test-takers would be presented with photos depicting ordinary scenarios, such as daily activities, weather, or food, and asked to verbally describe them.
In the existing test format, speaking ability is evaluated during the naturalization interview by revisiting personal questions that applicants have already addressed in their naturalization paperwork.
Critics, however, are concerned that the new format could inadvertently disadvantage those with lower English literacy levels, such as refugees, elderly immigrants, and individuals with disabilities affecting their test performance.
One example of increased difficulty involves a shift from a current multiple-choice question to a proposed format where applicants must select the correct answer from several choices. This change necessitates a broader knowledge base, posing potential challenges for those striving to achieve a higher level of language proficiency.
The current test mandates answering six out of 10 civics questions correctly to pass. These questions are drawn from a bank of 100 civics questions, and applicants have the opportunity to review and study them prior to the test.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services intends to conduct a nationwide trial of the proposed changes in 2023, soliciting public feedback before an external panel of experts reviews the results and offers recommendations. The goal is to implement changes that align with best practices in test design.
The complexity and implications of these changes extend beyond the testing realm. Advocates emphasize that the language proficiency standards are an integral part of the citizenship process, shaping the integration and participation of newcomers in the broader society.
As the United States seeks to balance accessibility with ensuring an informed and engaged citizenry, the evolution of the citizenship test continues to be a topic of debate and concern.
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