THE AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP TEST

How to Pass the Australian Citizenship Test the 1st time!

Recently I read an article about a Citizenship Applicant who is due to sit their test for the 6th time!
This left me wondering – how can I help you pass it the first time?  I feel that if you engage me as your agent to assist and lodge your application then I should do more to ensure even the very last step is successful.  Yes I will make sure you will be successful in moving to the test stage, but I should also ensure you are ready to pass the test and achieve formal Citizenship success!

The importance of CitizenshiP

Citizenship is valuable in more ways than just saying “I’m Australian”.  It allows you the right to vote and even one day become Prime Minister yourself if you have that aspiration.  It will give you access to certain government services through the NDIS, Medicare and other social services.  You will also hold an Australian passport and no need to apply for a Resident Return Visa ever again!

Why does the Government need to Test people?

The test assesses a person’s basic English level and knowledge of Australia’s history, values, rights and responsibilities.  It wants to ensure that those seeking to become Australian truly reflect what it is to be an Australian, not just a passport holder.

The Test FormaT

The test is issued in English only and consists of 20 multiple-choice questions, with a pass mark of 75% (15 correct answers).  Of those 20 questions, 5 are specific about Australian Values and must be answered correctly to pass.

Key areas tested, include:

• Australia, it’s people and history
• Government and legal systems
• Rights and responsibilities of citizenship
• Australian culture and values

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You will be given 45 mins to complete the test.

Can someone help me on the day?

Unfortunately you can’t have a support person with you. Computers and tablet devices have headsets for audio, so if you can’t read English well, you can choose to listen to the questions also.  

However - If you indicate in your application that you do require assistance and explain why, the Department might offer you an Assisted Test.  The criteria to show this will be that you have completed at least 400 hours of English language tuition under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP); or you have an impairment at the time of the test that means you need additional time.  An Assisted Test will provide you with 90 minutes to complete the test.

Should I study for the test?

Absolutely!  Even those of us who are Australian and take the practice tests online can find the questions difficult (Me included!). I can only imagine those who do not have English as their first language and have not been living in Australia for an extended period of time, can feel overwhelmed by it all. 

Official Study Guide:

​There is an official book called “Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond” that is provided by the Department of Home Affairs and includes all the essential information and sample questions.  You can also download only the testable part of the book so you can focus your studies better.  There are also translated versions of the book so you can cross-reference your understanding.  Remember the test is in English.

Online Resources:

There is a podcast issued by the Department and there are also third party websites like the Australian Citizenship Test website that have practice tests available.  Doing these can help calm your nerves.
Go to this website for more practice and help!

Community Support:

You may also look to your local community resources such as your local library that may run sessions for prospective citizens where they share tips and resources.

Tips for SuccesS

• Create a Study Plan: Set aside regular study times leading up to the test.  Perhaps just 15 minutes reading and studying one chapter of the guide per day.
  
• Practice Tests: Taking the practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question format and use of a computer can show you where you need improvement.
  
• Don’t Rush: Take your time to read each question carefully as you won’t be able to go back once you have selected your answer.  Do not make hasty decisions.
  
• ​Inadequate Preparation: Take time to study and prepare for the test. Don’t just start studying the night before!

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With the right preparation you shouldn’t have any stress when coming to take the test.  Look to it as a positive experience and that passing the test is just another significant step toward citizenship.  Good Luck (even though you don’t need it)!

Great Australian Migration can assist with all your Citizenship needs - contact us today!