Australian citizenship test format and pass mark

What the test looks like, how it’s marked, and what to study.

• 20multiple-choice questions, in English
• 45minutes to answer them
• 75%to pass: at least 15 correct
• 5 of 5Australian values questions must be correct

The values rule

Five of the 20 questions are about Australian values. You must answer all five correctly. If you miss even one, you won’t pass, even if your overall score is 75% or more. That’s why it pays to practise the values questions until you get them right every time.

What the questions cover

All questions come from the four testable parts of the official booklet, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond:

1. Australia and its people: history, states and territories, national symbols and days
2. Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties: freedoms, equality, responsibilities and privileges of citizenship
3. Government and the law in Australia: the Constitution, parliament, levels of government, courts and police
4. Australian values: respect, equality, a fair go, mateship and the Rule of Law

The booklet also has non-testable sections. You won’t be asked about those.

How to prepare

• Read the four testable parts of Our Common Bond. It’s free from Home Affairs.
• Practise questions part by part and read the explanation for every answer you get wrong.
• Take timed mock tests: 20 questions in 45 minutes, with the values rule.
• Keep revising your mistakes until they stick.

Test arrangements such as appointments, identity documents and attempts can change. Always check the latest details on the Home Affairs website.

Quick answers

How many questions are in the Australian citizenship test?

20 multiple-choice questions, in English.

How long do you get?

45 minutes.

What is the pass mark?

At least 15 out of 20 (75%), and you must answer all 5 Australian values questions correctly.

What does the test cover?

The four testable parts of the official booklet Our Common Bond: Australia and its people; democratic beliefs, rights and liberties; government and the law; and Australian values.