How to pass the citizenship test: 9 practical tips

Updated 12 October 2026

The Australian citizenship test has 20 questions and you have 45 minutes. To pass, you need at least 15 out of 20 and all 5 values questions right (see how the test works). These tips will help you prepare calmly and in order.

1. Read the testable booklet once

All questions come from the four testable parts of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond. Read them once from start to finish before you worry about details. It is free from Home Affairs (PDF), and you can also read it in your language.

2. Take Test 1 cold to find your baseline

Before you study hard, take one full practice test. Your result shows your score and which pass rule you missed, if any. This tells you where to spend your time.

3. Review every explanation

After each test, read the explanation for every question, including the ones you got right. Each one tells you the part of the booklet to re-read. This is where most of the learning happens.

4. Retake until you pass it

Each of our tests keeps the same 20 questions, so retaking a test shows whether you have really learned them. Keep going until you pass, and watch your best score climb.

5. Spread across all 20 tests

Once you pass one test, move on to the next. Our 20 tests use 160 different questions, and any two tests share only a few. Working through them all covers every testable part of the booklet.

6. Nail the values questions first

You must get all 5 values questions right. A score of 19 out of 20 still fails if the wrong answer is a values question. Study Part 4 of the booklet early and use our values questions guide.

7. Practise with the timer

You have 45 minutes for 20 questions, which is just over 2 minutes per question. Our tests use the same 45-minute timer, so you get used to working at a steady pace without rushing.

8. Use the free Home Affairs practice test too

Home Affairs has its own free practice test. Use it alongside our tests for extra practice.

9. Rest the night before

Don’t try to learn new things on the last night. Do one short review, check your appointment details with Home Affairs, and get a good night’s sleep.

Didn’t pass last time?

That’s OK. Look at which rule you missed. If it was the values questions, start with tip 6. If it was the overall score, use tips 3 to 5 to find the parts of the booklet you need to re-read. Check with Home Affairs about booking your next test.