Australian Citizenship Test — Complete Overview
The Australian citizenship test is a mandatory step for most people applying for citizenship by conferral. This guide covers everything you need to know before booking and sitting the test.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | 20 multiple-choice questions (computer-based) |
| Pass mark | 15/20 (75%) — including all 5 values questions |
| Time limit | 45 minutes |
| Language | English only |
| Fee | Included in citizenship application fee (no separate charge) |
| Booking | Online via ImmiAccount after application lodged |
| Retakes | Unlimited, but must wait for next available appointment |
Test Structure (20 Questions Total)
1. Australian Values — 5 Questions (Must Pass All 5)
- Based on the Australian Values Statement (Migration Regulations 1994, Schedule 1)
- Covers the five core values (see our Five Values Guide)
- Critical: You must answer all 5 correctly to pass the test, even if your total score is ≥15
2. Australian History — ~5 Questions
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history (65,000+ years)
- European colonisation (1788 onwards)
- Federation (1901)
- World Wars I & II, Vietnam War
- Key national events and figures
3. Australian Government & Law — ~5 Questions
- Constitution and federation
- Three levels of government (federal, state/territory, local)
- Parliament, voting, and elections
- How laws are made
- Courts and the legal system
4. Australian Symbols — ~3 Questions
- National flag (Union Jack, Commonwealth Star, Southern Cross)
- National anthem (Advance Australia Fair)
- Coat of arms (kangaroo, emu, shield)
- National colours (green and gold)
- National day (Australia Day, 26 January)
5. Rights & Responsibilities — ~2 Questions
- Obeying Australian laws
- Voting in federal and state/territory elections (compulsory)
- Jury duty (if called)
- Paying taxes
- Defending Australia (if required)
The Official Study Resource
You must study: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond — the official resource book published by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Free PDF: Available at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
- Languages: English, plus translated versions for reference (test is English only)
- Chapters:
- Australia and its people
- Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights and liberties
- Government and the law in Australia
- Australian values (the 5 testable values)
Tip: The test questions are drawn directly from this book. Read it cover to cover at least twice.
Eligibility to Sit the Test
You can book the test only after you have:
- Lodged a valid citizenship by conferral application (Form 1300t or 1290)
- Received an acknowledgement letter from Home Affairs
- Been invited to sit the test (this happens automatically for most applicants)
Exemptions (no test required):
- Applicants aged 60 or over
- Applicants under 18
- Applicants with a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity (medical evidence required)
- Citizenship by descent or adoption applicants
Booking the Test
Step-by-step
- Log in to your ImmiAccount
- Select your citizenship application
- Click “Book citizenship test” (appears when you’re eligible)
- Choose a test centre, date, and time
- Confirm — you’ll receive a confirmation email with details
Test centres (major locations)
| State/Territory | Locations |
|---|---|
| NSW | Sydney, Parramatta, Liverpool, Newcastle, Wollongong |
| VIC | Melbourne, Dandenong, Sunshine, Geelong |
| QLD | Brisbane, Southport, Ipswich, Cairns, Townsville |
| WA | Perth, Joondalup, Rockingham |
| SA | Adelaide, Salisbury |
| ACT | Canberra |
| NT | Darwin, Alice Springs |
| TAS | Hobart, Launceston |
Note: Centres and availability change. Book early — popular slots fill weeks ahead.
What to Bring on Test Day
| Item | Required? |
|---|---|
| Test confirmation email (printed or on phone) | ✅ Yes |
| Photo ID (passport, driver licence, proof of age card) | ✅ Yes |
| Citizenship application reference number | ✅ Yes |
| Pens/pencils | ❌ Provided |
| Mobile phone | ❌ Must be switched off and stored |
| Bags/notes | ❌ Stored in locker |
What Happens on Test Day
- Arrive 15 minutes early — late arrivals may be refused entry
- Check in at reception — show ID and confirmation
- Store belongings in provided locker (phone off!)
- Sit at assigned computer — test supervisor explains rules
- Complete the test — 45 minutes, 20 questions
- Receive result immediately — pass/fail shown on screen
- Collect belongings and leave
If You Pass
- Your application continues processing
- You may be invited to a citizenship ceremony (usually within 6 months)
- At the ceremony, you make the Australian Citizenship Pledge and receive your certificate
If You Fail
- No limit on retakes — but you must wait for the next available appointment
- No extra fee — included in application
- Review the resource book — focus on areas you struggled with
- Use our practice questions to prepare
Special Arrangements
If you need adjustments due to disability or medical condition:
- Request when booking (or contact the test centre directly)
- Examples: extra time, reader/scribe, separate room, assistive technology
- Medical evidence may be required
Common Questions
Can I take the test in another language?
No. The test is English only. Translated resource books are for study reference only.
What if I’m not good with computers?
The test is computer-based but very simple — just click the answer. Staff can show you how to use the mouse/keyboard before starting.
Can I bring my children?
No. Children are not allowed in the test centre. Arrange childcare.
How long is the test result valid?
If you pass, the result is valid for the life of your citizenship application. If your application lapses, you may need to retest.
Next Steps
- 📖 Read Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond
- 🧠 Study our Five Values Guide
- 📝 Practice with our Practice Questions
- 📅 Book when invited via ImmiAccount
Sources
- Department of Home Affairs — Australian Citizenship Test
- Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond — Official resource book
- Australian Citizenship Act 2007
- Australian Citizenship Regulations 2016
Last updated: October 2026. Always verify current requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website.