Passing the Australian Citizenship Test is one of the key milestones toward becoming an Australian citizen. However, many applicants find it more challenging than expected — not because of English or history, but because of misunderstanding the test format and the Australian Values section, which can make or break your result.
This guide explains how the test works, what to expect on the day, and why understanding Australian values is crucial for success.
Structure of the Australian Citizenship Test
The citizenship test is computer-based, conducted in English, and consists of 20 multiple-choice questions. You’ll have 45 minutes to complete the test.
To pass:
- You must correctly answer all five Australian values questions.
- You must achieve at least 75% overall (15 correct answers out of 20).
- There is no negative marking.
- It is a closed-book test.
The test questions are randomly selected from the official resource, Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond.
Why the Values Section Matters
Of the 20 questions, five are dedicated to Australian values — and you must get all of them correct to pass. Even one wrong answer means you automatically fail, regardless of your overall score.
This strict requirement has made the values section the main reason behind rising failure rates in recent years.
Key Test Information
- Question count: 20 multiple-choice questions
- Passing score: 75% overall
- Values section: 5 questions, all must be correct
- Language: English only
- Format: Computer-based
Resources:Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond (testable sections only)
The 4 Testable Sections
All questions are based on the Our Common Bond booklet, focusing on the following four areas:
- Australia and its people
- Australia’s democratic beliefs, rights, and liberties
- Government and the law in Australia
- Australian values
For best results, read Our Common Bond thoroughly and review the official practice tests available on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Test Day Experience
Here’s what to expect on the day of your citizenship test appointment.
What to Bring
You must bring an original photo identity document (no copies or electronic versions). Acceptable photo IDs include:
- Australian driver’s licence
- Passport
- Australian-issued proof of age card
You may also need to bring other documents as requested in your appointment notice. If you arrive without photo ID, your appointment will be rescheduled.
When You Arrive
- Arrive 15 minutes early.
- Check in using your test confirmation.
- Wait to be called by an official for identity verification.
- Your ID will be checked (e.g., passport and driver’s licence).
- Once cleared, you’ll be directed to take the test.
Children are not allowed inside the test centre, so you’ll need to arrange childcare beforehand.
During and After the Test
At the test centre, staff will:
- Confirm your identity and eligibility to sit the test.
- Take your photo.
- Discuss your citizenship application briefly.
You’ll then complete the test on a computer.
Important: You must not bring any notes, books, or electronic devices into the test area. Personal belongings must be stored as instructed.
After the Test
- If you pass:
Your application will continue to be processed. You’ll be contacted if further information is needed or when a decision is made.
Once approved, you’ll receive an invitation to attend your citizenship ceremony, usually within a few weeks (timing may vary). - If you fail:
Failing does not affect your permanent visa or your right to live in Australia. You’ll be given another appointment to retake the test, free of charge.
You can retake the test up to three times. If you fail all three attempts, your application may be refused.
Tip: People who use Our Common Bond and take online practice tests have a 90% higher chance of passing on their next attempt.
To help you navigate and prepare for the Australian Citizenship Test, we are doing a series on Australian Citizenship Test Preparation.
In this series, you will learn everything you need to know about the test, its format, and the key topics for preparation. To help you prepare even better, we have included sample test questions throughout each article and video.
The next part of this series focuses on the Australian Values Section — an essential part of the test that you must master to pass.
[Continue reading: Australian Values for the Citizenship Test – Explained and Simplified]
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