Canadian Citizenship Test: Format, Study Guide and What Happens Next
The Canadian citizenship test has 20 questions, lasts 45 minutes, and you need at least 15 correct answers to pass. Most applicants aged 18 to 54 take it online and get up to 3 chances in a 30 day window. This guide shows how to study, how the online test works and what happens if you fail.
since 1991
What is the Canadian citizenship test?
The Canadian citizenship test is a knowledge test with 20 multiple choice or true or false questions. It covers the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the history, geography, economy, government, laws and symbols of Canada (IRCC, checked October 2026).
It does not test your English or French. Every question comes from the official study guide, Discover Canada.
How do I take the test?
Most applicants take it online, with webcam monitoring, from any location during a 30 day window. If you need support, you can ask for an in-person written or oral test, or a Microsoft Teams test, after you get your invitation. You can take it in English or French.
What to know before you start
- Study guide: every question comes from Discover Canada, which is free online, as audio and in print
- Timer: the 45 minute timer cannot be stopped, and the test submits itself when time runs out
- Chances: you get up to 3 chances to pass within the 30 days
Does the test apply to you?
Your age on the day you sign your application decides it.
You take the test if you
- Are 18 to 54 on the day you sign
- Applied for citizenship as a PR
- Received a test invitation
You do not take it if you
- Are under 18
- Are 55 or older
- Received a waiver
Not sure where you stand? Take the citizenship eligibility quiz.
Your path, in five parts
Each part has its own rules. Source: IRCC.
Study the guide
Read Discover Canada, which is free from IRCC.
Wait for your invitation
It arrives by email with a start date, an end date and a test link.
Take the online test
You need a webcam, a computer or tablet, valid ID and a steady connection.
If you miss it
A missed first invitation brings a new one. A second miss needs a written reason.
Results and next steps
Pass, and you may get an interview and a ceremony invitation. Fail all three, and you get a hearing.
Not sure where you stand?
We review your situation and tell you your next step.
Rules to know
20 questions
Multiple choice or true or false, on rights and responsibilities and on Canadian history, geography, economy, government, laws and symbols.
15 correct to pass
You need at least 15 of 20 right, which is 75 percent.
45 minutes, no pausing
The timer keeps running if you disconnect, and the test submits itself at the end.
Online equipment
Use a desktop, laptop or tablet with a webcam, Chrome or Safari, valid ID and good light. Avoid phones, VPNs and Microsoft Surface Pro devices.
Test alone
The system takes random webcam photos. Keep your face visible and use no other devices or study materials.
Accommodations
You can ask for an in-person written or oral test, a Teams test or an alternative format such as Braille.
Related pages
These guides cover the wider process.
How to avoid problems
Five habits keep you on track.
Study the whole guide
Every question comes from Discover Canada, so read all of it.
Practice under time
Practice 20 questions in 45 minutes.
Set up your space
Test alone, in good light, with your ID, and remove personal items from your background.
Watch your email
Invitations come from addresses ending in cic.gc.ca or canada.ca, so check your spam folder.
Ask early about support
If you need accommodations, ask after you get your invitation.
Want your application reviewed?
We check your file and tell you if you are ready.
Step by step
Six steps from start to finish.
Get your invitation
It arrives by email with a start date, an end date and a test link.
Study the guide
Read Discover Canada before you start.
Set up
Check your device, webcam, ID and internet.
Take the test
Answer 20 questions in 45 minutes.
Read your result
If you pass, wait for an interview or ceremony invitation.
If you fail
You get up to 3 chances in 30 days, then a hearing.
Five mistakes to avoid
These mistakes cost time and sometimes a second fee.
Skipping parts of the guide
Questions can come from any part of Discover Canada.
Using a phone or VPN
These cause problems with the online test.
Missing the 30 days
A missed invitation brings a second one, and a second miss can end your application.
Testing with help nearby
Other people, devices or notes break the test rules.
Ignoring spam folders
Your invitation may be filtered, so check every folder.
Key facts at a glance
Key facts from IRCC, checked October 2026. Last updated: October 2026.
Why clients choose Amir Ismail & Associates
35+ years of hands-on immigration experience and 25,000+ successful cases, from offices in Toronto, Dubai and Karachi. Our team includes Rijah Amir, also a licensed RCIC, so every file gets a second expert review.
Licensed expert guidance
Advice from CICC-licensed RCICs, not sales staff or unlicensed agents.
A strategy built for your profile
We identify the fastest realistic pathway for you, not a template.
Application accuracy
Documentation review that prevents costly errors and refusals.
Timely updates
We track every draw, policy shift and IRCC announcement for you.
End-to-end support
From eligibility checks to landing, we guide every step.
Proven track record
2026 Canadian Choice Award winner, trusted since 1991.
What our clients say
Real reviews from clients we have guided to Canada and beyond.
Citizenship test FAQs
How many questions are on the citizenship test?
The test has 20 questions, either multiple choice or true or false, and you get 45 minutes (IRCC, checked October 2026).
What is the pass mark?
You need at least 15 of 20 correct answers, which is 75 percent. You get up to 3 chances to pass within your 30 day test window.
Do I take the test online?
Most applicants do. The online test uses webcam monitoring and can be taken from any location during the 30 days. You can ask for an in-person or Microsoft Teams test if you need accommodations.
What do I need for the online test?
A desktop, laptop or tablet with a webcam, Chrome or Safari, valid ID, a reliable internet connection and good lighting. Avoid mobile phones, VPNs and Microsoft Surface Pro devices.
What happens if I fail all three attempts?
IRCC invites you to a hearing with a citizenship official, lasting 30 to 90 minutes. It can include an oral test of 20 questions (15 correct), questions about residence and a language check of up to 9 questions (6 correct). If you fail, your application is refused and you must reapply with new fees.
What if I miss the test?
If you miss the first online invitation, IRCC sends a new one with 3 more attempts in 30 days. If you miss the second, you must email IRCC with a reason, or your application can be treated as abandoned.
How long does rescheduling take?
It usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, and it can take longer. Email the address in your invitation with your application number and client identifier.
Who has to take the test?
Applicants aged 18 to 54 on the day they sign. People under 18, people 55 or older and people with a waiver do not take it.
Does the test check my language?
No. The test checks your knowledge of Canada and citizenship. Your English or French skills are shown separately. See our language tests page.
Where do I study?
Use Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship, the official study guide. IRCC offers it online, as audio and in print, with practice questions.