Educational Requirements

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USCIS Policy Manual › Volume 12 - Citizenship and Naturalization › Part D - General Naturalization Requirements › USCIS Policy Manual, Vol. 12, Pt. D, Ch. 8

This text was captured on Aug 14, 2026. It is a snapshot, not a live feed, so check the official code before relying on it.

Text

In general, applicants for naturalization must demonstrate an understanding of the English language, including an ability to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage. Applicants must also demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the history and principles and form of government of the United States (civics). These are the English and civics requirements for naturalization.

An applicant may be eligible for an exception to the English requirements if he or she is a certain age and has been an LPR for a certain period of time. In addition, an applicant who has a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment may be eligible for a medical exception of both the English and civics requirements. [1]

Footnote

[1] See INA 312 and 8 CFR 312 . See Part E, English and Civics Testing and Exceptions [ 12 USCIS-PM E ].

This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.

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