2026 edition
Australian Citizenship Test study guide
A practical preparation plan for the Australian Citizenship Test, based on publicly available official study material.
Exam questions
20
Passing score
75%
Time limit
45 min
Practice questions
52
Test overview
The Australian citizenship test checks that you understand Australia’s people, democratic beliefs, rights and liberties, government and laws, plus Australian values.
The test has 20 multiple-choice questions with a 45-minute limit, and you need 75% to pass according to the official format at our last review. The test is in English and is computer-based.
All testable content comes from the Our Common Bond study book, so focused practice is very effective. Always confirm current requirements with the Department of Home Affairs before your appointment.
How the test works
- After lodging your application, you book a test appointment with Home Affairs.
- You answer 20 multiple-choice questions on a computer, in English.
- You have up to 45 minutes and need at least 75% to pass.
- If you do not pass, you can usually rebook; repeated failures may lead to further steps in your application.
What to study
The exam draws on the topics below. Practise each one separately, then combine them in a full test.
History
First Australians, European settlement, Federation and modern Australia.
10 practice questions available
Geography
States, territories, capital cities and the natural landscape of Australia.
11 practice questions available
Government & Law
Australia’s constitutional monarchy, federal parliament, elections and the Constitution.
8 practice questions available
Democratic Values & Rights
Freedom, equality, the rule of law and the responsibilities of Australian citizens.
10 practice questions available
Symbols & Traditions
The flag, anthem, national colours and symbols of Australia.
13 practice questions available
Study strategy
- Read the testable sections of Our Common Bond first; every question comes from them.
- Pay special attention to Australian values and responsibilities of citizenship, which feature heavily.
- Use flashcards for symbols, dates and national facts like the anthem and flower.
- Practise with timed mock exams here until you consistently score well above 75%.
- Review incorrect answers immediately and revisit the matching chapter of the book.
- Study in short daily sessions to build knowledge and a steady streak.
Start practicing
Put the plan into action with free practice and mock tests.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the Australian citizenship test?
Based on the official format at our last review, the test has 20 multiple-choice questions drawn from the testable section of Our Common Bond. Confirm current details on the Home Affairs website.
What is the passing score?
You need at least 75% overall to pass, according to the official format at the time of our last review. All questions must be answered in English.
How long do I have to complete the test?
You are given up to 45 minutes, as described in official guidance at our last review.
Do questions about Australian values appear on the test?
Yes. The current format includes questions on Australian values such as freedom, respect and equality, drawn from the testable part of the official book, as described at our last review.
Where can I find the official study book?
Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond is published by the Department of Home Affairs and is free to download. We link to it from every page so you can verify anything you read here.