Applicants aged 60 or over at the time of lodging their citizenship application can request an oral Australian Citizenship Test instead of the standard computer-based version. The same 20 questions, 75% pass mark, and mandatory values questions apply — only the delivery method changes. You still need to study "Our Common Bond" in full.
Applicants who are 60 or older at the time they lodge their citizenship application are entitled to request an oral citizenship test. Instead of sitting at a computer and selecting multiple-choice answers, a departmental officer asks you the test questions verbally and you respond verbally. The content, pass mark, and structure of the test remain identical to the standard computer-based version.
This modification is designed to accommodate candidates who may find computer-based testing challenging due to age-related factors. It is not an easier test — it is the same test delivered differently. Thorough preparation using "Our Common Bond" remains essential.
Who Qualifies for the Modified Oral Test?
According to the Department of Home Affairs, two categories of applicants can request an oral citizenship test:
- Applicants aged 60 or over at the date of application lodgement
- Applicants with a permanent or enduring physical or mental incapacity that prevents them from sitting the standard computer-based test (supporting documentation required)
For the age-based accommodation, no special documentation is needed beyond proof of age. Your age will be verified against your passport and visa records already held by the Department of Home Affairs.
What Is the Oral Citizenship Test Like?
The oral Australian Citizenship Test is conducted by a trained departmental officer at a Home Affairs office. Here is what to expect:
- The officer reads each of the 20 test questions to you aloud
- You respond verbally with your chosen answer
- You may ask for a question to be repeated once if needed
- The session typically takes 20–30 minutes
- Your results are provided to you at or shortly after the session
- The test is still based entirely on "Our Common Bond"
The questions and answer options are the same as the computer-based version. You are not required to write anything. The environment is one-on-one, quiet, and private — many candidates find this less stressful than a test centre computer environment.
Does the Pass Mark Change for Over 60s?
No. The pass criteria for the oral test are identical to the computer-based test:
- 75% overall pass mark — you must answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly
- All 5 Australian values questions must be answered correctly — this is mandatory regardless of test format or applicant age
There is no reduced pass mark or modified question set for older applicants. The accommodation is in the delivery format only.
| Element | Standard Test (Under 60) | Oral Test (60 and Over) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery format | Computer-based, multiple choice | Officer reads questions verbally |
| Number of questions | 20 | 20 |
| Pass mark | 75% (15/20) | 75% (15/20) |
| Values questions | All 5 must be correct | All 5 must be correct |
| Study resource | Our Common Bond | Our Common Bond |
| Duration | Up to 45 minutes | Approximately 20–30 minutes |
| Environment | Test centre computer | One-on-one with Home Affairs officer |
How to Request an Oral Citizenship Test
The process for requesting an oral test is straightforward:
- Lodge your citizenship application through ImmiAccount as normal
- When you reach the section about the citizenship test, indicate that you wish to have an oral test
- The Department of Home Affairs will contact you to schedule an appointment at your nearest office
- Bring valid photo ID to your appointment (passport, Australian driver's licence)
If you have already lodged your application and did not request an oral test, contact the Department of Home Affairs directly to request one before your test is scheduled.
How to Prepare for the Oral Citizenship Test
Preparation for the oral test is virtually identical to preparation for the computer-based test — the content is the same. Here is what to focus on:
1. Study "Our Common Bond" Thoroughly
Every question — whether delivered by computer or by a departmental officer — comes from "Our Common Bond". Download it from the Department of Home Affairs website or use our structured study guide which covers all the same content in a more accessible format.
2. Master the 5 Australian Values Questions
These are the most important questions in the entire test. You must answer all 5 correctly regardless of your age or test format. The values tested are freedom of the individual, equality of opportunity, mutual respect, the rule of law, and parliamentary democracy — all drawn from "Our Common Bond."
3. Practise Speaking Your Answers Aloud
Unlike the computer-based test, the oral test requires you to say your answer. Some candidates find it helpful to practise taking practice quizzes and reading their answers aloud. This builds comfort with speaking test answers in a one-on-one setting.
4. Take Practice Tests
Our free practice tests mirror the real Australian Citizenship Test. Even though your test will be oral, practising with written questions builds your knowledge base and helps you identify weak areas well before your appointment.
Practice Before Your Oral Test
Our free practice tests cover all four categories tested in the oral citizenship test. Know the answers before the appointment.
Start Free Practice TestOther Citizenship Rules Relevant to Applicants Over 60
Residence Requirements Still Apply
The general citizenship eligibility requirements apply to all applicants regardless of age. You must have lawfully resided in Australia for at least 4 years immediately before your application, including at least 1 year as a permanent resident. Time spent on temporary visas (such as tourist or student visas) does not count toward the residency requirement.
Good Character Requirement
All applicants must be of good character. According to the Department of Home Affairs, this includes considerations of criminal history, migration compliance, and general conduct in Australia.
The Citizenship Ceremony
After passing the test and having your application approved, you will be invited to a citizenship ceremony. The ceremony involves making the Australian Citizenship Pledge — a formal commitment to Australia and its values. Ceremonies are typically held within 12 months of approval, though many are scheduled within a few months.
Bringing a Support Person
If you are over 60 and attending the oral test, you may wish to check with your local Home Affairs office whether a support person can accompany you to the appointment (though not during the test itself). Policies can vary by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take an oral test if I'm over 60, or can I choose the computer-based test?
The oral test is an option, not a requirement. Applicants aged 60 and over can choose to take the standard computer-based Australian Citizenship Test if they prefer. The oral test is simply available as an accommodation for those who find it more accessible. Whichever format you choose, the content and pass criteria are the same.
What if I fail the oral citizenship test?
You can resit the test. There is no limit on the number of attempts. If you fail, the Department of Home Affairs will advise you of the areas where you need improvement. Use that feedback to guide your re-study, focusing particularly on the Australian values questions and any categories where you struggled. Our study guide breaks content down by category to make targeted study easy.
Is the oral citizenship test available everywhere in Australia?
The oral test is available at Department of Home Affairs offices across Australia. Availability of specific appointment times may vary by location. In regional areas, wait times for oral test appointments may be longer than in capital cities. Check ImmiAccount or contact your nearest Home Affairs office for appointment availability at your location.
What documents do I need to bring to an oral citizenship test?
Bring valid photo identification — typically your current passport and Australian permanent residence visa evidence. The Home Affairs officer will advise you of any additional documents required when your appointment is confirmed. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow for check-in procedures.
My spouse and I are both over 60 and applying together — can we sit the oral test at the same time?
Each applicant must sit their test individually and independently. Even if you apply together, you will each have a separate oral test appointment. You cannot assist or prompt each other during the test. However, it may be possible to schedule your appointments on the same day — check with your local Home Affairs office when booking. Use our free account to track your preparation progress separately for each applicant.