The Australian Citizenship Test does not directly test your English proficiency — it tests your knowledge of Australian history, values, and government. Non-English speakers can prepare effectively by using translated materials, visual study aids, and daily practice tests. The 5 mandatory values questions must be answered correctly.
Non-English speakers can absolutely pass the Australian Citizenship Test by focusing on content knowledge rather than language mastery. According to the Department of Home Affairs, the test assesses your understanding of Australian values, history, and democratic processes — not your English level. With the right study materials and approach, candidates from all language backgrounds pass every day.
This guide gives you practical, proven strategies tailored specifically for candidates who speak English as a second language.
Why English Proficiency Is Not Directly Tested
The Australian Citizenship Test is a multiple-choice test — you select from 4 options for each of the 20 questions. You do not need to write essays, give spoken answers, or compose sentences in English. What you need is enough English comprehension to:
- Read the 20 test questions on screen
- Understand the 4 answer options for each question
- Read the official study booklet "Our Common Bond"
That said, all test questions are in English. The Department of Home Affairs does not currently provide the test in other languages. Your goal is to understand the concepts in the study material well enough that the English wording of the questions does not trip you up.
The Most Critical Section: Australian Values Questions
The Australian Citizenship Test contains 5 mandatory values questions that you must answer correctly. Even if you get all other questions right, failing even one values question means you fail the test. These questions cover:
- Freedom — of speech, religion, and association
- Equality — between men and women, and among all people
- Respect — for others regardless of background
- Democracy — the right to vote and participate in government
- The rule of law — everyone must follow Australian laws
These concepts are universal and translate well across cultures. Study them in your native language first, then learn the English terms used in "Our Common Bond".
7 Study Tips for Non-English Speakers
1. Read Our Common Bond in Your Native Language First
The official resource "Our Common Bond" is available as a free PDF from the Department of Home Affairs. Before studying the English version, search for a translated summary or ask a bilingual community member to help you understand the key concepts. Once you understand what is being said, the English wording becomes much easier to follow.
2. Use Official Translated Resources
The Department of Home Affairs provides some citizenship information in multiple languages. Check their website for translated fact sheets and guides. Your local AMES Australia or migrant resource centre may also offer citizenship preparation classes in your language.
3. Focus on Key Terms and Phrases
Create a glossary of the most important English terms from "Our Common Bond." Learn the meaning of words like: federation, parliament, constitution, compulsory, sovereign, electoral, democracy, referendum. When you see these words in test questions, you will know exactly what they mean.
4. Use Flashcards with Visual Cues
Flashcards work well for visual learners and non-English speakers. Write the English term on one side and a picture or native-language translation on the other. Apps like Anki (free) let you build digital flashcard decks you can study on your phone.
5. Watch Short Videos on Australian Civics
YouTube has many short videos explaining Australian government, history, and values — some in languages other than English. Watching a 5-minute video on how Australia's Parliament works is often faster to understand than reading a page of text in a second language.
6. Study with a Language Partner
Find a study partner — ideally someone who speaks both your language and English fluently. Studying together lets you clarify confusing concepts immediately. Many community organisations, libraries, and settlement services offer citizenship study groups.
7. Take Timed Practice Tests Regularly
The best preparation for the real test is doing practice tests. Our practice tests use the same 20-question, multiple-choice format as the real Australian Citizenship Test. Taking practice tests helps you get comfortable with the English question style before your appointment. Aim for at least 10 full practice runs before test day.
Practice Makes Perfect
Take our 385+ question practice bank to build confidence before your real test.
Start Free Practice TestWhat to Expect on Test Day
The Australian Citizenship Test is conducted at an approved test centre on a computer. Here is what happens:
- You arrive at the test centre with your identity documents as specified in your appointment letter.
- A staff member checks your identity and confirms your appointment.
- You sit at a computer and answer 20 multiple-choice questions. You have 45 minutes, though most people finish in 20-30 minutes.
- Results appear immediately on screen after you submit. You will know right away if you passed.
The test interface is simple — you click on your chosen answer. There is no typing required. According to the Department of Home Affairs, you can also flag questions to review before submitting.
English Assistance on Test Day
You cannot bring a dictionary or translator into the test room. The test must be completed independently. However, if you have a significant communication difficulty, the Department of Home Affairs may be able to make reasonable adjustments — contact them before your appointment to discuss your needs.
Some test centres allow applicants who are blind or have a vision impairment to have the questions read aloud. This must be arranged in advance through ImmiAccount.
Want more guidance on preparing? Visit our study guide for a structured breakdown of every topic in "Our Common Bond."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Australian Citizenship Test available in other languages?
No. The Australian Citizenship Test is currently only available in English. The Department of Home Affairs does not offer the test in other languages. However, study resources and fact sheets are available in multiple languages to help you prepare.
What if I do not understand a question on the test?
Read the question carefully and use the process of elimination to narrow down your choices. If you are unsure, flag the question and come back to it. You have 45 minutes for 20 questions — use the full time available. Never leave a question blank; an educated guess is better than no answer.
Can I ask the test centre staff to explain a question?
No. Test centre staff cannot assist with test questions. They can only help with technical issues (e.g., if your computer freezes). This is why thorough preparation before the test is so important.
How many times can I retake the test if I fail?
There is no limit on retakes, and there is no additional fee to retake the test. Your citizenship application remains active. Simply book a new test date through ImmiAccount and use the time to study the areas where you struggled.
Do I need to speak English at the citizenship ceremony?
Yes — at the citizenship ceremony you will make the Australian Citizenship Pledge, which is spoken aloud in English. You can practise this in advance. The pledge is short (around 50 words) and is also printed on a card that you read from during the ceremony.