Things to do on the day of your Australian citizenship test
Test day doesn't need to be stressful if you're prepared and you know what to bring. Here's a complete guide to what to do before you leave home, at the test centre, and after you sit the test.
The official source for test requirements is the Department of Home Affairs citizenship test page. Your appointment letter and ImmiAccount messages are the source of truth for your specific appointment.
Before you leave home
Pack these — don't leave without them
Original photo ID. You must bring a physical, original identity document — your passport, driver's licence, or proof of age card. Photocopies are not accepted. Images on your phone are not accepted. If you arrive without a valid photo ID, you may not be able to sit the test.
Your appointment letter. This confirms your booking and is used at check-in. Print it or have it clearly accessible.
Any additional documents requested in your appointment communications. Check your ImmiAccount inbox and your appointment letter to confirm there's nothing else expected.
Logistics
- Check how long it takes to get to the test centre and plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early
- Check public transport timetables or parking options the night before — don't leave this to the morning
- If you've never been to the building, look it up on a map. Some government offices have multiple entrances or specific visitor entry points
- Switch your phone to silent before entering the testing area
The night before
Don't cram. A light review of the Australian values section and your notes is enough. Get a proper night's sleep — rest does more for your performance than last-minute reading.
At the test centre
Check-in and identity verification
When you arrive, staff will check your photo ID and appointment letter to confirm your identity. Depending on the centre, they may also take your photo. This process takes a few minutes.
Have your documents out and ready when you approach the check-in desk. Fumbling through a bag when there's a queue behind you adds unnecessary stress.
What you're allowed in the testing area
- You are not permitted to bring your phone, notes, or the Our Common Bond booklet into the testing area
- Personal items will typically be stored or asked to be left outside the testing area
What the testing area is like
You'll be directed to a computer terminal. The test is computer-based — you read each question on screen and click your answer. There's no writing. The environment is usually quiet, with other applicants sitting nearby.
During the test
How the test works
The test is 20 multiple-choice questions with a 45-minute time limit. You read each question on screen and select your answer by clicking.
To pass:
- At least 15 correct answers (75%)
- All five Australian values questions correct — regardless of your overall score
See how the Australian citizenship test is scored for the full breakdown.
How to approach each question
- Read each question carefully before clicking — some questions use similar wording for different concepts
- Answer every question — there's no penalty for a wrong answer, and leaving one blank guarantees no points for it
- Don't rush — 45 minutes for 20 questions gives you over 2 minutes per question. Use the time
If you're unsure about a question, make your best choice and move on. You can often eliminate clearly wrong answers and narrow it down.
Watch-outs on test day
- Don't spend too long on one question — if you're stuck, choose your best answer and keep moving
- Values scenario questions require thinking about which response upholds Australian values — pick the response that reflects the principle, not just the one that sounds reasonable
- Read all four options before selecting — the difference between the correct answer and a distractor is sometimes subtle
After the test
Your result
In most cases, your result is provided on the day — either displayed on screen immediately after you finish or communicated by staff at the venue.
If you pass: Your application continues to the final assessment stage. The Department will contact you through ImmiAccount when a decision is made on your application, and then with a ceremony invitation.
For the next steps after a pass, see what to do after passing the Australian citizenship test.
If you don't pass: You'll be given information about your next steps. Your application stays active — you don't need to reapply. See what happens if you fail the citizenship test for what to expect.
Test day checklist
Before leaving home:
- Original photo ID packed
- Appointment letter printed or accessible
- Any additional requested documents packed
- Journey to test centre planned; departure time confirmed
- Phone on silent (to remember to switch off before entering testing area)
At the test centre:
- Arrived 15–20 minutes early
- Check-in completed with ID and appointment letter
- Identity verified by staff
During the test:
- Read each question fully before selecting an answer
- Answered every question (no blanks)
- Didn't rush — stayed calm and methodical
Related guides
- How the Australian citizenship test is scored
- Australian values questions explained
- What to expect at your citizenship appointment
- What happens if you fail the citizenship test
- How to book a date for your citizenship test
- Practice Test 1
Check your appointment letter and ImmiAccount for any specific instructions from the Department.