Canadian citizenship test passing score: 15 out of 20
You need 15 correct answers out of 20 to pass the official citizenship knowledge test. Here is how to interpret your score and plan your next step.
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Official test format
Citizenship test at a glance
- Questions
- 20
- Time allowed
- 45 minutes
- Passing score
- 15 / 20Correct answers
- Format
- Multiple choiceIncludes true/false
- Official guide
- Discover Canada
How many questions can you get wrong?
You can get up to five answers wrong and still reach 15/20 (75%). Six wrong answers means 14/20 (70%), below the passing threshold.
| Correct answers | Percentage | Meets threshold? |
|---|---|---|
| 14/20 | 70% | No |
| 15/20 | 75% | Yes |
| 16/20 | 80% | Yes |
| 20/20 | 100% | Yes |
These examples explain the calculation; IRCC confirms your official result.
Separate knowledge from correct guesses
Include correct answers you were unsure about in your review. Label each difficulty: unfamiliar vocabulary, a forgotten fact or reading too quickly. Reread the corresponding topic before another mock test. Your practice average does not predict your official result.
Calculate your result
Each correct answer counts toward your total. Fifteen out of 20 is 75%; 16 is 80%; 17 is 85%; 18 is 90%; 19 is 95%; and 20 is 100%. Fourteen correct answers is 70%, which is below the passing threshold.
A higher score does not replace other requirements
A score of 20/20 and a score of 15/20 both meet the knowledge-test threshold. Your application still has to satisfy the other citizenship requirements. A high score does not guarantee faster processing or a particular ceremony date.
Online results are initially unofficial
Print or email the results page using its buttons after submitting your online test; you cannot sign in later to view it again. IRCC reviews the online result before it becomes official. In-person and Microsoft Teams tests give an official score immediately. Our practice scores are separate and are not sent to IRCC.
If you score below 15
Check the attempts and time remaining in your invitation. You have up to three attempts within your 30-day test period. After three unsuccessful attempts, IRCC invites you to a hearing. If you fail that hearing, IRCC refuses the application; reapplying requires paying the fees again.
Use practice scores to choose what to study
List your incorrect answers by topic, reread the relevant guide sections and try fresh questions. Do not judge readiness from one familiar question set. The official exam allows 45 minutes; practise pacing as well as recall.
Put your reading into practice
Start with the free exam. If you want more practice, Premium is $14.99 CAD once. We are an independent service; read the official guide and our purchase terms.
PassCitizenshipTest.ca is an independent study and practice tool. It is not affiliated with IRCC or the Government of Canada. The official study guide is Discover Canada, available free from the Government of Canada. Read the official guide.