How the 2026 Canadian Citizenship Test Works
Format, topics, and how to prepare
Independent study resource — not affiliated with IRCC or the Government of Canada. For official and up-to-date information, visit canada.ca.
Test Format
Our mock exam uses 20 multiple-choice questions with a 45-minute time limit, covering topics from the Discover Canada study guide.
According to publicly available IRCC information, the test is generally offered in English or French, Canada's two official languages. The language you choose should match the language in which you feel most confident, as all questions and answer options will be presented in that language.
Questions cover topics from Discover Canada, the official study guide. The questions cover six broad categories: Canadian history, how government works, rights and responsibilities, geography, the economy, and Canadian symbols. Each question presents four answer options, and only one is correct.
Our mock exam uses the same format: 20 questions, 45 minutes, multiple choice. Practicing under timed conditions helps you manage your time and build confidence.
Passing Score
Our mock exams use a 75% pass threshold (15 out of 20 correct). This matches the threshold described in publicly available IRCC information.
Our mock exams use the same 75% threshold, so you can gauge your preparation before test day.
The questions can cover specific details. You might be asked about a particular date in Canadian history, the responsibilities of a specific level of government, or the meaning of a national symbol. Thorough preparation is the key to meeting this threshold comfortably.
What Topics Are Covered
The citizenship test covers six main categories, covering topics from the Discover Canada study guide. Here is what each category includes:
- History — Confederation, Indigenous peoples, key historical events, wars, and immigration waves that shaped modern Canada.
- Government — How federal, provincial, and municipal governments work, the role of Parliament, elections, the Constitution, and the responsibilities of the Prime Minister and Governor General.
- Rights & Responsibilities — The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the right to vote, jury duty, equality, and the rule of law.
- Geography — Provinces and territories, their capitals, natural resources, regional characteristics, and climate.
- Economy — Major industries, international trade, natural resources, economic regions, and Canada's role in the global economy.
- Canadian Symbols — The flag, the national anthem, the maple leaf, the beaver, the RCMP, national holidays, and other emblems of Canadian identity.
You can practice each category individually using our category-based practice mode. This is an effective way to focus on the areas where you feel less confident. For a complete breakdown of what to study in each category, see our What to Study guide.
Why Thorough Preparation Matters
Thorough preparation helps you feel confident on test day.
Use our mock exam to practice and identify your weak areas. For study strategies, check out our Study Tips page.
Start Preparing Now
800 practice questions covering topics from the Discover Canada study guide. Try a mock exam or study by category.