What Happens If You Fail the Canadian Citizenship Test? Retake Process & Rules

Understanding the Canadian Citizenship Retake Policy

Scoring below the required 15 out of 20 (75%) mark on your first citizenship exam can feel discouraging, but it does not mean your application is rejected. IRCC has a structured policy to give candidates another chance.

1. The Automatic Retest Invitation

If you fail your first attempt, IRCC automatically invites you to write a second test (retest). Key facts about the retest include:

• Timing: You typically receive a new invitation letter within 4 to 8 weeks.
• Cost: There is zero additional fee to write a retest. Your original processing fee covers it.
• Format: The retest follows the exact same 20-question, 45-minute format based on Discover Canada.

2. What Happens If You Do Not Pass the Retest?

If you do not achieve 15/20 on your second attempt, your file is referred to a Citizenship Hearing with a Citizenship Judge or citizenship official.

• The hearing is an oral assessment lasting 30 to 60 minutes.
• The official will ask questions directly from the Discover Canada study guide to evaluate your knowledge of Canada.
• The official will also assess your ability to communicate in English or French at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4.

3. Why Most Candidates Fail and How to Avoid It

1. Rushing Through Questions: 45 minutes gives you more than 2 minutes per question. Read every choice before clicking.
2. Relying on Unverified Forums: Many social media study banks have outdated questions referencing former prime ministers or outdated monarch titles.
3. Skipping Regional Geography: Every test version contains 1 to 3 questions about provinces, capitals, or natural features.

4. Preparation Strategy for Your Retest

Take full advantage of the weeks before your retest by taking simulated exams under timed conditions. Review explanations for every question you miss and cross-reference the corresponding page in the official Discover Canada booklet.