Can you pass the German citizenship test?

To become eligible for German citizenship, you will need to take the naturalisation test.

By passing the test you can prove that you have the knowledge of the legal and social system and living conditions in Germany that you need in order to be naturalised in Germany.

You can apply at the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees’ test centres.


What does the test comprise of?
The test consists of 33 questions including three questions which apply only to the German state where you live. You have 60 minutes to answer the questions, and must select the correct answer to each question from four possible answers.

You need to correctly answer at least 17 questions correctly to pass.

What to expect
30 questions relate to the subject areas of “Living in a democracy”, “History and responsibility” and “People and society”.

Three test questions will be asked about the Federal Land in which you are registered as having your first place of residence.

Do you need to take the test?
Most people who want to apply for German citizenship will need t take the test.

These are the exceptions

• You are under the age of 16
• You have acquired a German school-leaving qualification.
• You graduated from a German higher education institution in law or social, political or administrative sciences.
• You cannot fulfil the requirements because of a physical, psychological or mental illness or disability or on account of your age.

How much does it cost?
It costs €25 to take the naturalisation test. The fee to apply for German citizenship is different.

Prepare for the test
You can take a sample test on the official German government website, here. Some Federal States offer courses to help you prepare for the naturalisation test.

There is no limit to the number of times you can take the naturalisation test.