United States · Citizenship test

How much does the US citizenship test cost?

There’s no separate fee for the test. You pay when you file Form N-400, the citizenship application, and the test is part of the interview that follows. As of October 2026 the fee is $710 if you file online or $760 on paper. Lower fees are possible on paper if your income qualifies.

N-400 fees as of October 2026

How you fileFee
Online$710
On paper$760
Reduced fee (paper only)$380
Fee waiver with Form I-912 (paper only)$0
Military service, under INA 328 or 329$0

These numbers come from the USCIS fee schedule, Form G-1055. Check it again on the day you file, because fees change.

Who can pay less?

The reduced fee of $380 is for people whose household income is no more than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You’ll need to send proof of your income with the application.

If you can’t pay at all, you can ask for a fee waiver with Form I-912, or with a written request and supporting documents.

One catch: you can’t file online if you want the reduced fee or a waiver. You have to file on paper.

A fee change has been proposed

On June 23, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security proposed new N-400 fees. The proposal would also end the reduced fee and fee waivers. It’s a proposal, not a final rule. As of October 2026, the fees above still apply.

If you’re ready to apply, keep an eye on the USCIS fee schedule. A final rule would come with a start date.

Studying costs nothing

Everything you need to study is free from USCIS: the question list, the study guide and the reading and writing word lists. Apps and classes are optional. Many good ones are free too.

Sources: USCIS and 2 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.