Civics Study Guide
Comprehensive notes on all 128 USCIS civics topics — everything you need to know to pass.
3 Main Categories 100 Official Questions Covered Key Terms Glossary
American Government — 57 Questions
This is the largest section of the civics test. It covers the Constitution, the three branches of government, checks and balances, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the federal system.
The Constitution is the highest law in the United States. It was written in 1787 and went into effect in 1789. It establishes the structure of the federal government and protects the basic rights of Americans.
The Constitution has 27 amendments. The first 10 amendments are called the Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791. They protect freedoms such as speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to bear arms.
Key Amendments to Know
- • 1st: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, petition
- • 13th: Abolished slavery (1865)
- • 14th: Citizenship rights, equal protection
- • 15th: Right to vote regardless of race
- • 19th: Women's right to vote (1920)
- • 26th: Voting age lowered to 18