Questions to the new naturalization test are about to be released, giving citizenship applicants one year to study before the exam is revised in October 2008.

The 100 questions and answers for the civics component of the new naturalization test have been reworked after more than 6,000 citizenship applicants from around the nation took a pilot version of the exam. The 100 questions on the new naturalization test are the end result, after the USCIS, a panel of history and government scholars, and English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers reviewed responses to the pilot.

The new naturalization test is designed to strengthen assimilation of immigrants by emphasizing the foundations of American democracy, history, and citizenship rights and responsibilities. It also aims to promote a stronger sense of patriotism among applicants.

After analyzing pilot results, USCIS refined the exam, eliminating or clarifying questions. The range of acceptable answers has also increased, so that applicants can learn more about topics and select from a wider range of accurate responses. What the heck does that mean exactly?

Well, for instance, one question asks: "What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?" This could have a variety of correct responses, including freedom of "speech," "religion," "assembly," "the press," and, to "petition the government."

The pilot questions were given to real citizenship applicants during their interviews in 10 districts nationwide: Albany, NY; Boston, MA; Charleston, SC; Denver, CO; El Paso, TX; Kansas City, MO; Miami, FL; San Antonio, TX; Tucson, AZ; and Yakima, WA. Of all volunteers who took the pilot test, 92.4 passed the entire test, 93.7 passed the civics section, 99.8 percent, the reading component, and 99 percent passed the writing segment.