What Happens If You Fail the Canadian Citizenship Test?

By Sarah Chen·10 min read·Updated 2026-05-15

Failed the citizenship test? Here's what happens next: retake options, hearing process, timelines, and tips for passing the second time.

Failing the citizenship test doesn't mean your dream of becoming Canadian is over. About 10–13% of test-takers don't pass on their first try, and the process has built-in second chances.

What Happens Immediately After Failing

You won't find out your exact score, but the IRCC officer will tell you whether you passed or failed. If you failed:

  • You'll receive a letter from IRCC within a few weeks
  • The letter will tell you that you're being scheduled for a second attempt
  • You'll get a new test date (usually within 4–8 weeks)

    • The Second Test

    Your second test is the same format: 20 questions, 30 minutes, 75% to pass. The questions will be different, but they'll come from the same material (Discover Canada).

    What If You Fail the Second Test?

    If you don't pass the second test, IRCC will schedule a hearing with a citizenship judge. The judge will:

  • Ask you questions about Canada to assess your knowledge
  • Evaluate whether you meet the knowledge requirement
  • Make a decision about your application

    • This isn't as scary as it sounds. Citizenship judges are understanding and want to help you succeed.

    How to Pass the Second Time

    Most people who fail the first test simply didn't prepare enough. Here's how to make sure you pass the retake:

  • Identify your weak areas: Think about which questions you struggled with
  • Re-read Discover Canada: Focus especially on history and government
  • Take practice tests daily: Use our [free tests](/free-tests) to build confidence
  • Give yourself enough time: Use the weeks before your retake productively

    • Does Failing Affect Your Application?

    Failing the test doesn't disqualify you from citizenship. It's expected that some people need a second attempt. As long as you eventually pass (through the test or hearing), your application continues.

    Don't Give Up

    Thousands of people become Canadian citizens after failing their first test. It's a setback, not a stop sign.

    Start preparing for your retake right now.

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