The English writing test is the third component of the naturalization test. Like the reading test, it is easier than most applicants fear: the officer dictates up to three simple sentences, and you need to write only one correctly. “Correctly” means the sentence is legible and the meaning is clear — minor spelling errors are allowed. USCIS provides the pen and paper. You do not type.

How the Writing Test Works

• The officer reads a sentence aloud. You write it on paper.
• If you write it correctly, you pass. Done.
• If you make too many errors, the officer gives you a second sentence.
• Then a third if needed.
• You must write at least 1 of 3 correctly.
• Small spelling errors, capitalization slips, and missing periods are usually forgiven.

The USCIS Writing Vocabulary

Every word on the writing test comes from this published list. If you can spell these words and write them legibly, you can pass.

People

• Adams, Lincoln, Washington

Civics

• American Indians, capital, citizens, Civil War, Congress, Father of Our Country, flag, free, freedom of speech, President, right, Senators, state/states, White House

Places

• Alaska, California, Canada, Delaware, Mexico, New York City, United States, Washington, Washington DC

Months

• February, May, June, July, September, October, November

Holidays

• Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving

Verbs

• can, come, elect, have/has, is/was/be, lives/lived, meets, pay, vote, want

Other

• blue, dollar bill, fifty/50, first, largest, most, north, one, one hundred/100, people, red, second, south, taxes, white

Practice Sentences (Dictate to Yourself)

Have a family member read these sentences aloud one at a time. Write each on paper with a pen. Then compare. Practice until you can write each one correctly on the first try.

Writing Test Tips

Common Writing Errors That Do NOT Fail You

• Minor spelling errors that do not change the meaning (“Febuary” vs “February” is usually OK)
• Missing a period
• Forgetting to capitalize the first letter
• Small grammar errors

Errors That DO Fail You

• Writing a completely different sentence
• Missing a key word that changes the meaning
• Writing in your native language instead of English
• Illegible handwriting

Final Word

The writing test rewards preparation. Dictate yourself 5 sentences a day for 3 weeks, and by the time you walk into your USCIS interview, the dictation step will feel routine. The sentences are short, the vocabulary is published, and you only need to write one correctly. You can do this.