Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada is now piloting online citizenship exams for those whose tests were cancelled due to the pandemic and those who are on the waiting list. If you are one of these clients, you will be sent an email inviting you to the test. No need to email IRCC. You will have the option to accept it or wait until in-person services resume if you don’t want to take the online exam.

Some details about the online test:

1. Just like the in-person version, it will have 20 items that clients have to answer within 30 minutes. The 20 questions will be either multiple choice or true or false.
2. They will need to answer 15 items correctly to pass it.
3. There will be additional steps to confirm the test-taker’s identity. Photos will be taken of their ID, face, and static photos during the exam. They must also be seen taking the test themselves via webcam.
4. They can take it anytime within 21 days.
5. Applicants have to be physically present in Canada when taking the citizenship test.

Since this is the pilot run, only a limited number of clients will be invited. After IRCC has confirmed the stability of the online testing platform, they will begin to invite more clients to take the test.

If you’ve been invited and have opted to take it, here are a few pointers to ensure your success:

1. Be clear about instructions

   Read the emailed invitation thoroughly. It will contain instructions to do before, during, and after the citizenship knowledge test. Also read the online citizenship test tutorial before taking the exam.

   You will need to prepare a valid identification (ID) with your photo or signature on it. It can be your PR Card (even if it’s expired), driver’s licence, or your health card. Have a copy of your Application Number and your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) on hand. You can see these numbers on your email invitation.

2. Prepare your device

   You will need:

   • A computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam. You can’t use a smartphone.
   • A reliable Internet connection.
   • Chrome or Safari web browser. You cannot use Chrome on an iPad.
   • A room/area with good lighting.

   Test your device before the exam. Make sure that you have the right device type and web browser as described above. Turn off other apps and websites on your browser while taking the exam so you won’t be distracted. Some apps or software may have automatic notices that can pop-up and affect your concentration or annoy you. Make sure that your computer is charged or else have an electrical plug nearby.

   Don’t panic when technical problems happen. Inform the examiner if it’s a major glitch. It may be a good idea to have a back-up device nearby to anticipate technical problems.

3. Set up in a quiet and well-lighted place

   It is a requirement for you to be in a room with good lighting so that the IRCC examiner can see you. It will be to your advantage anyway to stay in a well-lighted and quiet room so that you can focus on the exam. Remove all clutter so you won’t be distracted.

   If you live in a dorm or apartment where there are other people or pets that may distract you, find a quiet corner or a room where you can close the door. Choose a good time to take the exam (remember you have 21 days to decide the date). Inform your housemates of the date and time so you’ll be less likely to be interrupted. Goodluck!

 
Source: Online Citizenship Test, IRCC.