The citizenship test is available in English or French, and you choose the language that suits you. If you plan to take it in French, this page explains how to practise in French on CitizenNow and what to check before test day. For the language choice itself, see English or French: which language for your test?
What is the same in both languages
The test has the same 20 questions, the same 45-minute limit and the same pass mark of 15 correct, whichever language you choose. It is based on the study guide Discover Canada, which is published in both languages. The French edition is titled Découvrir le Canada.
Practise in French on this site
All 600 questions on CitizenNow are available in French. To practise in French:
- Open the French version of the site, where the questions appear in French.
- Start any practice test and answer in French.
- Read the explanation after each answer. It names the chapter in Découvrir le Canada, so you can check the source.
Learn the French terms for key facts
Many questions use names and terms you may not know in French, such as the names of institutions, provinces and historical events. Read the questions in French for a few sessions, and keep a short list of terms you mix up. If you are studying in English and want to check a term, the key English words for the test page is useful.
Check the language on your invitation
Your invitation tells you how to choose the test language. Choose once, and make sure the test you start is in the language you practised. Switching language partway through is not a way to avoid a question you do not know.
Is French practice enough?
Yes, if you understand the questions in French as well as you would in English. If you are unsure, practise in both languages: answer in French, then reread the same question in English. You should reach the same answer each time.
Ready to practise in French? Open Practice test 1 in French and answer all 20 questions with a timer.
This guide is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Rules and fees can change — always confirm on the official IRCC website before you apply or pay.