There are both similarities and differences between the Citizenship Test and the Social Studies Test. It is not always easy to understand which sample to take.
Therefore, we go through both similarities and differences, so that you can become a little wiser. At the very bottom, we take a closer look at who has to take the various tests.
Here is the overview
1. Syllabus
The Citizenship Test and the Test in Social Studies have almost the same syllabus. This means that you need the same knowledge of Norwegian history, school system, politics, and geography, in both tests, but in the Test in Social Studies you may find that the questions are a little more detailed.
When it comes to curriculum, it is important to say that it not only helps to memorize years and events; you must also be able to apply the knowledge in a context.
For example, it is good to know that Norway became involved in World War II in 1940 (and it is no problem to cram), but if you are asked about which historical event has the 70th anniversary in 2025, then you must apply the knowledge you have, to arrive at the correct answer.
Applying knowledge is a good way to learn. That is exactly what we try to be good at. And that is why many people choose to learn the curriculum from us before they take the test. Check [S|29|here for the Citizenship Test], or [S|30|here for the Test in Social Studies].
2. The questions
In both tests, you get multiple-choice questions. One question, three options. Two of the options are wrong and you must select the option that is correct.
At the Citizenship Test, you get 32 questions, where you must answer at least 24 questions correctly. This means that you must answer at least 75% of the questions correctly. When you take [S|29|our test-yourself], we, therefore, recommend that you answer 90% correctly before you take the Citizenship Test.
3. The language
An important difference between the Citizenship Test and the Test in Social Studies is the language: The questions are formulated a little easier on the Citizenship Test. On the Social Studies test, on the other hand, you must be prepared for a slightly less adapted language.
And yes, both tests can be held in both Nynorsk and Bokmål, but the Test in Social Studies can also be taken in [S|30| English] or another language.
However, if you are going to use the Test in Social Studies to get citizenship in Norway, then the test must be taken in Norwegian.
Who should take which test?
It is the UDI that decides who will take the Citizenship Test, and who will take the Social Studies Test. These include:
- Which country do you come from
- If you have had a residence permit before
- If you have previously been a Norwegian citizen
- If you have had a residence card for family members of EU / EEA citizens
UDI has created a guide where you can fill in the information above. However, it is the decision of the UDI that decides which sample you must take.
Remember that many must also pass the Norwegian test.
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