What's New in Canadian Citizenship Test

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Alert: The Canadian government started a new format of the citizenship test on March 15, 2010. Our practice questions have already been modified according to the new study guide "Discover Canada".
The new study guide is called "Discover Canada". Compared with the old study book "A Look at Canada", it has more comprehensive content.

Changes At A Glance:


Here we have listed the changes in the new book that you should be aware of:
  • More in-depth coverage of the Canadian history.
    It has a section of more than ten pages of the Canadian history and 4 pages of modern Canada. It describes the Aboriginal peoples, British and French as the founding people of Canada.
  • Canada's role in two world wars is detailed. Many historic people are introduced so you may have more names to remember before sitting the test.
  • Historic Wrongdoings of the Canadian Government
    It is interesting to see that the study guide admits the historic wrongdoings of the Canadian government, such as the "Head Tax", wartime wrongs inflicted on Japanese and education of Aboriginal children.
  • Sovereign The concept of Sovereign is emphasized in the new book. A bill must be finally approved by 'royal assent'.
  • Wording Changes: There are wording changes about the Canadian government, though the concepts are mainly the same. In the old book, it states Canada's government has a system of parliamentary government. It is now in the new book as "a federal state, a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy."
  • Latest Change in Legislation: The section about federal election is mostly unchanged except for the election cycle. In 2007, new laws passed to force a general election at least every 4 years and has a fixed date. The new book reflects this latest change in legislation.


  • Justice System: Justice System is the new content not seen in the old book, so you must know about it.
  • Canada Regions: Canada Regions are now in more details. The new book covers each province/territory separately. Therefore, you must know at least the region you are in.
  • Canadian Symbols: Canadian symbols now include "Coat of Arm and Motto", honours to Canadians, sports and holidays.
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 Citizenship Test Tips

What language should my supporting documents be in? ..... Unless CIC tells you otherwise, all supporting documents must be in English or French.
If it is not in English or French, you must send it with:
- the English or French translation and
- an affidavit from the person who completed the translation and
- a certified photocopy of the original document