How to Book Your Canadian Citizenship Test: Scheduling, Fees & Location Guide (2026)

How the Citizenship Test Scheduling Process Works

Unlike many exams, you do not book the Canadian citizenship test yourself. Here is how the process works from start to finish:

Step 1: Submit Your Citizenship Application

You submit your application through the IRCC online portal (or by mail in some cases). This includes: - Completing the application form - Paying the $630 fee ($530 processing + $100 right of citizenship) - Submitting supporting documents - Providing biometric information if required

Step 2: IRCC Processes Your Application

After submission, IRCC processes your application. This includes: - Reviewing your documents - Conducting background and security checks - Verifying your physical presence in Canada - Confirming your language ability

This stage typically takes 6–12 months.

Step 3: IRCC Sends You a Test Notice

Once your application is ready for the test stage, IRCC sends you a notice that includes: - The date and time of your test - The location (testing centre address or online test details) - What to bring (documents and identification) - Special instructions if applicable

You receive this notice through your IRCC online account and/or by mail.

Step 4: Take the Test

On the assigned date, you go to the testing centre (or log in for an online test) and complete the 20-question, 30-minute exam.

Citizenship Application Fees

Here is a breakdown of all costs associated with the citizenship process:

Important notes about fees: - The processing fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused - The right of citizenship fee is only charged when your application is approved - The test is included — there is no separate test fee - Retakes are free — if you fail the first test, the retake costs nothing

Testing Centre Locations

IRCC operates testing centres across Canada. Major cities have dedicated citizenship testing facilities, while smaller communities may use shared government offices or community centres.

Major Testing Centres

Testing centres are located in major cities including: - Toronto, Ottawa, and other Ontario cities - Montreal and Quebec City - Vancouver, Victoria, and other BC cities - Calgary and Edmonton - Winnipeg - Halifax - And many other cities and towns across Canada

Your assigned testing centre will be near your home address. If you live in a rural area, you may need to travel to the nearest city.

How to Reschedule Your Test

If you cannot attend your scheduled test, here is what to do:

Valid Reasons to Reschedule

• Medical emergency (bring documentation)
• Work conflict (provide evidence)
• Travel commitment (especially if booked before receiving the notice)
• Family emergency
• Other urgent circumstances

How to Request a Reschedule

1. Contact IRCC as soon as possible — Do not wait until test day
2. Use the IRCC web form on the Government of Canada website
3. Or call the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100
4. Explain your reason and request a new date
5. IRCC will send you a new test notice

What Happens If You Miss Your Test Without Notice

If you simply do not show up: - IRCC may reschedule you, but processing may be delayed - Your application could be considered abandoned if you do not respond to follow-up requests - Always inform IRCC if you cannot attend

Typical Timeline from Application to Test

Here is what to expect at each stage:

Total timeline from application to citizenship: Approximately 12 months on average.

Tracking Your Application

Online Account

Log into your IRCC account regularly to check your status. The account shows: - Application received confirmation - Current processing stage - Upcoming appointments - Test results - Oath ceremony scheduling

Status Updates

IRCC sends updates to your account as your application progresses. Make sure your email and account settings allow notifications.

Preparing While You Wait

The 6–12 month wait between application and test is your preparation window. Use this time wisely:

Start Early

Begin studying the Discover Canada guide as soon as you submit your application. This gives you months of preparation time.

Gradual Study Plan

• Months 1–3: Read Discover Canada once, become familiar with the topics
• Months 4–6: Start practice questions, identify weak areas
• Months 7–9: Intensive practice, mock tests
• When you get your notice: Final review and confidence-building

Use Study Tools

CitizenApp provides 500+ practice questions across all 10 Discover Canada topics, mock test simulations, and progress tracking — so you can study efficiently and be ready whenever IRCC schedules your test.

Frequently Asked About Fees

Is the test fee refundable if I fail?

There is no separate test fee — it is included in the $630 application fee. The processing fee ($530) is non-refundable regardless of outcome.

Do I pay again for a retake?

No. Your first retake is free. You only need to pay again if your entire application is refused and you need to submit a new one.

Is there a fee for rescheduling?

No. There is no fee for rescheduling your test, but you should provide a valid reason and contact IRCC promptly.

Start Preparing Today

Do not wait for your test notice to start studying. The earlier you begin, the more prepared and confident you will be on test day.

CitizenApp is your complete preparation tool — 500+ questions, mock tests, AI study tools, and topic-by-topic progress tracking. Private tutors charge $50–100/hour. CitizenApp starts at $9.99/month.