FRKnow what to expect.
The essentials and a practical study plan. Checked against IRCC guidance on 1 October 2026.
20 questions · 45 minutes
- The test covers rights, responsibilities, history, geography, the economy, laws and government.
- Multiple-choice and true-or-false questions. You need 15 out of 20 to pass.
- The official test is in English or French. You can switch between English and French using the language link.
- Applicants aged 18–54 on the date they sign their application generally need to take the test.
- Follow your IRCC invitation for your test access period and instructions.
Prepare your space
- Have your PR card or another accepted valid photo ID with your signature ready.
- Use a computer, laptop or supported tablet with a webcam, reliable internet and good lighting.
- Check supported devices and browsers on the IRCC website. A mobile phone is not accepted.
- Work alone, without study materials. Close other programs and turn off your VPN.
- The timer cannot be paused. Your answers are submitted automatically after 45 minutes.
The guide and the present day
Your copy of the guide mentions Queen Elizabeth II. At the time of our check, the head of state is King Charles III, and the head of government is Mark Carney. These are different roles.
Before your test, check the current governor general, your provincial premier and your member of Parliament. Officeholders and parliamentary representation can change.
Find your MPA two-week study rhythm
A suggested plan, not a requirementBuild a foundation
Read 2–3 chapter summaries a day, then the corresponding sections of the guide. Try 10 new questions.
See the bigger picture
Focus on history, government and regions. Use date flashcards and revisit mistakes the next day.
Find your gaps
Alternate New + missed with random questions. Take your first practice test without hints.
Build consistency
Try several different tests, aiming for 18–20/20. Between tests, revisit your weaker topics.
Make it stick
- Recall before revealing. Describe the event or fact in your own words.
- Understand your mistake. Why is the correct answer right? How does it differ from your choice?
- Space out your practice. Today, tomorrow and a few days later is a useful starting rhythm.
- Learn the key terms. Head of state, responsible government, riding, secret ballot.
- Go beyond the question bank. Read all of Discover Canada, including captions and sidebars.