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Civic exam: common mistakes to avoid
Managing your time, reading the situational questions, not neglecting a topic… The most common civic-exam mistakes, and how to avoid them.
Residence permit & naturalisation
Pass the French civic exam with confidence
From 1 January 2026, passing the civic exam is required to obtain a multi-year residence card, a resident card or French nationality. Our courses prepare you on the history, values and institutions of the Republic.
- Experienced teachers
- In person
- A Centre Zenith service
Which procedure are you preparing for?
The civic exam applies to three procedures. See what applies to yours.
Preparation in 3 steps
A simple, effective method to approach the exam with peace of mind.
1
Choose your formula
Fast-track (24 h) or complete (46 h), depending on how independent you are. Sign up in a few minutes.
2
Follow the course
Group classes on the five exam modules, in person, at 13 hours per week, with mock exams.
3
Take the exam
You sit the official exam at an approved centre (CCI or FEI) — we guide you there for free.
Understanding the civic exam
All articles
Comprendre l'examen
Civic exam or language test (DELF, TCF): what's the difference?
The civic exam is not a language test. We explain the difference from French certifications (DELF, TCF, DCL), and why both may be required.
Comprendre l'examen
Exam day: what the civic exam is like
On a computer, in 45 minutes, at an approved centre: here's how the civic exam actually unfolds, and the lifelong certificate you receive.
Ready to test your knowledge?
Practise for free: quizzes by topic and a timed mock exam, as many times as you like.
