(Des Moines) Iowa students may soon need to pass a U.S. citizenship test in order to graduate from high school. Senate File 369, which passed with a vote of 38-7, would require high school students to take and successfully complete the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services civics test.
According to the proposal, students in grades nine through twelve must achieve a score of at least 60% on the latest version of the multiple-choice test to receive their high school diploma or equivalency certificate. Those who do not pass will be allowed to retake the exam as many times as necessary until they succeed.
Governor Kim Reynolds proposed this requirement during her January Condition of the State address to lawmakers.
Proponents of the bill argue that it would enhance public understanding of civics and the workings of the U.S. government. Conversely, opponents contend that a standardized test is not the best method to ensure a thorough comprehension of U.S. civics.
If approved, Iowa would be the 17th state to implement this law. Should the bill be signed into law, it would be effective starting with the 2026-2027 school year.
