Whether you’re preparing for your citizenship exam or want to support an aspiring American, the Citizen Guide program connects people during the final meaningful steps to U.S. citizenship.
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Citizen Guides are a community of virtual, nationwide volunteers who support and cheer on aspiring Americans preparing for the U.S. citizenship exam during the final steps in their American journey. No experience is needed, just a willingness to be a steady supporter for a neighbor. We'll provide the training. You'll provide the life-changing encouragement.
On a long, hard road, one person can make all the difference.
We make it simple. Here's how it works: meeting virtually about an hour a week, for around 10 weeks, on your schedule.
Earning U.S. citizenship isn't a single moment—it's years of commitment, interviews, and preparation. The people participating as learners in the Citizen Guide program have already chosen the legal path and built their lives here. Many just need support for the final stretch. You can make a difference in just one hour a week.
Not ready to commit? Get more details and real stories by subscribing to our email, and take the next step when you're ready.
On a long, hard road, one person can make all the difference. See what it looks like when a Citizen Guide and a learner cross the finish line together:
Lolav left northern Iraq in 2022 and rebuilt her life in Nashville, finishing an engineering degree while preparing for her citizenship exam. She studied for months with Citizen Guide Susie of Cape Cod. The night before her exam she barely slept, but she passed, thanks to Susie’s steady support.
"You do what you can. It may be small, but it's always better than nothing. It's what I live for."
Szymon moved from Poland to the U.S. after meeting his wife while working at Glacier National Park. Now settled in North Carolina, he's preparing for his citizenship exam with his Citizen Guide, Heather. Their weekly sessions go well beyond memorizing civics questions: They dig into the why behind America's laws, compare the quirks of English, and debate North Carolina barbecue. Szymon is still waiting on his exam date, but when it comes, he'll be ready.
“We don’t get to pick where we live, and we’re fortunate to be born here. I feel like it’s a responsibility, as an individual and as a citizen, to give back and to welcome people from around the world.”
Ready to get involved? Take the first step by signing up as a volunteer. Our team will guide you through every step and match you with your first learner.
Find support, tutoring, and resources for your path to citizenship.
Learn moreSee the program live, and get your questions answered before you decide.
Join usFor organizations that want to bring the program to their community.
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