We'll match you with a screened, trained volunteer who can help you study for the citizenship exam, practice English, or walk through a practice citizenship interview. It’s all online and on your schedule.
"Do not give up. Do not give up your dreams and your goals."
How the program works
Just four steps from sign-up to preparing for your exam.
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Check eligibility. Simply confirm you are currently a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), 18 years or older, and have basic English proficiency to join the program. It’s OK if you have not yet applied to become a citizen (submitted your N-400 application) or do not have an interview date—you can still participate.
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Sign up. A short form helps us learn about you, your availability, and the areas where you need support. It takes just 5 minutes to complete. We will not collect detailed personal information.
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Get matched with a screened, trained Citizen Guide. We match you with a Citizen Guide based on your preferences, your schedule, and the kind of help you're looking for.
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Meet online, about an hour a week. You choose the best way to meet online—WhatsApp, Zoom, Telegram etc. Most pairs meet for one hour for around 10 weeks. You set the schedule together.
What you'll work on
Your Citizen Guide will be one of our volunteer Welcomers across all 50 states. You select what area of the citizenship exam you want to focus on, and we’ll match you with the best Citizen Guide who can support your goals.
Program study areas
Get startedCitizenship test tutoring
The citizenship exam includes an English language test and a U.S. civics exam. The English test evaluates your ability to read, write, speak, and understand basic English. The current civics test has 128 possible questions on history, culture, and U.S. government. You will set your learning goals with your Citizen Guide, and they will help you prepare for all sections of the exam, practice with flashcards, take mock quizzes, and practice English conversation. Typically 10 sessions of one hour each.
English conversation
Practice speaking and understanding English with an encouraging and patient partner. No judgment. Just focused practice time and conversation with someone who can help you feel confident communicating in English. Typically 8 to 10 weekly sessions of one hour each.
Mock citizenship interview practice
Walk through a practice version of the citizenship interview with your Citizen Guide, so you generally know what to expect the day of the exam and receive feedback on areas where you can practice more.
Lolav became a U.S. citizen with a Citizen Guide by her side
Lolav grew up in northern Iraq. After years of paperwork and processes, she made her own journey to the United States.
Lolav had already achieved so much—but becoming a U.S. citizen, the final step in her American story, still seemed like an uphill battle. She studied alongside her engineering coursework, her job, and all the other responsibilities of life.
Lolav was matched with Susie, a Citizen Guide in Massachusetts. For about an hour a week over 10 weeks, they met on Zoom. They went through flashcards. They practiced the interview. They got to know each other.
In March 2026, Lolav passed her citizenship exam.
"Do not give up your dreams and your goals."
Lolav took the oath of U.S. citizenship in April 2026. Susie was there to cheer her on.
Who can sign up
The Citizen Guide program is for all green card holders working toward U.S. citizenship. To sign up, you need to:
- Be a lawful permanent resident (have a green card)
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have basic English proficiency and be comfortable having conversations in English.
Whether you're just starting to think about citizenship or you're deep in your studying, your Citizen Guide will meet you where you are. The program is free and completely online.
Common questions
Is this really free?
Yes. There is no cost to you. Welcome.US is a nonprofit with volunteers and donors who believe in helping new neighbors become U.S. citizens.
Will my Citizen Guide be a lawyer?
Citizen Guides do not provide legal advice, act as attorneys or accredited representatives, or assist with the completion of the citizenship application (N-400 form).
Is my information safe?
Yes. Your personal information is protected. Applicant information is only used to ensure we pair you with the best Citizen Guide for your preferences and goals. Read our privacy policy.
What if I'm still learning English?
You can still join to practice English conversation with a Citizen Guide, as long as you have basic English skills to engage with a volunteer. Many Citizen Guides are native English speakers and can help you build confidence.
Can a Citizen Guide help me fill out the application (Form N-400)?
No. The Citizen Guide program is strictly a tutoring and mentorship program.
About Welcome.US
Welcome.US is a national initiative built to inspire, mobilize, and empower Americans and American institutions from all corners of the country to welcome those seeking refuge here and help them thrive. Since 2021, more than 2.4 million Welcomers across all 50 states have helped newcomers build their American lives.
