Citizenship test in Bern
The citizenship test in the canton of Bern is written and consists of 48 questions with a 90-minute time limit. You pass from 60 percent correct answers. Alongside general Swiss knowledge, it also covers the canton of Bern itself.
- 48
- questions
- 90
- minutes
- 60%
- to pass
The practice test in the app reproduces the same format: 48 questions, 90 minutes, 60 percent to pass. Only the rules of the canton of Bern and your commune are binding, so clarify the details there.
Format and process in the canton of Bern
With 90 minutes for 48 questions, Bern gives you comparatively generous time, on average well over a minute per question. You must pass with at least 60 percent correct answers. How naturalization is organized in practice also depends on your commune of residence.
General knowledge and the canton of Bern
The test combines core Swiss knowledge with questions about the bilingual canton of Bern. At the national level it covers politics, history, geography, and community life; regionally it covers cantonal institutions, key places, and everyday life in the canton. Bern is both German and French speaking, which explains much of its diversity.
A study strategy for the Bern test
Make use of the generous time in the exam by studying for understanding rather than pure memorization. Work through the general Swiss topics first and review them regularly before you dig into the Bern material. A few practice runs show you where gaps remain.
Preparing for Bern with the app
For the canton of Bern the app holds 30 canton-specific questions, supported by 367 general questions about Switzerland. The practice test adopts the Bern format of 48 questions in 90 minutes with a 60 percent pass mark. Thanks to spaced repetition, questions you find hard resurface at the right moment.
Sample canton questions
What is the capital of the canton of Bern?
Answer: Bern.
Which two main language regions does Bern have?
Answer: German and French.
What is Bern’s cantonal parliament called?
Answer: The Grand Council.
Common questions
How many questions are on the Bern citizenship test?
The test consists of 48 questions with a 90-minute time limit. You need at least 60 percent correct to pass.
How long does the test in the canton of Bern take?
You have 90 minutes for the 48 questions, on average well over a minute each. If you practice the pace beforehand, time pressure is rarely an issue.
Can I retake the test in Bern?
A retake is usually possible, but the exact conditions are set by your canton and commune. It is best to ask the responsible office directly before you plan.
What should I focus on for Bern?
Alongside general Swiss knowledge, it pays to study the canton of Bern itself, such as its cantonal institutions, geography, and everyday life. Keep in mind that Bern is both German and French speaking.
How does the app help me prepare for Bern?
With Bern selected as your canton, you study 30 canton-specific questions plus general questions about Switzerland, and the practice test mirrors the Bern format of 48 questions in 90 minutes.
Official information
- Canton of Bern – Citizenship test
Last checked: 2026-07-23
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30 canton-specific questions in the app – plus 367 general questions about Switzerland.
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