What generally happens if an applicant fails the citizenship interview?

If an applicant fails the citizenship interview, the process doesn't end there. The correct outcome in this situation is that the applicant can retake the interview at a later date. Failing to pass the citizenship interview typically means that the applicant did not meet the required standards for the civics, reading, or writing portions of the test. However, applicants often have the opportunity to address any issues and attempt the interview again, usually within a specific timeframe. This chance to retake the interview allows applicants to better prepare and demonstrate their knowledge or improve their language skills.

The other choices suggest more rigid or final outcomes which are not characteristic of the citizenship interview process. For example, automatic denial or the requirement to submit a new application would imply a finality that is not applicable in many cases. Furthermore, rescheduling indefinitely does not reflect the structured nature of the process, which allows for a follow-up opportunity at a defined time. Therefore, the option of retaking the interview represents a hopeful and actionable path forward for applicants.