The N-400 states:
"(a) If you are over 50 and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident for periods totaling at least 20 years, you do not have to take the English test. You do have to take the civics test in the language of your choice;
(b ) If you are over 55 and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident for periods totaling at least 15 years, you do not have to take the English test. You do have to take the civics test in the language of your choice;
choice;
(c ) If you are over 65 and have lived in the United States as a Permanent Resident for periods totaling at least 20 years, you do not have to take the English test, but you do have to take a simpler version of the civics test in the language of your choice."
Can someone who is over 65 years of age choose exemption (b ) or is he or she forced into exemption (c )? These exemptions are based on the time of filing.