U.S. Geography

What to know

The United States has 50 states and its capital is Washington, D.C. Canada borders the country to the north and Mexico to the south.

The Pacific Ocean lies along the West Coast and the Atlantic Ocean along the East Coast. The Rocky Mountains run through the West, and the older, lower Appalachian Mountains run through the East. The Mississippi River flows south past New Orleans into the Gulf.

Alaska is the largest state by area. Hawaii is made up of islands in the central Pacific Ocean.

Key facts to remember

• 50 states; the capital is Washington, D.C.
• Canada to the north, Mexico to the south.
• Pacific Ocean on the West Coast, Atlantic on the East Coast.
• Rocky Mountains in the West, Appalachians in the East.
• The Mississippi River flows past New Orleans to the Gulf.
• Alaska is the largest state; Hawaii is an island state.

Read the official study materials

This summary is our own and doesn’t replace the official guide. Read “Geography” in the USCIS study materials on uscis.gov, then test yourself below. Next topic: Symbols & holidays.