You are not a citizen until you are sworn in. If you are denied because of failure to pass the English or the civics test, you will be automatically rescheduled within 90 days. If you are not approved for some other reason, you may be given time to overcome the problem.
For 2009, the American Opportunity Credit--which is a variation of the Hope Credit--will be allowed for 4 years. For years before and after the new credit is allowed, the Hope credit is supposed to be for 2 years.
The credit is intended to offset the cost of raising children. The maximum amount you can get for each child is $1,000 for Tax Year 2016. You must file Form 1040A efile it or Form 1040 efile it to claim the credit (you cannot claim the Child Tax Credit on a 1040-EZ). You can complete and file a 1040A or 1040 in order the claim the Child Tax Credit on efile.com.