Life in the UK Test: A Complete Guide
- Amir Nikfekr
- Oct 23
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 25
What is the Life in the UK test and why you need to take it
If you are ready to apply for indefinite leave to remain or naturalisation, one of the requirements you will have to meet is demonstrating sufficient knowledge about life in the UK. For most people, this means passing the Life in the UK test. This test is designed to evaluate your knowledge of British customs, traditions, laws, and the political system. The 45 minute test consists of 24 multiple choice questions, at least 18 of which you will need to answer correctly to meet the minimum pass mark (75%).
Why do I need to take the test?
The purpose of the Life in the UK test is to demonstrate you have sufficient knowledge of and commitment to British society. The test was introduced under the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 and became a legal requirement in 2005. From 2018, the specific provisions can be found in Appendix KoLL.
Who is exempt?
You may be exempt from taking the Life in the UK test if, at the time of application, you meet any of these criteria:
You are under the age of 18
You are over the age of 65
It would be unreasonable to expect you to take the Life in the UK test because of a mental or physical condition.
Preparing for the test
With so much at stake, it is very important to properly prepare for the Life in the UK test in good time. If you fail the test, you will lose the test fee and spend additional time for a second test.
How do I prepare for the test?
There are various training materials and resources available online. The Home Office offers official study guides, question and answer booklets, and subscription-based courses to help you prepare.
Practice tests and learning materials
Tips for studying efficiently
Your circumstances may leave you with less than ideal time to prepare for the test. Make sure to be consistent with your studies, leaving an allocated time every day to go through the materials. Focus on areas you are less confident in and try to complete as many practice questions as you can under test conditions.
Booking and managing your test appointment
How do I book the Life in the UK test?
You can book your Life in the UK test through the Gov.UK website. Once you have selected from the 30 test centres available across the UK, you must pay the test fee which is currently £50.
What additional services are available?
If you require more flexibility or have an urgent need to take the text, the Home Office offers the following additional services.
Changing or cancelling your appointment
You can reschedule or cancel your appointment with a refund with at least 72 hours notice. Simply sign in to your account and make the necessary amendments.
On the day of the test
What should I bring?
You should take your identification, proof of address (dated within the last 3 months), and booking confirmation. A secure locker will be provided to store personal belongings before entering the test room.
Test duration and process
You should allocate around 2 hours for the whole process. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment. The test itself will last 45 minutes.
Can I take notes during the test?
You will be allowed to take notes during the test, but you must hand them to your test supervisor before leaving the test room.
Technical problems and early completion
If you experience technical issues during the test or complete the test before the 45 minutes is finished, you should quietly notify your test supervisor.
Understanding results and next steps
How is the Life in the UK test assessed?
The outcome of your test will be based on how many questions you answer correctly. There are no half marks or partial scores; each question is either correctly or incorrectly answered. If you answer at least 18 questions correctly, you will pass the test. Your test supervisor will inform you verbally of the outcome afterwards.
What happens if I pass?
If you pass the Life in the UK test, you will be notified verbally after the test is finished. Your online account will be updated with a unique reference number and confirmation of a 'Pass' result which you may then use for your settlement and/or naturalisation application. This test result is reusable and will never expire.
What happens if I fail?
If you fail the Life in the UK test, your online account will be updated with a 'Fail' result. You will not be eligible for a refund of the test fee and will have to make arrangements to re-sit the test. There is no limit to how many re-sits you can have, but you may have to wait 7 days before booking your next test.
Preparing well and understanding the Life in the UK test structure is the key to success. Consistent practice using official study materials and mock tests will boost your confidence and help you pass the Life in the UK test on your first attempt.
