What is the Life in the UK Test?
The Life in the UK Test is a compulsory exam required for most people applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British Citizenship. It checks your knowledge of UK history, culture, traditions and laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Life in the UK Test, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and British Citizenship applications.
Do I need to take the test for ILR?
Yes — unless you are exempt due to age (under 18 or over 65) or certain medical conditions. For most ILR applications, passing the Life in the UK Test is a requirement alongside proving your English language ability.
Is the Life in the UK Test the same as the Citizenship Test?
Yes. The test is commonly referred to as both the “Life in the UK Test” and the “British Citizenship Test”. It is the same exam, required for both ILR and naturalisation applications.
How many questions are in the test?
The official test has 24 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 18 correct answers (75%) to pass. On our website, each of our 50 fixed groups also contains 24 questions to simulate the real exam.
Where can I take the Life in the UK Test?
You must take the test at an approved UK Home Office test centre. There are around 30+ centres across the UK. You cannot sit the test online or outside the UK. See our test centres page for a full list.
How much does the test cost?
The Life in the UK Test currently costs £50. You pay this fee when booking online through the official government website.
How do I book the test?
You must book through the official GOV.UK website. You’ll need an email address, a debit/credit card for payment, and valid ID such as your passport, biometric residence permit, or driving licence.
What ID documents are accepted?
Accepted ID usually includes a biometric residence permit, passport, travel document, or European national identity card. Make sure the ID you use to book is the same one you take on the day of your test.
What happens if I fail?
You can retake the test as many times as you need, but you must pay the £50 fee each time. Your result is given immediately after the test.
Do practice questions really help?
Absolutely. Practising with realistic multiple-choice questions helps you get used to the test format. Our 50 fixed groups mirror the official format, making preparation more effective.
How long is the pass certificate valid?
Your Life in the UK Test pass certificate has no expiry date. Once you pass, you can use it for any future ILR or citizenship application.
Can I use this site to prepare for the official exam?
Yes. Our practice questions are designed to help you understand the style of questions you’ll face. While they aren’t the exact questions from the exam, they cover the same topics: history, culture, government and everyday life in the UK.