When applying for British citizenship or settlement in the UK, one important requirement is passing the Life in the UK test. This test helps you understand British culture, history, and daily life. While it might seem straightforward, it’s important to be fully prepared. Here’s everything you need to know to pass the test.
Booking the Test
You can book your Life in the UK test through the official UK government website (www.gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test). The test is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions. There are about 30 test centers across the UK where you can take it.
To book the test, you’ll need:
- A valid ID (see below for details)
- A valid email address
- A debit or credit card
Accepted IDs:
- Biometric Residence Permit or Biometric Residence Card (must be up to date)
- A valid passport (outdated passports are not accepted)
- A valid travel document with a photo
- A European Union identity card (must be up to date)
Proof of Address:
You must also provide a document proving your address, such as:
- A council tax bill
- A gas/electricity/water bill
- Bank or credit card statement
- UK photocard driving license
- A Home Office letter (with your name and address)
The proof of address document should be no older than 3 months.
Cost of the Life in the UK Test
The cost of the test is £50. You must book the test at least 3 days in advance via the official government website.
Who Can Take the Test?
The test is for foreign nationals who are:
- 18 years or older
- Under 65 years old
You cannot take the test if:
- You are under 18 or over 65
- You have already passed the test (for example, when applying for settlement, you don’t need to retake the test if you’ve passed it before)
- You have a long-term physical or mental condition (you’ll need a doctor’s letter or form explaining why you can’t take the test)
Test Format
The test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions based on the official Life in the UK handbook. To pass, you must get at least 75% correct—18 out of 24 questions. The test is timed, and you have 45 minutes to complete it.
What Happens in the Test
- You must take the same ID to the test center that you used to book the test.
- Your photo will be taken at the center to confirm your identity. Refusing to have your photo taken may result in the suspension of your test with no refund.
- You cannot bring children or dependents to the test center.
Passing the Test
To pass the Life in the UK test, you need to score at least 75% (18 correct answers). After passing, you will receive a unique reference number. You will need this number when completing your application for British citizenship or settlement.
If you passed before 17 December 2019, you will have received a test reference ID instead.
If You Fail the Test
If you fail the test, you can retake it after 7 days. You must make a new booking and pay the fee each time you take the test.
Cancelling and Getting a Refund
You can cancel your test at any time before the test date. If you cancel more than 72 hours before the test, you can get a refund. If you cancel within 3 days of the test, you will not be refunded.
To cancel, log in to your test account, click on ‘Confirmed tests’, and select ‘cancel test’.
If the test center cancels your test, you are entitled to a refund.
Note: You cannot get a refund if you miss the test for personal reasons, like being late, forgetting your ID, or being ill.
Making a Complaint
If you have a complaint about the test, you can submit it within 3 months of the test date.
Preparing for the Test
The Life in the UK test is based on the official Life in the UK handbook. It’s important to study this guide thoroughly to ensure you’re ready. The test covers various aspects of life in the UK, including:
- British history
- UK culture
- Political systems
- Daily life in the UK
Get Help with Your Application
If you need assistance with your application for British citizenship or settlement, Law and Visas can provide expert guidance to help you through the process. We can assist with booking your test, preparing your documents, and ensuring everything is for your application.
By properly preparing for the Life in the UK test, you can increase your chances of passing and move one step closer to becoming a British citizen.
