The Life in the UK Test is a requirement for most people applying for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) or British citizenship. This guide explains who needs it, how it works, what it costs and how to prepare.

Who needs to take it

Most people applying for settlement or citizenship need to pass it, if the guidance for their application says so. You don’t need to take it if you:

• are under 18,
• are 65 or over,
• have passed it before, or
• have a long-term physical or mental condition that stops you taking it, which needs an exemption form or a doctor’s letter.

Check the guidance for your application on GOV.UK.

The format

The test has 24 questions and you have 45 minutes. You take it on a computer at an approved test centre in the UK. The questions are about British values, history, traditions, government and law. Most have one correct answer; some ask whether a statement is true or false, or ask you to choose two answers.

All the questions come from one book: the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition).

The pass mark

You need 75%, which is 18 correct answers out of 24.

Cost and booking

The test costs £50 and is booked online through the official Life in the UK Test booking service on GOV.UK, at least 3 days in advance. There are over 30 test centres around the UK. The name you book with must match your ID exactly. Only book through GOV.UK.

If you fail

You can take the test again as many times as you need. You must wait at least 7 days before your next attempt, and you book and pay the £50 fee again each time.

The handbook is out of date in places

The test follows the 3rd edition of the handbook, and some facts in it are now out of date. For example, it names Queen Elizabeth II as the monarch and describes the UK as a member of the European Union. Answer the way the handbook does.

How hard is it?

The history chapter is the longest and most detailed, full of dates, names and events from early Britain to the present. The questions on government and law are also detailed. Because only 6 wrong answers are allowed, it’s worth knowing the handbook well rather than relying on general knowledge.

How to prepare

1. Read the official handbook chapter by chapter.
2. Take practice tests after each chapter, and full 24-question tests at the end.
3. Make notes on dates and names from the history chapter, and review them often.
4. Aim to score well above 18 before you book.

Start with free practice on the home page.