The Life in the UK test: what you need to know
The format, pass mark, fee and booking rules for the Life in the UK test, in plain English. Rules and fees can change, so always check GOV.UK before you book.
What is it?
- The Life in the UK test is part of applying for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) or British citizenship.
- It checks your knowledge of British values, history, traditions and everyday life.
- Questions are based on the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition).
The format
- 24 multiple-choice questions.
- 45 minutes to answer them.
- You pass with 18 or more correct answers (75%).
- The test is taken on a computer at an approved test centre, in English.
Booking
- Book online through GOV.UK at least 3 days in advance. There are over 30 test centres across the UK.
- The fee is £50 at the time of writing. Check GOV.UK for the current fee.
- Take the same valid ID that you used to book. The name must match exactly, or you won't be able to sit the test.
Who doesn't need to take it
- People under 18 or aged 65 or over.
- People who have passed it before.
- People with a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents them taking it (you'll need evidence).
If you don't pass
- You can book the test again and pay the fee again. There's no limit on how many times you can take it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Life in the UK test?
It is a computer-based test about British values, history, traditions and everyday life. You usually need to pass it to apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) or British citizenship.
How many questions are in the Life in the UK test, and what is the pass mark?
There are 24 multiple-choice questions and you have 45 minutes. You need 18 correct answers (75%) to pass.
How much does the Life in the UK test cost?
The fee is £50 at the time of writing. Check GOV.UK for the current fee before you book.
How do I book the test?
Book online through GOV.UK at least 3 days in advance. Take the same valid ID you used to book; if the name doesn't match exactly, you won't be able to sit the test.
What should I study?
Every question comes from the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition). History and modern society make up most of the handbook, so they carry the most questions.
How long should I study for?
Most people study for two to four weeks. Practise chapter by chapter, review your mistakes, and take full mock tests until you pass comfortably every time.
What happens if I fail?
You can book the test again and pay the fee again. There's no limit on how many times you can take it.
Who does not need to take the test?
People under 18 or aged 65 or over, people who have passed it before, and people with a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents them taking it (with evidence).
Are these the real test questions?
No. All our questions are original and written from the official handbook. The real test questions are not published, and anyone claiming to sell them should be avoided.
Is Life in the UK Questions free?
You can practise for free: two full mock tests, a share of the questions in every topic, and the study notes and flashcards for the first two chapters. Full Access unlocks everything: choose a weekly or monthly plan, which you can cancel at any time, or pay once for lifetime access.
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Life in the UK Questions is an independent study aid. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the Home Office, UK Visas and Immigration or any part of the UK Government. All practice questions are original and are based on the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition). They are not the questions used in the real test.