British citizenship test: free Life in the UK test practice
Updated · Rules and fees can change, so always check GOV.UK
The British citizenship test, also called the UK citizenship test, is the Life in the UK test. It is one test with one official name. You usually need to pass it before you apply for British citizenship or for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).
What the citizenship test is like
- 24 multiple-choice questions, taken on a computer at an approved test centre.
- 45 minutes to answer them.
- You pass with 18 or more correct answers (75%).
- The fee is £50 at the time of writing. Check GOV.UK for the current fee.
- It is in English. It can also be arranged in Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.
What the questions are about
Every question comes from the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition). It has five chapters, and history and modern society carry the most questions.
- The values and principles of the UK
- What is the UK?
- A long and illustrious history
- A modern, thriving society
- The UK government, the law and your role
How to practise for the citizenship test
- Take a free mock test first to see where you stand. It is 24 questions in 45 minutes, marked like the real test.
- Practise questions one chapter at a time, and read the explanation for every one you get wrong.
- Read the short study notes for the topics you keep missing.
- Keep taking mock tests until you pass comfortably every time. Passing three in a row with 21 or more correct is a good sign you are ready.
The citizenship test is not the English test
Most people applying for British citizenship or settlement must also show they can speak and understand English. That is a separate requirement with its own approved tests. Passing the Life in the UK test does not cover it. GOV.UK explains what you need for your application.
Questions people ask
Is the British citizenship test the same as the Life in the UK test?
Yes. "British citizenship test" and "UK citizenship test" are everyday names for the Life in the UK test.
How many questions are in the British citizenship test?
There are 24 multiple-choice questions and you have 45 minutes. You need 18 correct answers (75%) to pass.
Where do I take the citizenship test?
At an approved test centre in the UK. There are over 30, and you choose one when you book through GOV.UK.
I passed the Life in the UK test for settlement. Do I take it again for citizenship?
Usually not, because people who have passed before do not need to take it again. Check the guidance for your application.
Are these the real citizenship test questions?
No. The real questions are not published. Our questions are original and written from the official handbook, in the same style as the test.
Pass first time
Practise free questions and take a timed 24-question mock test.
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.