Chapter 1 · The values and principles of the UK
Taking the test: Life in the UK test study notes
The Life in the UK test can only be booked online, through the official booking service. It must be taken at a registered and approved test centre; you cannot sit it at home or anywhere else. On the day, bring the original of the same identity document you used to book. Without it you will be turned away and will not get your fee back. The questions are based on the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, so studying it thoroughly is the best preparation. If you do not pass, you can book the test again; there is no limit on attempts, but you pay each time. GOV.UK sets out the practical rules: there are 24 questions to answer in 45 minutes. You need at least 75% (18 correct answers) to pass, and you must book at least 3 days in advance. When you pass, you receive a unique reference number to use in your application.
Key facts to remember
- The test can only be booked online, through the official booking service.
- Only registered and approved test centres can run the test; you cannot sit it anywhere else. The Home Office only accepts certificates from registered test centres.
- The handbook says to bring identification and proof of your address. GOV.UK now asks for the original of the same ID you used to book; without it you will be turned away and will not get a refund.
- Most people take the test in English, but it can also be arranged in Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.
- Questions are based only on the official handbook for new residents and can come from any part of it, including the introduction.
- The handbook's 'Check that you understand' boxes only help with revision; learning just what they highlight is not enough to pass.
- You are not tested on when people were born or died.
- If you fail, you can book again as many times as you need, paying each time.
- GOV.UK: 24 questions in 45 minutes.
- Each candidate in a session gets their own set of 24 questions, so people sitting side by side have different tests.
- GOV.UK: you need 75% to pass, which is 18 correct answers out of 24.
- GOV.UK: book at least 3 days in advance.
- GOV.UK: the fee is £50 at the time of writing; check GOV.UK for the current amount.
- GOV.UK: a pass gives you a unique reference number for your settlement or citizenship application.
Test yourself on chapter 1
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These notes summarise the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition), which all the test questions come from. Try the free chapter 1 questions.