What is the Life in the UK test?

The Life in the UK test is a computer-based test that assesses your knowledge of British history, culture, values, government, and everyday life. It is a mandatory requirement for both ILR and British citizenship applications.

How many questions are on the test?

The test has 24 multiple-choice questions. You have 45 minutes to complete it. You need to answer at least 18 questions correctly (75%) to pass.

What happens if I fail the test?

If you fail, you can retake the test after a minimum of 7 days. There is no limit on the number of attempts. You pay the £50 fee each time. See our guide on what to do if you fail.

Is the test difficult?

The test is manageable with proper preparation. Most questions come directly from the official study guide. The pass rate is around 70%, meaning the majority of people pass on their first attempt with adequate study.

Life in the UK Test: The Complete Guide

The Life in the UK test is a 24-question, computer-based test covering British history, culture, government, and everyday life. You need 75% (18 correct answers) to pass. The test costs £50 and can be taken at test centres across the UK. With proper preparation using the official handbook and practice tests, the majority of candidates pass on their first attempt.

Test Format

The Life in the UK test is taken on a computer at an official test centre:

24 multiple-choice questions
45 minutes to complete
Questions are randomly selected from a large question bank
Some questions have multiple correct answers that you must select
Your result is displayed immediately after completing the test

Book your test through the official GOV.UK booking page. See our booking guide for tips on finding available slots.

What the Test Covers

The test is based on the official handbook and covers:

The values and principles of the UK: Democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance, and participation in community life.
History: Key events from British history including the Roman era, the Middle Ages, the Tudor period, the Industrial Revolution, and modern history.
Government and law: How the UK government works, Parliament, devolved governments, the legal system, and your rights and responsibilities.
Everyday life: Housing, healthcare, education, employment, and community life.

For a detailed breakdown, see our test topics guide.

How to Prepare

The most effective preparation strategy:

Read the official handbook: The questions come from this book. Read it thoroughly at least twice. See our study guide.
Take practice tests: Complete as many practice tests as possible. Aim to consistently score above 85% before booking your real test.
Focus on weak areas: After practice tests, identify topics where you lose marks and revise those sections.
Allow enough time: Most people need 2-4 weeks of study. Start early.

On Test Day

What to expect when you arrive at the test centre:

Arrive at least 30 minutes early
Bring your passport or BRP as identification
No personal items allowed in the test room (phones, bags, notes)
You will be shown to a computer terminal
Read each question carefully; some require multiple answers
Your result is shown on screen immediately after you finish

If You Pass

You will receive a pass notification letter that you include with your ILR or citizenship application. The pass does not expire. If you pass for ILR, you do not need to retake it for citizenship.

If You Fail

You can retake the test after 7 days. See our what to do if you fail guide for advice on improving your score. The pass rate is around 70%, so failing is not uncommon. See our pass rate guide.

Costs and Exemptions

The test costs £50 per attempt. See our cost guide for details. Some people are exempt from the test. See our exemptions guide and disability exemptions guide.