If you are applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British Citizenship, passing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory step for most applicants.
While the idea of an exam can be stressful, knowing exactly what the format looks like is half the battle. This guide breaks down the numbers, the rules, and what happens on the day so you can walk into the test centre with confidence.
1. The Key Numbers
The test is designed to verify your knowledge of British customs, traditions, history, and political systems. It is entirely computer-based.
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Time Limit: 45 minutes
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Number of Questions: 24 questions
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Format: Multiple-choice
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Pass Mark: 75% (You must answer at least 18 out of 24 correctly)
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Cost: £50 per attempt
Note: You can take the test as many times as needed, but you must pay the £50 fee for every attempt and wait 7 days between tests.
2. Question Styles
While all questions are multiple-choice, they appear in different formats. You won’t just see standard “pick one answer” questions. Be prepared for:
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Standard Multiple Choice: Choose 1 correct answer from 4 options.
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True or False: Decide if a statement about British history or law is true.
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Select Two: You may be asked to choose two correct reasons or facts from a list of four.
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Image Identification: Occasionally, you might be asked to identify a famous British landmark or historical figure from a photo (though text-based questions are most common).
3. What Topics are Covered?
The questions are strictly based on the official handbook: Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd Edition). Do not rely on general knowledge; specific facts are required.
The curriculum is split into these core areas:
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The Values and Principles of the UK: Democracy, rule of law, and tolerance.
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A Long and Illustrious History: From the Stone Age and the Romans to the Tudors, Stuarts, and the World Wars.
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A Modern, Thriving Society: Culture, sports, arts, and daily life in the UK today.
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The UK Government, the Law, and Your Role: The monarchy, Parliament, voting, and the justice system.
4. On the Day of the Test
The strictness of the test centre often surprises people. Treat it like an airport security check.
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ID is Critical: You must bring the exact ID you used to book the test online. If you booked with a passport, bring that passport. If you bring a different ID, you will be turned away without a refund.
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Security: Phones, watches, and bags are usually locked away in a locker before you enter the exam room.
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Practice Round: Before the real timer starts, you will get a few practice questions to get used to the computer software.
5. Getting Your Results
You don’t have to wait long. You will typically be told whether you passed or failed on the same day while you are still at the test centre.
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If you pass: You receive a Unique Reference Number (URN). You will need to quote this number on your citizenship or settlement application.
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If you fail: You will be told which areas you struggled with (e.g., “History”), but you won’t see exactly which questions you got wrong.
6. Quick Preparation Tips
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Read the Handbook Twice: The questions can be very specific (e.g., dates of battles or specific clauses in the Bill of Rights). Skimming isn’t enough.
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Use Official Mock Tests: The phrasing of questions in the real test can be tricky. Official practice tests help you get used to the “True/False” logic.
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Don’t Rush: 45 minutes is actually a long time for 24 questions. Most people finish in 10–15 minutes. Use the extra time to double-check your answers.