Life in the UK Test

What is the Life in the UK Test?

In 2005, the British government decided to introduce the Life in the UK Test, also referred to as the British Citizenship Test, to encourage people applying to settle in the United Kingdom permanently to learn more about UK society: its rich culture, traditions, structures and ways of life.

Immigration rules state that anyone applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanently settling in the UK) or British Citizenship must meet the ‘Knowledge of language and life in the United Kingdom’ (KOLL) requirement. As well as passing the Life in the UK Test, applicants must now also have an English speaking and listening qualification at Level B1 (ESOL Entry 3) or above. If you’re from a country where English is the national language, such as the USA or Australia, you’re exempt from this language requirement.

Facts about the test

Below are a few facts about the Life in the UK Test:

• The test consists of 24-multiple choice questions.
• You need to answer at least 18 questions correctly to pass (75%).
• You have 45 minutes to complete the test.
• It must be taken in the English language. However, if you are in Scotland or Wales you can request to sit the test in Scottish Gaelic or Welsh when booking.
• All of the questions that appear in the test are based on official learning material produced by the Home Office. This learning material appears in a study guide called Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, 3rd Edition. This is available online or a hard copy can be purchased here.
• The test is entirely computer-based and will be conducted on a computer provided by the test centre.
• Headphones can be used to listen to questions.
• According to data based on tests taken between 2009 and 2014, the pass rate is 70%. Individuals from EU member countries have a greater pass rate (86%) than those from outside the EU (68%).
• It currently costs £50.00 to book a test.

Who has to sit the Life in the UK test?

Most people applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain or British Citizenship will need to take the test. However, you won’t need to sit the test if:

• You’re under the age of 18.
• You’re over the age of 65.
• You’ve passed the test on a previous occasion.
• You’re suffering from a chronic physical or mental illness. If you have a visual or hearing impairment, you will still be required to take the test. Conditions that may be regarded as short-term, such as stress or depression, do not usually qualify as a valid reason to be exempt from the test. However, your application for an exemption will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, so it is important you have ample evidence from a medical professional to support your request.

How do I book the Life in the UK Test?

You must book your test online at www.lituktestbooking.co.uk.

Register for an account on the website to book the test. The registration page can be accessed here: www.lituktestbooking.co.uk/lituk-web/registration

To successfully register, you need to have a valid email address. If you don’t have an email address and don’t have access to anyone that can help set one up for you, go to your local library to find out where you can get help. (See below for further advice.)

You can call the Life in the UK test helpline on 0800 015 4245 for advice and information about booking the test.

What information do I need to book my test?

In order to book your test, you need to provide the following information:

• your name
• your address and postcode
• your e-mail address
• a biometric residence permit (BRP), a passport or another acceptable form of photo ID; you will have to take this ID along with you when you go to the test centre on the day of your test
• details of any special requests you may have (if applicable)

What forms of photographic ID can I use?

You must bring one of the following documents to the test centre on the day of your test. Please keep in mind that the document must include a photo that looks like you and must not be out of date:

• biometric residence permit (BRP) – a residence permit containing your biometric information, facial image and fingerprints
• UK photocard driving licence – this can be full of provisional
• European Union identity card
• approved travel document – for example, a UK Home Office travel document such as a convention travel document (CTD), a UK stateless persons travel document (SPD) or a UK certificate of identity (CID)

You can also use the following documents, which may be out of date (expired):

• passport from your country of origin – this must not be cancelled
• immigration status document (ISD), endorsed with a UK residence permit (UKRP) bearing your photo

Click here to view more information about acceptable forms of ID.

If you do not have access to any of these documents, email the Home Office at the following email address for further guidance: nationalityenquiries@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk

Do I need to take any supporting documents with me to the test centre?

In addition to a form of photographic ID, you need to take an official document that clearly states your name as well as your current address and postcode. The supporting document must be an original rather than a photocopy and no older than 3 months prior to the date of your test. Examples of acceptable documents include:

• bank statement
• utility (gas/water/electricity) bill
• council tax bill
• UK photocard driving licence
• letter from the Home Office with your name and address on it

You will not be able to take the Life in the UK Test without one of the above documents, so please ensure you bring it with you.

Can I take the test at a location of my choice?

When you book your test, you will be given a choice of five test centres closest to your home. Simply choose the one that is most convenient for you. If you try to select a test centre that is beyond the five closest test centres, you will not be permitted to sit the test, nor will you receive a refund for your booking.

Most Life in the UK Test centres are also learning centres which provide services whereby you can improve your English language or computer skills.

Can I choose the date and time of my test?

When booking your test online, you will be able to pick a test session that suits you. The earliest you can sit your test is usually 3 days from the date of your booking. In other words, if your booking application is made on 1 August, the earliest available slot would be 4 August. You will also be able to pick a time that suits you.

What should I do if I need to cancel or change the date of my test?

If you can’t attend the test session you book, you must sign in to your Life in the UK Test account, select the ‘Confirmed tests’ option and then select the ‘Cancel tests’ option.

To be eligible for a refund, the cancellation must be made 3 days or more before the date of your test. The refund will be credited back to the debit or credit card you used to book the test.

You can then proceed to rebook your test on a suitable date.

What should I do if I have a disability and I have special test requirements?

The Life in the UK Test is available in different formats or styles to allow people with disabilities or special needs to take the test. When you’re booking the test online, you’ll be asked whether you have any special requirements.

If you do, you will be asked to fill in a special arrangement booking form in which you need to specify your special request and provide any additional information regarding your requirements.

A special request may include:

• additional time if you have a visual impairment (you have problems with your vision)
• additional time if you’ve got a hearing impairment (you have problems with your heating)
• additional time if you have a learning difficulty, such as dyslexia, or cannot read in your first language
• the option to take your test in Welsh if your test centre is in Wales
• the option to take your test in Scottish Gaelic if your test centre is in Scotland
• a requirement that doesn’t fall into one of the above categories; you should mention specifics in the space provided

It can take up to 4 working days to make arrangements for your request. Someone will then contact you to confirm whether your request can be met or not.

Please note, people with some disabilities are exempt from taking the Life in the UK Test altogether.

Can the Life in the UK Test only be taken in the English language?

Yes, but with a couple of exceptions. If you’re taking the test at a test centre in Wales or Scotland, you will have the option of sitting your test in Welsh or Scottish Gaelic.

What is the Life in the UK Test fee?

It costs £50 to book the test. This payment needs to be made via debit or credit card when booking your test. If you don’t have one of these, a pre-paid credit card can be used.

I’m not comfortable with using a computer. Can I take a written test?

No. The Life in the UK Test is entirely computer-based and must be taken on a computer at an official test centre. Only basic computer skills are required to complete the test.

If you’re not comfortable with using a computer, you should practice using a keyboard and mouse to build up your confidence before taking the test. If you haven’t got access to a computer at home, there are many places which provide computers to use, such as the local library. Some libraries and council initiatives also offer computer training, so it may be a good idea to look into any computer courses being offered.

A number of the organisations where the test centres are based also offer various courses and training. These may be specialist training providers, further education colleges, adult education centres or voluntary organisations. Training for individuals who are new to using computers is often free of charge.

What will happen when I arrive at the test centre?

First and foremost, ensure you arrive at the test centre at least 30 minutes before your test is due to start. If you arrive with less than 5 minutes remaining, you may be prohibited from taking the test. Give yourself some breathing space in case something goes wrong.

When you arrive at your test centre, you will be sat in a room with other people taking the test. The test supervisor will then proceed to register your details.

You will be asked to provide the ID you used during your registration along with the supporting document that states your name and address.

Without these documents, you will not be able to take the test nor will your test fee be refunded.

The test supervisor will check and record:

• your full name
• your date of birth
• your nationality
• your country and place of birth
• your postcode
• your Home Office reference number (if available)
• your purpose for taking the test
• that your photographic ID looks like you
• your signature

This registration process may take a while as there may be many candidates for the staff to register.

You will then be told the rules and regulations of the test. You won’t be allowed to bring any belongings into the test with you. If you have any bags, books or study material, you must put it in a locker that will be provided. Your mobile phone and other electronic devices must also be put into the locker. If it can be avoided, try not to bring too much with you to the test centre.

If you need to go to the toilet or get some water, do so now because you won’t be able to leave your seat once the test starts.

You will then be shown to a computer on which you will take your test. You will need to place your ID on the desk and wait until the other candidates are ready at their test stations. Test instructions are also displayed on the privacy wall of your desk, for your information.

Can I take a practice test before taking the real test?

Five minutes prior to the start of the test, you’ll be able to complete a practice test, consisting of 4 questions. This will allow you to get to grips with the test software and get used to the user interface.

Before taking the practice test, your supervisor will log into the test software at your station and verify your details on the computer.

Once you’ve finished the practice test, click the Take Test button to begin the official Life in the UK Test.

Can I listen to the questions and answers?

Yes, there is equipment available that will allow you to listen to questions and answers.

How many questions does the Life in the UK Test have?

The test consists of 24 questions.

How long does the Life in the UK Test last?

You will have 45 minutes to complete the test. It is imperative you don’t rush as you are given plenty of time to finish. You should have enough time to think carefully about your answers and to double-check them before the end of the test.

What is the Life in the UK Test pass mark?

The pass mark is 75%. You must get at least 18 answers correct to pass.

Can I take anyone with me to the test centre?

You’re not allowed to take family or friends into the test room with you. They may be able to wait for you at the reception.

Will I take the test with others?

You will be taking the test with about 15 other people, although this depends on time and location.

Can I take books, notes or other study material into the test with me?

No, the Life in the UK Test isn’t an open book exam. Any books, notes or study material must be left at home or put in a locker before the start of the test. Mobile phones and other electronic devices must also be turned off and put away.

What types of questions are there in the Life in the UK Test?

All questions in the Life in the UK Test are multiple-choice. You will encounter four different types of multiple-choice questions during the test. You will be required to select at least one correct answer, depending on the question type.

The following examples demonstrate the different types of questions. Please note, these are not real test questions.

Question type 1

The first type of question will ask you to select one correct answer from four options.

The correct answer is Scotland.

In this question, only one answer needs to be selected. To select an answer, click on the white circle next to your chosen answer. A black dot will appear in the circle to indicate your answer.

If you have clicked on the wrong circle in error, you can change your answer by clicking on the correct circle.

Question type 2

For the second type of question you need to select two correct answers from four options. Both answers must be correct to get a point.

The correct answers are Football and Cricket. When you click on one of the boxes a tick will appear like this: ✔

Question type 3

For the third type of question, you have to simply decide whether a statement is True or False.

The statement is TRUE.

Question type 4

For the final type of question, you need to choose the correct statement from two options.

The correct answer is Balmoral Castle is currently one of the residences of the British Royal Family.

If I live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, will there be test questions specific to those places?

The test questions will be based on the information presented in Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, 3rd Edition, which is the official study guide for the Life in the UK Test. The test will also include questions specific to the part of the UK you live in – England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. All of this information will be in the study guide.

How do I know how much time I have left until the end of the test?

The test has a timer which counts down 45 minutes from when you start the test and shows you how much time you have left until the end of the test.

You will get a time alert at three stages during the test:

• Halfway through the test
• 10 minutes before the end of the test
• 2 minutes before the end of the test

What should I do if I want to change or check answers I did earlier?

To the top of each question, there are boxes to indicate which questions you have answered and which questions are still outstanding.

To the bottom of the screen, you will see Previous question and Next question buttons. Clicking these will allow you to navigate through the questions. 

You will also see a Questions left to answer reminder at the bottom of the screen, informing you of the number of questions you have left to answer. Questions answered refers to the number of questions you have completed.

What happens if I run out of time?

If you run out of time, the test will automatically end and you won’t be able to select any more answers. However, the vast majority of candidates finish with plenty of time to spare.

If you have practiced the mock tests on this website and have used the study tips to effectively work your way through the study material, you should be well prepared. The Life in the UK Test is simply a test of knowledge; its questions have not been designed to trick or confuse you.

Following are some tips that will help you to pass the Life in the UK Test. The most important piece of advice is that you should try to stay as calm and relaxed as you possibly can. Stress can affect concentration, resulting in mistakes.

Remember, if you do happen to fail your test, you can take it as many times as you need to until you pass.

Tips

• When booking your test, make sure you’re careful to enter the correct details.
• Plan your journey to the test centre so that you arrive with plenty of time to spare before the test begins. Aim to arrive at least half an hour early.
• Get a good night’s sleep before the day of your test. Your memory functions better when you’re well-rested.
• Eat a healthy meal on the day of your test. Avoid eating a large, heavy meal.
• Make sure you’re well-hydrated before the test and take a bottle of water with you. Dehydration affects the performance of your brain.
• Use the toilet before the test if you need to.
• Remember to take the required documents that you need to present to the test supervisor at the test centre. Ensure your personal details are entered correctly into the system; it is your responsibility to make sure these details are correct.
• Listen to the instructions carefully before the start of the test. If there is anything you do not understand or are unsure about, ask. The supervisor is there to help you.

Answering the questions

• Make sure you do the practice test before the start of the official test. This will give you a chance to get a feel of the test and how it works.
• Once you start the test, read each question carefully and make sure you fully understand what the question is asking.
• Make sure you select an answer for each question, even if you’re not sure it’s correct. There is a chance you will get the answer correct, even with a guess. If there are only 2 possible answers to the question, you have a 50% chance of answering correctly.
• If a question has 4 options and you don’t know the answer, try to eliminate the options which are obviously wrong. This will narrow down the alternatives and increase your chances of getting the answer right.
• Plan your time wisely and refer to the timer on the screen when you need to. Keep in mind that the vast majority of people complete the test using no more than half the allotted time (about 22 minutes). The test lasts 45 minutes, so you don’t need to rush.
• Don’t spend too much time on a single question. If you find yourself struggling with a question, leave it and revisit it after answering the questions you’re able to. If you don’t know the answer to the question, take a guess and don’t worry too much. Remember, you’re allowed 6 incorrect answers.
• If you find yourself getting nervous, stop for a few moments, refocus and carry on. Know that if you prepared sufficiently, you’ll pass the test. If you don’t pass, it’s not the end of the world.

When do I find out my result?

You get your result on the same day as your test. You will be informed of your result shortly after finishing the test whilst you’re still at the test centre.

I passed my test! Now what?

After passing your test, you will be presented with a printed pass notification letter which you will need to sign before leaving the test centre.

What should I do if I fail the Life in the UK Test?

You will need to wait at least 7 days before you can book another test. The notification letter you receive after the test will inform you of where you went wrong, so you know what you need to improve on for next time. If you found that you answered a large number of questions incorrectly, you may want to spend a larger amount of time going over the study material, doing more practice tests and filling in any gaps in your knowledge.

Will the questions be the same next time?

No. For each test, 24 questions are chosen at random from a bank of 400, so every test is different to the last.

How long is the Life in the UK Test valid for?

Once you have passed the Life in the UK Test, there is no expiry date and it remains valid indefinitely.