Life in the UK Prep The ILR test: what you need to pass for Indefinite Leave to Remain
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When people talk about the 'ILR test' they mean the Life in the UK test: 24 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes, with a pass mark of 18 (75%). Most ILR applicants aged 18 to 65 must pass it, along with meeting the English language requirement.
There’s no separate exam called the “ILR test”. When people say ILR test, ILR exam or settlement test, they mean the Life in the UK test, which most people must pass before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain. The same test is often called the British citizenship test, because the pass also counts for naturalisation.
ILR test format
| Questions | 24, multiple choice |
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | 18 correct (75%) |
| Cost | £50 |
| Where | An approved test centre in the UK |
| Based on | Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition) |
Some questions have one correct answer out of four; others ask you to choose whether a statement is true or false, or to pick two correct answers.
Who needs the ILR test?
Most ILR applicants aged 18 to 65 need to pass. You’re usually exempt if you’re under 18, 65 or over, or have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents you from taking it. See who is exempt from the Life in the UK test.
What’s in the ILR test?
Every question comes from the official handbook’s five chapters:
- 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
History and modern society produce many of the questions, so expect plenty of dates, people, places and traditions. Our guide to the Life in the UK handbook breaks down each chapter.
The other ILR test: English
As well as the Life in the UK test, you usually have to prove your English at B1 level in speaking and listening. That’s a separate requirement, often met with an approved English test. See English language requirement for ILR.
How to pass the ILR test
- Read the handbook once from start to finish.
- Practise questions with explanations so the facts stick.
- Take timed mock tests in the real 24-question, 45-minute format.
- Book when you’re consistently scoring well above 18/24.
Start now with a sample ILR mock test, then read how to pass the Life in the UK test.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ILR test?
The ILR test is the common name for the Life in the UK test, which most people aged 18 to 65 must pass before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
How many questions are in the ILR test?
24 multiple-choice questions, to be answered in 45 minutes. You need 18 correct (75%) to pass.
Is the ILR test hard?
It's very passable with preparation, but it isn't general knowledge. Questions test specific facts from the official handbook, such as dates and names, so most people who fail simply haven't studied the book.
Is there an ILR mock test?
Yes. Try a sample ILR mock test on this site, then take full timed 24-question mock tests in the Life in the UK Prep app, drawn from about 290 questions.
Is the ILR test the same as the citizenship test?
Yes. The Life in the UK test is used for both ILR and British citizenship, and you only need to pass it once.
This is general information, not immigration or legal advice. For advice about your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser. Immigration rules change, so always check GOV.UK before you apply.