Life in the UK Prep The Life in the UK test 2026: a complete guide
What the test is, who needs it for ILR and citizenship, how it works on the day, and how to make sure you pass first time.
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The Life in the UK test at a glance
| Questions | 24, multiple choice |
| Time allowed | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | 18 correct (75%) |
| Cost | £50 |
| Where | An approved test centre, on a computer |
| Study material | Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition) |
| Retakes | Allowed after 7 days, paying the fee again |
What is the Life in the UK test?
The Life in the UK test checks that you know about British traditions, customs, history and how the country is governed. It’s one of the requirements for settling in the UK permanently and for becoming a British citizen, alongside the English language requirement.
Who needs to take it?
Most people aged 18 to 65 need to pass the Life in the UK test to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also called settlement, or to become a British citizen. If you passed it for ILR, you don’t take it again for citizenship.
You usually don’t need to take it if you’re under 18 or 65 and over, and some people are exempt because of a long-term physical or mental condition. The exact rules depend on your visa, so check your route on GOV.UK.
What the questions cover
Every question comes from the 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
Expect questions about dates, people and events from British history, the UK’s nations and capitals, festivals and traditions, sport and the arts, and how Parliament, elections and the courts work. History and modern society make up a large share. See examples in our practice questions, or try a sample mock test.
How to book the test
You book online through the official booking service, which you reach from GOV.UK, usually at least 3 days in advance, and pay £50 at the time. You choose a test centre near you. Use the same ID to book as you’ll bring on the day.
On the day
- Bring the same identification you used to book. If it doesn’t match, you can’t sit the test and won’t get a refund.
- Arrive in good time so the test centre can check your ID before you start.
- You answer the 24 questions on a computer and have 45 minutes in total.
- You’re told whether you passed before you leave, and given a unique reference number if you did.
GOV.UK has full details of what happens at the test.
How to pass first time
- Read the official handbook. It’s the only source for questions, so work through all five chapters.
- Practise every question with explanations. Learning why an answer is right helps with questions phrased differently on the day.
- Sit timed mock tests. 24 questions in 45 minutes leaves under two minutes each; practising under time pressure removes the surprise.
- Revise your weakest topics. Use a topic breakdown to see where you’re losing marks; for most people it’s dates and history.
- Book when you’re consistently above 75%. Aim to pass several mocks in a row with room to spare.
Life in the UK Prep does all of this in one app: 280+ questions with explanations, timed mock tests in the real format, and results broken down by chapter. Once you hit the pass mark it links you straight to GOV.UK to book.
Frequently asked questions
What is the pass mark for the Life in the UK test?
You need to answer at least 18 of the 24 questions correctly, which is 75%.
How much does the Life in the UK test cost?
The test costs £50, paid when you book online. Check GOV.UK for the current fee.
What happens if I fail the Life in the UK test?
You can book the test again, but you must wait at least 7 days and pay the fee again. There's no limit on how many times you can take it.
Does a Life in the UK test pass expire?
No. Once you pass, you don't need to take the test again, for example when you later apply for citizenship after ILR. Keep the unique reference number you're given.
Which book is the Life in the UK test based on?
All questions come from Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents (3rd edition). You don't need any other book.
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.