Jump to a section
The test itself
What is the Life in the UK Test?
A computer-based multiple-choice test used as part of applying for indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship in the UK. It checks knowledge of British history, traditions, government and everyday life. See our full Test Guide for the complete breakdown.
How many questions are there?
24 multiple-choice questions, each with four possible answers.
How long do I have?
45 minutes for all 24 questions.
What score do I need to pass?
18 out of 24 correct — a 75% pass mark. 17 or fewer means you don't pass that sitting.
Is this website the official test?
No. This is an independent practice and study resource, not affiliated with the UK Home Office, GOV.UK, or the official test provider. Always confirm current official requirements at gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test.
Booking and cost
How do I book the official test?
Through the official GOV.UK booking system, choosing a registered test centre and available time slot near you.
How much does it cost?
The government sets and periodically changes the fee. We don't quote a figure here because it can go out of date — check the current fee on GOV.UK before booking.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as practical. Popular test centres and convenient time slots can fill up, especially close to application deadlines.
Can I change my booking?
Rescheduling and cancellation policies are set by the official booking system — check the terms shown at the time of booking.
On the day
What identification do I need?
Valid, acceptable photo ID and proof of address, exactly as listed in your booking confirmation. Requirements are strict, so read your confirmation email carefully rather than assuming.
What happens when I arrive?
Your identity is checked, you're seated at a computer terminal, and the test is taken on-screen with an automatic timer.
How soon will I get my result?
Typically very shortly after finishing the test, though exact timing can vary by test centre.
Can I use notes or a calculator?
No. It's a closed-book test — no notes, phones, or other aids are permitted in the test room.
If you don't pass
What happens if I fail?
You can book and sit the test again. There's no cap on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires a new booking and fee.
Is there a minimum wait before retaking it?
Booking systems sometimes impose a short minimum gap between attempts — check the current rule when you book your retake.
Does a failed attempt affect my application?
The test itself is simply retaken; check current guidance on how failed attempts interact with your specific application timeline.
After passing
What do I get when I pass?
A pass notification letter, which forms part of the evidence for your wider settlement or citizenship application.
Do I need to keep the pass letter?
Yes — keep it safe, as you may be asked to provide it later in your application.
Does the pass ever expire?
Check current guidance, as validity periods and how they interact with different application types can change.
Exemptions and special circumstances
Is anyone exempt from the test?
Some applicants are exempt based on factors like age, certain visa categories, or a recognised long-term physical or mental condition — exemption criteria are specific and change over time, so check GOV.UK directly rather than assuming.
What if I have a disability that affects my ability to sit the test?
Reasonable adjustments may be available at test centres — this is arranged directly with the official booking system, not through this website.
Does age affect whether I need to take it?
Age-based rules exist and can change — confirm current age thresholds on GOV.UK.
Studying and revision
What should I actually study?
The official government handbook is the source material the real test draws from — there's no substitute for reading it. This site's Study Centre and practice tests are designed to reinforce that material with structure and repetition, not replace it.
Are your practice questions the real test questions?
No, and no legitimate site can honestly claim that. Our questions are original, written for revision purposes, covering the same syllabus areas the real test draws from.
How many practice tests should I do?
Enough to consistently score 18/24 or higher across several different tests, not just once. A single good result can be luck; several in a row is preparation.
Is timed practice actually necessary?
It helps more than people expect — candidates who've never practised under the 45-minute limit sometimes lose time early and rush later questions.
This website
Is it really free?
Yes. Every practice test, study lesson, and knowledge bank entry is free, with no account or sign-up required.
Do I need to create an account?
No. Your progress, scores, and weak areas are saved locally in your own browser — not on our servers, and not tied to any account.
What happens if I clear my browser data?
Your locally saved progress will be lost, since nothing is stored anywhere else. You can keep using the site immediately — it just starts tracking fresh.
Do you use cookies?
Only if you accept them for advertising/analytics, which is optional and asked separately from the core site functioning. See our Cookie notice for detail.
Can I suggest a correction if I spot an error?
Yes — see our Editorial Policy for how content accuracy is handled.