Life in the UK Test: A Quick Guide for ILR Applicants
A short overview of the Life in the UK test — what it is, what to study, and how to book.
Alongside absence requirements, most ILR and citizenship applicants must pass the Life in the UK test. It’s a multiple-choice exam that covers British history, traditions, and everyday life.
The basics
- Format: 24 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Pass mark: 18 out of 24 (75%)
- Fee: £50
You take the test at an official test centre — there are around 30 across the UK.
What’s on the test?
The official study guide is “Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents”. Topics include:
- British history from Stone Age to modern times
- Traditions and festivals
- Government and the legal system
- The UK today (population, languages, regions)
- Everyday life and responsibilities
How hard is it?
It’s not a deeply technical exam, but it does require memorising specific dates, names, and facts. Many of these will not be general knowledge — even for people born in the UK.
Preparation tips
- Buy the official handbook — don’t rely on unofficial summaries
- Take practice tests — there are free ones online
- Focus on weak areas — history tends to be hardest for most people
- Allow 2-4 weeks of study for most applicants
Exemptions
You may be exempt from the test if:
- You’re under 18 or over 65
- You have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents you from taking it
When to take the test
You only need to pass once — your certificate can be used for both ILR and (later) citizenship. Many applicants take the test 3-6 months before their planned ILR application.
Don’t leave it until the last minute. Test centre availability can be limited, especially in popular cities.
Along with absences
Absence tracking and the Life in the UK test are two parallel strands of ILR preparation. Get on top of both early.
awayfrom.uk takes care of the absence side. For the test, the Home Office website has official information on booking.