Life in the UK Test

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Questions about the ‘Life in the UK’ test have been asked on multiple occasions during our engagement with Hong Kong British Nationals Overseas Visa holders. Please find below information on the test, and how you can prepare for it.

What is Life in the UK Test?

Life in the UK Test is one of the requirements people, who wish to apply for British citizenship or settlement in the UK. You’ll have 45 minutes to answer 24 questions about British traditions and customs.

You do not need to take the test if you:

  • are under 18
  • are 65 or over
  • have passed it before – for example, if you’re applying to become a citizen and already passed it as part of your settlement application
  • have a long-term physical or mental condition – you must provide either a form or letter from a doctor confirming your physical or mental condition

Preparing for the test

You’ll be tested on information in the official handbook for the Life in the UK Test. You should study it to prepare for the test. The handbook is available as a book, an eBook, an e-Learning subscription or in audio formats.

Booking the Test

You will have to book your test at least 3 days in advance. It costs £50. There are over 30 test centres in the UK. You can choose where to take your test when you book. You will have to book your test online, on the government’s website. You will need an email address, a recognised form of ID, and a debit/credit card.

Passing the Test

You must score 75% or more to pass the test. You’ll get a ‘unique reference number’. You’ll need this number to complete your citizenship or settlement application. The Home Office will use it to check that you’ve passed.

If you fail, you must wait 7 days before taking the test again, but you can take the test as many times as you need to. You need to book and pay again each time.