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To be able to gain citizenship in the UK, or even gain settlement through Indefinite Leave to Remain, there are several requirements you must meet. One of the most difficult requirements to fulfil is passing the Life in the UK test.
If you are reading this guide, then it is likely that you are researching the test before you take it. Read to the end to find out all of the important information that you should know about the Life in the UK test, including how to book it, and what you need to know to pass it.
How to book the Life in the UK test
To book the Life in the UK test, you will have to use the Government’s dedicated webpage for bookings. There is no other website that lets you book the test, so you should not believe any other website that says you can book it there.
You can choose from 30 locations across the UK for your test appointment.
When you go through the booking process, you will need the following:
- Debit or credit card
- Accepted ID (driver’s licence, passport, valid travel document, biometric residence permit, etc.)
- Email address
The test will cost you £50 to book. You cannot book the test any earlier than three days in the future. If you book the test for a Sunday, it will cost an extra £15.
However, you can also pay an extra £15 for a short notice test that is within the next 24 to 72 hours. If this falls upon on a Sunday, then you will only have to pay the extra £15 once. You will not need to pay £30.
What does the test involve?
When you do the test for Life in the UK, you will have to answer 24 questions within 45 minutes.
The questions you have to answer will be about British history, culture, and traditions. Many of the questions and related information are included in the official practice book, and official study guide book.
You will need to get a score of 75% to pass the test. If you do not pass the test, you can take it again as many times as you need; however, you will need to pay for each individual test you do. Though you do not need to worry about failing as you can just retake the test, it would be best to ensure that you pass first time, or it will end up being costly for your bank account.
Please note that you must attend the test by yourself; you cannot bring family members or friends with you.
What do I get when I pass the test?
When you pass the Life in the UK test, you will be given a ‘unique reference number’, which replaced the older ‘test reference ID’ in December 2019.
You will need to provide your unique reference number when you apply for either Indefinite Leave to Remain, or to naturalise as a British citizen. This is so that the Home Office can check that you have passed.
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Life in the UK test FAQ
If I have done the test to get ILR, do I need to do it for British citizenship?
No, you do not need to do the test again if you have previously passed the test to get ILR. Your result will last forever, so you can use it to apply for British citizenship whenever you are ready to do so.
Do I need to do the test if I am on the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)?
Yes, you will still need to do the Life in the UK test if you are settled on the EUSS, and want to naturalise as a British citizen.
Can I be exempt from the Life in the UK test?
There are some specific circumstances that can lead to you being exempt from having to do the Life in the UK test at all. For example, if you are under 18, over 65, or have a medical issue.
Can the test be cancelled or rearranged?
Yes, you can cancel or rearrange the test if you can no longer attend it. If you cancel at least 72 hours (three days) before your test is due to take place, you will get a full refund. However, if you cancel within three days of the test, you will not get a refund.
Note that you cannot ask for a refund if you take the wrong ID, turned up late, did not have the right documents, or refused to have your photo taken.
If I have a complaint about the test, who do I call?
If you want to make a complaint, you can contact PSI Exams by either email at complaints@lituk.psionline.com or by phone at 0800 015 4245. They are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm. You must complain within three months of your test date.
They will take up to 10 working days to respond.
How we can help
Whilst we cannot directly help you with your Life in the UK test, we can help you with applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain and Naturalisation.
Our expert immigration law team has helped countless clients with their needs, and they can help you too.
You can arrange a free 10-minute assessment with one of our team members to discuss what you need help with. If they decide that it is possible for them to help you, then you can book a longer, paid consultation that lasts either 30 minutes, or an hour. The longer consultation is where you will be given advice on what to do.
The team member that you initially talk to will act as your caseworker, and will be there to answer any questions that you may have, and put your mind at ease.
Get in touch with us today if you want our help with ILR or citizenship
Ready for assistance?
If you have any questions, or want to book an appointment with one of our legal experts, contact Woodcock Law today. Call us on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or email info@woodcocklaw.co.uk.
