Free Practice Tool
Free Life in the UK Test Practice 2026
Prepare for your Life in the UK test with a full 24-question mock test, timed under real exam conditions. Get instant scoring, chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, and explanations for every wrong answer. Essential preparation for indefinite leave to remain and British citizenship.
Sample Practice Questions
Here are three example questions from the official Life in the UK test. The full practice tool includes 24 randomised questions covering all chapters of the handbook.
Question 1 of 24
What is the name of the currency used in the UK?
Question 2 of 24
In which year did the UK join the European Economic Community?
Question 3 of 24
How many questions are in the Life in the UK test?
The full practice test includes 24 randomised questions across all chapters. Sign up for free to access the complete mock test.
What You Get with the Full Practice Test
Everything you need to pass the Life in the UK test on your first attempt. Ideal preparation for indefinite leave to remain and British citizenship applications.
24 Randomised Questions
Every practice session draws questions at random, just like the real test. No two sessions are the same.
45-Minute Timer
Practice under real exam conditions with a countdown timer that mirrors the official test format.
Chapter Breakdown
See which chapters you are weakest on so you can focus your revision where it matters most.
Instant Scoring
Get your score immediately after each session, along with the pass or fail result based on the 18/24 threshold.
Explanations for Wrong Answers
Every incorrect answer comes with a clear explanation so you understand the right answer, not just memorise it.
Unlimited Practice
Take as many practice tests as you like. Track your progress over time and build confidence before the real test.
About the Life in the UK Test
The Life in the UK test is a requirement for most people applying for indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship. It tests your knowledge of British history, culture, society, and values, based on the official handbook Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents. Passing the test is a key step in the journey to indefinite leave to remain and settlement in the UK.
The test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 45 minutes. To pass, you need to answer at least 18 questions correctly, which is a pass mark of 75%. Each question has four possible answers and only one is correct. Questions are drawn at random from a large bank, so each sitting is different.
What the Test Covers
The Life in the UK test covers five main topic areas from the official handbook. These are: The Values and Principles of the UK; What is the UK?; A Long and Illustrious History; A Modern, Thriving Society; and The UK Government, the Law and Your Role. Preparing for indefinite leave to remain means understanding all five areas thoroughly, as questions can come from any chapter.
History questions cover topics such as the Roman conquest, the Middle Ages, the British Empire, the World Wars, and recent decades. Civics questions cover Parliament, the electoral system, the role of the monarch, devolution, and local government. Society questions cover education, the NHS, housing, transport, and cultural events. All of this content is relevant to life in the UK and to the indefinite leave to remain application process.
How to Prepare for the Life in the UK Test
The most effective way to prepare is to read the official handbook cover to cover and then practise with mock tests. Our free practice tool replicates the real test format exactly: 24 questions, 45-minute timer, and immediate scoring. After each session, you can see which chapters you are weakest on and focus your revision accordingly. For anyone on the path to indefinite leave to remain, starting practice early is strongly recommended.
Most candidates study for two to four weeks before the test. Reading the handbook once gives you a strong foundation. Practising with timed mock tests builds confidence and helps you get used to the question format. Reviewing explanations for questions you get wrong is particularly effective for filling knowledge gaps.
Booking the Test
You can book the Life in the UK test online through the official government website at gov.uk. The test costs £50 per sitting. There are over 30 approved test centres across the UK, from London and Manchester to Edinburgh and Cardiff. You must book at least three days in advance. On the day, you need to bring valid photo ID (passport or biometric residence permit). The test is delivered on a computer and your result is shown immediately on screen.
If you are applying for indefinite leave to remain, you will need to include your Life in the UK test pass letter with your application. Keep the original letter safe, as it does not expire and can be used for future applications, including British citizenship. If you need to apply for indefinite leave to remain again in the future, you do not need to retake the test.
Who Is Exempt from the Test
Not everyone is required to take the Life in the UK test when applying for indefinite leave to remain or citizenship. Children under 18 are automatically exempt. People aged 65 and over at the time of application do not need to take the test. Applicants with a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents them from meeting the English language and knowledge of life requirements may also apply for an exemption, supported by medical evidence from a qualified doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are in the Life in the UK test?
The official Life in the UK test contains 24 multiple-choice questions. The questions are drawn from the official handbook 'Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents'. You have 45 minutes to complete the test.
What is the pass mark for the Life in the UK test?
You need to answer at least 18 out of 24 questions correctly to pass, which is 75%. If you score 17 or below, you fail and must retake the test. You can retake as many times as needed, but each attempt costs £50.
How long is the Life in the UK test certificate valid?
Your Life in the UK test pass certificate does not expire. Once you pass, the certificate is valid indefinitely and can be used for any future immigration application, including indefinite leave to remain and British citizenship.
Can I take the Life in the UK test online?
No. The Life in the UK test must be taken in person at an approved test centre. You cannot take it online. There are over 30 approved test centres across the UK. You must bring valid photo identification (passport or biometric residence permit) to your appointment.
Who is exempt from the Life in the UK test?
You do not need to take the Life in the UK test if you are under 18 or aged 65 or over when you apply for indefinite leave to remain or citizenship. People with certain long-term physical or mental conditions that prevent them from meeting the requirement may also be exempt with supporting medical evidence.