Life in the UK Test format, and what happens on the day
Facts checked on GOV.UK on 3 October 2026.
The test format
- Questions: 24 multiple-choice questions.
- Time: 45 minutes.
- How: on a computer, at a test centre.
- Subjects: the questions come only from the handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents. They are about British traditions and customs.
- Pass mark: 75% or more. That is 18 correct answers out of 24.
- Language: at a test centre in Wales, you can take the test in Welsh. In Scotland, you can take it in Scottish Gaelic.
Sources: What happens at the test and the caseworker guidance on the test format.
What to bring
On the day, show the ID that you booked with. It must be the original document. The test centre does not accept a photocopy or a screenshot.
Without the right ID, you cannot sit the test. You also lose the £50 fee.
At the test centre
- Staff take your photo to confirm who you are. If you say no to the photo, you cannot take the test, and you get no refund.
- You cannot bring your children or other family members into the centre (What happens at the test). Plan child care before the day.
- If you are late, you cannot ask for a refund (Cancellations, refunds and complaints).
After the test
You get your result on the day of the test. Since 17 December 2019, you also get an email with a unique reference number, for a pass or a fail (caseworker guidance).
If you pass, keep the unique reference number safe. You put it on your application for settlement or citizenship. The Home Office uses it to check your result.
If you fail, you can book the test again. See what happens if you fail.
If you need help on the day
When you book, you can ask for help that you need because of a disability. For example, you can ask for extra equipment, or for help to get into the centre (Book the Life in the UK Test).
Get ready for the format
Mock tests with 24 questions and a 45-minute timer are good practice for the real format. They show you how fast you must work: a bit less than 2 minutes for each question.