2026 edition
Life in the UK Test study guide
A practical preparation plan for the Life in the UK Test, based on publicly available official study material.
Exam questions
24
Passing score
75%
Time limit
45 min
Practice questions
57
Test overview
The Life in the UK Test is part of the settlement or naturalisation process for many applicants in the United Kingdom. It checks your knowledge of British life, history and institutions.
The test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions answered on a computer within 45 minutes, and you need 75% to pass, according to the official format at our last review.
Every question comes from the official handbook, which makes structured practice very effective. Rules and fees change over time, so confirm details on GOV.UK before booking your test.
How the test works
- You book the test online through the official service and pay a fee.
- You answer 24 multiple-choice questions on a computer at an approved test centre.
- You have 45 minutes, and you need at least 18 correct answers (75%) to pass.
- If you fail, you can rebook and retake the test after paying again; there is no limit on attempts.
What to study
The exam draws on the topics below. Practise each one separately, then combine them in a full test.
British History
Key events from the Middle Ages through the Industrial Revolution to modern Britain.
21 practice questions available
Government & Law
Parliament, elections, the courts and the principles of British law.
15 practice questions available
Geography
The four countries of the UK, capitals, mountains and landmarks.
3 practice questions available
Traditions & Culture
Festivals, sports, literature and the traditions of the United Kingdom.
14 practice questions available
Everyday Life
Public services, daily life and modern British society.
4 practice questions available
Study strategy
- Read the official handbook fully once, then revise chapter by chapter using topic practice here.
- History carries many questions, so give extra time to dates, monarchs and key events.
- Learn numbers cold: years, percentages of questions and lengths of terms are easy marks.
- Use flashcards for patron saints, national days and cultural facts that are easy to mix up.
- Sit full 45-minute mock exams until you comfortably clear 75% every time.
- Review every wrong answer immediately and note the pattern behind your mistakes.
Start practicing
Put the plan into action with free practice and mock tests.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the Life in the UK Test?
The test has 24 multiple-choice questions, according to the official format at our last review. You always confirm current details on GOV.UK before booking.
What is the pass mark for the Life in the UK Test?
You need to answer at least 18 of the 24 questions correctly, which is 75%, based on the official format at the time of our last review.
How long does the Life in the UK Test take?
You are given 45 minutes to complete the 24 questions, as described in official guidance at our last review.
What should I study for the Life in the UK Test?
All questions come from the official Life in the United Kingdom handbook, which covers British history, government and law, everyday life, traditions and culture.
Where can I find the official handbook?
The official handbook and test booking information are available via GOV.UK. We link to the official source from every page so you can verify anything you read here.