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Legal Developments in The Legal 500 UK 2020

Life in the UK Test Top 10 Questions

November 2019 - Immigration. Legal Developments by Richmond Chambers.

More articles by this firm.

Here are the top 10 questions that our clients ask us about the Life in the UK test.

What is the Life in the UK test?

A requirement of your indefinite leave to remain and citizenship application will be to demonstrate sufficient knowledge about life in the United Kingdom in accordance with the requirements of the Immigration Rules.  In order to satisfy this requirement you will need to take and pass the Life in the UK test.

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;
  • are 65 or over;
  • have passed it before, many will have already completed the test when they applied to settle in the UK;  or
  • have a long-term physical or mental condition.

The individual must be suffering from a long-term illness or disability that severely restricts their ability to prepare for the test. They must provide either a form or a letter from a Doctor confirming the condition. 

Which Life in the UK tests are accepted by the Home Office?

In order to meet the Life in the UK requirement, you must have successfully completed the Life in the UK test at a test centre in the UK. The test must be booked through the official government website. This is the only official government service for booking the test. The cost of the test is £50.

What is the format of the Life in the UK test?

It is a computer based test which lasts 45 minutes. There are 24 multiple choice questions and you must score 75% or more to pass the test. The test covers a number of topics including local customs and traditions, history of the United Kingdom and the laws and political systems that govern the country. 

What is the Life in the UK test handbook?

The Life in the UK test is based on the official Life in the UK  handbook – the Life in the United Kingdom A Guide For New Residents written by Home Office. It can be purchased here. The handbook contains learning materials which may be of assistance in passing the test.

How do I book the Life in the UK test?

The test must be booked online at least 3 days in advance. In order to book the test you will need: 

  • Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). If you do not have a valid BRP, you can use your passport. Other acceptable forms of photo ID.
  • Details of your address and postcode
  • A debit or credit card
  • Your email address
  • Details of any special requests you have

What documents do I need to take the Life in the UK test?

A list of the identification requirements for the Life in the UK test is published on the government website. The document you present on the day of the test to confirm your identification must be the same document you used to register and book the test. The details used to book the test must be as stated on the document you provide.

If your document is being held by the Home Office you may be able to request the return of your document in order for you to be able to take the test. 

How do I prove I have passed the Life in the UK test? 

You will receive your results at the end of the test. If you pass the Life in the UK test you will receive a pass notification letter which is signed and stamped by the test supervisor. Once you have passed the test, it will not expire

From 01 October 2019, you are no longer required to provide this pass notification letter with your application. Instead, you must provide a unique reference number in the form of their 7 digit ‘Test instance ID’. 

If you fail the test, you will receive a results notification letter which explains the areas in which you need more practice. 

What happens if I cannot attend the test?

If you are unable to attend a test you must cancel it. You will receive a refund if you cancel the test at least 3 days before you are due to undertake the test. In order to cancel the test, sign into your Life in the UK account, select confirmed tests and then select cancel tests. 

Can I request a refund? 

You will only be able to request a refund if the Test Centre cancels the test. You must apply for a refund within 3 months of the test using the Refund Request Form. This should be sent by post to:

PSI e-Assessment 

PO BOX 10678

Leicester

LE1 8EY

You will not be able to request a refund for any other reason including if you are sick, do not bring the correct identification or documents required to take the test. 

Contact Our Immigration Barristers

For expert advice and assistance with a settlement or nationality application contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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