Life in the UK Test and English Language Requirements (2025 Guide)

Preparing for the final step in your UK journey

When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, two key requirements often cause confusion: the Life in the UK Test and the English language requirement.

Both are designed to ensure that applicants understand the UK’s culture, history, and language — important aspects of becoming a permanent member of British society.

This 2025 guide explains what each requirement involves, who needs to meet them, and how to prepare successfully.

Who this guide is for

This guide is for:

• Applicants preparing for ILR or British citizenship
• Spouse, Skilled Worker, or Long Residence visa holders
• Graduates and professionals planning to settle permanently in the UK

If you’re about to apply for ILR or citizenship, understanding these tests early will help you prepare confidently.

What is the Life in the UK Test?

The Life in the UK Test is a computer-based exam that assesses your knowledge of British culture, history, laws, and society. It is a mandatory requirement for most ILR and citizenship applicants.

Key facts:

• The test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions
• You must score at least 75% (18 correct answers) to pass
• The test costs £50
• It takes place at an approved UK test centre

The questions cover topics such as:

• British history and government
• Everyday life and traditions
• Values and responsibilities of UK residents

You can prepare using the official Life in the UK Handbook and online practice tests.

Who needs to take the test

You must take the Life in the UK Test if you are applying for:

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
• British citizenship

You are exempt if you:

• Are under 18 or over 65
• Have a long-term physical or mental condition preventing you from taking the test (with medical evidence)

What is the English language requirement?

The English language requirement ensures applicants can communicate effectively in everyday life and understand English at a practical level.

You usually need to show English proficiency at B1 level or higher, following the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

How to meet the requirement

You can prove your English language ability in one of the following ways:

1. English language test:
   • Pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider such as IELTS for UKVI, Trinity College London, or LanguageCert.
   • The test must include both speaking and listening components.
2. UK degree or qualification:
   • If you completed a degree in the UK, you automatically meet the English requirement.
3. Degree taught in English overseas:
   • You can use a degree from another country if it was taught in English and verified by UK ENIC.

Who is exempt

You don’t need to prove your English ability if you:

• Are under 18 or over 65
• Have a medical condition preventing you from meeting the requirement
• Are a national of a majority English-speaking country, such as the USA, Canada, or Australia

Step-by-step: How to prepare for both tests

Step 1: Check if you need to take them

Confirm whether you are exempt due to age, health, or qualification.

Step 2: Book the Life in the UK Test

• Visit the official gov.uk website to book your test.
• Choose your nearest test centre and bring photo ID on the day.

Step 3: Take the English language test (if required)

• Choose an approved SELT provider.
• Select a B1 (Intermediate) level test for ILR or citizenship.

Step 4: Keep your certificates safe

Both certificates are required for ILR and later for citizenship. You may reuse the same certificates if still valid.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using unapproved test providers

Only tests from approved UKVI providers are accepted. Always book through official links on the gov.uk site.

Losing certificates

You’ll need your pass certificates for both ILR and citizenship applications. Keep them safe and make copies.

Booking the wrong level test

Some applicants mistakenly take A2-level tests (used for visa extensions). Ensure you choose B1 or above for ILR or citizenship.

Failing to prepare

Even fluent speakers can fail the Life in the UK Test due to lack of preparation. Study the official handbook carefully.

Why these tests matter

These two requirements are more than formalities. They show that you understand British society and can communicate as part of it — key aspects of earning permanent status or citizenship.

Passing both puts you one step closer to making the UK your permanent home.

How AHJ Immigration helps you prepare

At AHJ Immigration, we guide applicants through every stage of their settlement journey, including preparation for the Life in the UK and English language requirements.

We help you:

• Understand exactly which tests you need
• Book approved test centres
• Prepare your ILR or citizenship application using your results
• Avoid delays due to missing or invalid certificates

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 to speak to our team about your ILR or citizenship requirements.

Book your consultation

Free 30-minute consultation

Get a full overview of the Life in the UK and English requirements for your visa route and learn how to prepare properly.

Book here:

Or call 0121 828 2224 to book by phone.

Paid 1-hour consultation (£120)

After your free session, book a 1-hour consultation for personal guidance. We will:

• Review your eligibility and test requirements
• Check existing qualifications or exemptions
• Provide step-by-step advice for your application

The £120 fee is deducted from your final application cost if you continue with us.

FAQs

1. Do I need to retake the Life in the UK Test for citizenship?
No. If you passed it for ILR, you can reuse the same certificate.

2. Can I take the English test before applying for ILR?
Yes. You can take it in advance as long as the certificate is valid on the date of application.

3. What is the passing score for the Life in the UK Test?
You must score at least 75%, or 18 out of 24 questions.

4. How long are test certificates valid?
Life in the UK certificates do not expire. English language certificates typically remain valid for two years.

5. Can I apply without taking either test?
Only if you are exempt by age, health, or nationality.

Our process

1. Free Consultation – Overview of ILR and citizenship requirements.
2. Paid Consultation – Review of test eligibility and document advice.
3. Gathering Documents – Templates, checklists, and consultant support.
4. Application Stage – Preparation and submission using valid test results.
5. Waiting Phase – Monitoring progress and managing updates.
6. Decision Phase – Guidance on result and next steps.

Disclaimer

Fees and requirements are always subject to change as UK immigration is ever-evolving. The information provided is correct at the time of publishing. We regularly update our guides to reflect the latest Home Office guidance.

Be ready for your ILR or citizenship application

The Life in the UK Test and English language requirement are key parts of settling permanently. With the right preparation, you can meet both easily and confidently.

📞 Call 0121 828 2224 or book your free consultation today:

After your free call, book a paid 1-hour consultation (£120) for tailored guidance — and we’ll deduct the fee from your final application cost if you continue with us.

Prepare well today, and your path to permanent status will be smooth tomorrow.