Life in the UK Mock Test, are they worth it?
By Annam on Nov 05, 2021What is Life in the UK mock Test?
Life in the UK test is a compulsory step towards getting your British Citizenship. It is a computer-based test that consists of 24 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). This test demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of UK law, government, traditions, lifestyle, and customs. It also checks whether the person has a grip on their English language and can adapt to the UK’s lifestyle.
Eligibility Criteria for taking Life in the UK Test:
If you fall in the age bracket of 18 to 65 years, you are eligible to take the life in the UK test. However, there are some exemptions. For instance, you won’t need to take the test if;
- You are under 18
- You are above 65
- You have a long term mental or physical condition (along with a letter from your physician)
- You already have passed the test in another application like for an ILR.
Who needs to take the life in the UK test?
Anyone applying for British Citizenship, who falls under the above-mentioned criteria has to take the test. Also, you have to pass the test if you are applying for Permanent residence or ILR.
What to expect at the Life in the UK test?
Life in the UK test is about 45 minutes long. The test is based on the official handbook called; “Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents 3rd Edition”. Note that, family members, as well as children, are not allowed in the test centers. Before booking the life in the UK test you will also need to know and consider the following:
- The Life in the UK test fee is £50.
- You will have to complete the test in 45 minutes.
- The test comprises 24 MCQs
- 18 out of 24 questions must be answered correctly in order to pass.
At the test center, you will also need to bring the identification documents. It will take about 15 minutes for identity checks and later 45 minutes for the actual test. After giving the test, you will have to wait at the center for the result announcement. Meaning before you leave the center, you will know exactly how you performed. In case you passed, you will be handed a passing certificate along with a ‘unique reference number’. This number is later used in the British citizenship application.
Why is the Life in the UK test important?
In 2005, life in the UK test was introduced for Naturalization. And later in 2007, it was introduced for settlement. People who wish to be British citizens and get their naturalization, have to take the Life in the UK test. This test evaluates two major things:
1. Your grip on the English Language
2. Your knowledge about UK law, traditions, and whether you can adapt to the British Lifestyle.
Life in the UK test is the ‘compulsory’ requirement for getting the British Naturalization.
Tips for Life in the UK Test:
There are various mistakes and errors made during life in the UK test. Some of the common errors include;
- Wrong first or last names (Note that, you will be asked for your last name first)
- Incorrect passport number (Some people confuse passport number and identity number)
- Putting in incorrect place of birth
- Over-stressing and panicking.
- Not being prepared enough.
In order to avoid mistakes, the following are some of the tips for life in the UK test.
- Read the questions thoroughly.
- Take life in the UK practice test questions
- Some of the questions ask for multiple right answers
- Life in the UK test questions are selected randomly in the database, making them ‘unique’ for everyone.
- You need to answer at least 18 questions out of 24, correctly.
- The official study guide is your biggest support.
Remember, practice is the key. Take as many of the life in the UK test practice questions as you can. Note that, you won’t be getting the exact same questions in the actual test.
What to do on the day of my test?
First comes preparations for the test. As mentioned, the life in the UK test is based on the official handbook. Go through the study guide, read thoroughly, and take the practice tests available online. On the day of the life in the UK test:
- Spare at least 2 and a half hours for your test day.
- Arrive at the test center at least 20 minutes before the test
- Bring the identification documents (passport, BRP, or BRC). Make sure you are bringing the documents you used to book your test.
On the unavailability of these documents, you won’t be allowed to sit in the test.
Booking the Life in the UK Test:
You can easily book life in the UK test online from the government’s official website. You will have to book your life in the UK test in advance i.e., at least 3 days. Following are the documents required for booking the test:
- Email address
- Debit or Credit card (for advance payment)
- Identification documents;
- A valid Passport
- BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)
- The UK’s Driving License
- European Union Identity Card
- Your travel documents
Note that, you will also have to bring these identification documents with you on your test day.
What if I fail the life in the UK test?
Failure is an inescapable part; you have to face it!
Yes, you can also fail the life in the UK test but don’t worry. If you fail, you can retake the test after one week (7 days). Good thing is that you can take the life in the UK test as many times as you have to. But you will also have to book and pay the fee every single time you retake the test.
What happens if I pass the test?
You will have to score at least 75 marks i.e., answering 18 questions correctly, in your test to pass it. The passing certificate comes with a unique reference number proving that you passed that test. You will know the results before you leave the test center.
Complaint Center:
If you want to report or have any complaint about anything regarding the Life in the UK test, you can directly contact via email at complaints@lituk.learndirect.com. Or you can also make a call at 0800 0154245, Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. Your complaint will be responded to in 10 working days. Note that the complaint must be made within 3 months of when the test was taken.