Short answer: the Life in the UK Test has 24 questions. You have 45 minutes and must get at least 18 right (75%) to pass. It costs £50 per attempt, you can retake it as often as you need after 7 days, and a pass never expires.
The numbers at a glance
| Questions | 24, multiple choice |
|---|---|
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Pass mark | 18 of 24 (75%) |
| Fee | £50 per attempt |
| Source material | Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents, 3rd edition |
| Where | On a computer at one of 30+ approved test centres in the UK |
| Retakes | Unlimited; rebook after 7 days, £50 each time |
| Validity | A pass does not expire and covers both settlement and citizenship |
| Who is exempt | Under 18, 65 and over, or a long-term physical or mental condition confirmed by a doctor |
What kinds of questions are they?
Every question is based on the official handbook. Most ask you to pick one correct answer from four; some ask you to pick two correct answers, and some are true-or-false. The 24 questions are drawn from all five chapters of the handbook, so you cannot pass by studying one chapter. The history chapter is the longest and produces the most questions. The real questions are not published, but practice questions written from the handbook, like ours, cover the same facts: see our Life in the UK questions and answers and the Life in the UK practice test.
How many can I get wrong?
Six. Eighteen correct is the pass mark, so you can miss up to six of the 24. There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so always answer every question. You get your result at the test centre on the day; a pass gives you a unique reference number for your settlement or citizenship application.
How long does it take?
You have 45 minutes, but most people finish in 15 to 25. You can flag questions and return to them before you submit. Arrive early: ID checks take time, and the booking details must match your ID exactly or you will be turned away and lose the fee.
How many times can I take it?
As many times as you need. There is no limit on attempts, but you must wait at least 7 days between tests and pay £50 each time. Our guide on what happens if you fail a citizenship test compares the rules across countries.
Is the Life in the UK Test changing?
The 2025 immigration white paper said the test will be refreshed, but as of October 2026 no new handbook, question count or start date has been announced. Until then the 24-question, 45-minute format and the 3rd edition handbook apply. Check GOV.UK before you book.
Related guides
Life in the UK Test: format, pass mark, cost and how to pass · Who is exempt from the citizenship test? · Citizenship test pass marks compared
Official source
GOV.UK, Life in the UK Test (gov.uk/life-in-the-uk-test).
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