Life in the UK Test Format: 24 Questions, 45 Minutes

Before you book, it helps to know exactly what happens in the test room. The Life in the UK test format has stayed consistent: 24 questions, 45 minutes, computer-based, multiple choice.

The basics

• 24 questions drawn from the official handbook
• 45 minutes on the clock — plenty of time if you know the material
• Multiple choice — usually four options per question
• Some questions ask you to select more than one answer ("select all that apply")
• Pass mark: 75% — you need at least 18 correct
• Results immediately — you find out pass or fail at the end

Question types

Most questions are standard multiple choice: one correct answer from four options.

A smaller number are multiple-response — you must select every correct answer. These are marked wrong if you miss one or pick an extra option. Read the instruction on each question carefully.

Topics span all five handbook chapters. You might get a question about Magna Carta, then one about bank holidays, then one about how MPs are elected — in any order.

Timing strategy

45 minutes for 24 questions works out to under 2 minutes per question on average. Most candidates finish with time to spare.

A sensible approach:

1. Answer questions you are confident about first
2. Flag or note uncertain ones and return to them
3. Never leave a question blank — there is no penalty for guessing
4. Double-check "select all that apply" questions before submitting

What you cannot do

• Use notes, books, or your phone
• Ask the invigilator for help with answers
• Pause the timer or leave and return

The environment is quiet and supervised. Treat your mock exams the same way — no looking up answers mid-test.

How mock exams help

Timed practice under exam conditions is the closest thing to the real experience. UK Companion's exam mode uses 24 questions and a 45-minute timer to match the official format.

Try free practice questions on the web first, then download the app for full timed mock exams.