ILR · indefinite leave to remain
Settlement applicants usually need to pass the same handbook test as citizenship candidates. Know you are ready before you book your test centre slot.
Two separate requirements for most citizenship and ILR routes — we help with the handbook test.
24 multiple-choice questions on British values, history, and government — based on the official handbook.
Most citizenship and ILR routes also require proof of English at B1 speaking and listening level — this is separate from the Life in the UK test.
This is what makes settlement different from citizenship: you are working to someone else's deadline. A failed attempt costs a week and £50, and a week you do not have is the expensive kind.
3 months out
The history chapter alone spans two thousand years. Most people need several weeks, and starting early is the only real protection against a resit.
6–8 weeks out
Booking early leaves room for a second attempt without drama. Test centre availability varies by area and is not guaranteed at short notice.
4–6 weeks out
Your English evidence, proof of continuous residence and financial documents. Run this in parallel with revision rather than after it.
Before expiry
Submit while your current leave is still valid. Letting a visa lapse creates problems well beyond a delayed application.
24 questions per round with instant feedback and a 75% pass tracker — no signup.
Timed 45-minute mock tests that match the official format.
Structured summaries across all 5 handbook chapters, with chapter-by-chapter practice.
Mistake review, streaks, and charts so you know when you are ready to book.
24
Questions
per official test
45 min
Time limit
at the test centre
75%
Pass mark
18 of 24 correct
£50
Retake cost
if you fail
Most people aged 18–65 applying for indefinite leave to remain must pass. Exemptions apply for some ages and for long-term medical conditions — verify on GOV.UK for your specific route.
You must wait seven days before retaking, and pay the £50 again. There is no limit on attempts, but there is a limit on your leave — which is why booking six to eight weeks out matters more for settlement applicants than for anyone else.
No. Spouse route, Skilled Worker, long residence — it is the same handbook, the same 24 questions and the same 75%. What differs between routes is the other evidence you need, not the test.
Yes. The format, handbook, pass mark, and test centres are the same. A valid pass certificate can be used for both ILR and later citizenship applications within its validity period.
You typically need the pass certificate when you submit your ILR application. Plan backwards from your visa expiry — allow time to study, pass, and gather other documents.
Many ILR routes require English at B1 speaking and listening, which is separate from the Life in the UK test. UK Companion prepares you for the handbook test only.
Yes. Free 24-question rounds with instant feedback are available on this site. The app adds timed exam mode, chapter practice, study notes, and translations.
Check current GOV.UK rules — validity periods can affect when you apply. If your certificate expires, you may need to retake the test.
Citizenship and ILR usually require both B1 English and the Life in the UK test. They are different exams with different rules — here is what each covers, who is exempt, and how to plan for both.
Applying for indefinite leave to remain? The Life in the UK test is required on most routes. How to time it around your visa expiry, what happens if you fail, and why you only sit it once.
See if you are above the 75% line before booking. Download the app for exam mode and full study tools.
UK Companion