British Citizenship: Life in the UK Test and English Requirement
To naturalise as a British citizen, most applicants aged 18 to 64 must show knowledge of life in the UK and English language ability. Many people meet both when they get indefinite leave to remain, but it is worth checking before you apply.
The Life in the UK test
The test is booked online through GOV.UK and costs £50
It has 24 multiple-choice questions and lasts 45 minutes
You need to answer at least 18 questions correctly to pass
You only need to pass once; a pass used for settlement also counts for citizenship
Bring the same identity document you used to book the test. Your unique reference number is needed for your citizenship application.
The English language requirement
You must show English at CEFR level B1 in speaking and listening. You can usually meet this in one of these ways:
A pass in an approved Secure English Language Test at B1 or above
A degree taught or researched in English, with confirmation where required
Nationality of a majority English-speaking country
If you already proved English at B1 or above for your settlement application, that evidence can often be relied on again.
Exemptions
Applicants aged 65 or over, and those with a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents them from meeting the requirement, may be exempt. Medical exemptions need a completed form from a doctor.
How we can help
Waltham Law Chambers can check your eligibility and evidence and prepare a straightforward naturalisation application. We do not guarantee outcomes.
This article is general information as at October 2026 and is not advice on your circumstances.
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