Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Side by side
The Form AN guidance says the language requirement is separate from the Life in the UK requirement and you must meet both. Appendix KoLL also sets them as two parts for ILR.
| English language requirement | Life in the UK test | |
|---|---|---|
| What it shows | B1 speaking and listening (B2 for most ILR from 26 March 2027) | Knowledge of British traditions and customs |
| How | Approved SELT, degree taught in English, or majority English-speaking nationality | 24 questions in 45 minutes, pass mark 75% |
| Cost | Set by the SELT provider | £50 |
| Where | Approved SELT centres, in or outside the UK | Over 30 centres in the UK |
| Reference | SELT unique reference number | Life in the UK unique reference number |
Exemptions are not the same
Being a national of a majority English-speaking country covers only the language part: you still pass the Life in the UK test (caseworker guidance). A degree taught in English also covers only English.
You do not need the Life in the UK test if you are under 18, 65 or over, have passed it before, or have a long-term physical or mental condition with the exemption form or a doctor's letter (gov.uk).
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Booking the Life in the UK test
Book online at least 3 days ahead. Questions come from the official Guide for New Residents. If you fail, you can rebook as many times as you need, paying each time (gov.uk).
Frequently asked questions
Does passing the Life in the UK test prove my English?+
No. Form AN guidance says the language requirement is separate and you must meet both.
I am American. Do I need the Life in the UK test?+
Yes. US nationals meet the English part automatically but must still pass the Life in the UK test.
Which should I take first?+
Either order works. You need both results (or exemptions) before you apply for ILR or citizenship.
Do I need the Life in the UK test again for citizenship?+
No, if you passed it before, for example for your settlement application.
Keep reading
Related
- English level for ILR and British citizenship
- Where to find your SELT reference number
- IELTS Life Skills A1, A2 and B1
- The approved UK SELT list
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy