Information: Who has to Take the British Citizenship Test

Individuals who are looking to become a British citizen now must pass the UK citizenship test. The purpose of the test is meant to evaluate one's knowledge of British government, customs, life, society and history. There are 24 multiple-answer questions that have to be answered in 45 minutes.

Who has to take the test?

You will have to take the test in any one of the following scenarios:

  • You have applied for naturalization as a British citizen
  • You are seeking settlement or indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
  • Your level of English is at least ESOL Entry 3. In Scotland you need to reach at least Intermediate Level 1.

These categories include HSMP or Highly Skilled Migrant Programme visa holders who are applying for citizenship.

Know your ESOL level

As stated above you need to reach at least ESOL Entry 3 (or Scottish Intermediate Level 1). To know your level, you can visit any further education college in your locality or a Learndirect Centre. In case your level of English is lower than these stipulated levels, you must enroll in any local further education or community colleges for citizenship classes and ESOL classes to improve your level.

Exceptions

While most people are required to take the Life in The UK Test for citizenship or settlement in the UK, there are some exemptions.

  • For Age: Applicants below 18 and above 65 years of age are exempt from taking the Life in The UK Test. However, a passport or a birth certificate must be attached with the application.
  • For disability: Applicants suffering from illness or disability are exempted if:

    • - The illness or disability is long-term and affects the applicant's mobility to the extent that attending language classes becomes impossible.
    - The applicant is suffering from a mental impairment that stops him or her from learning a language.
  • Immigration categories: Certain immigrant categories are exempted the test if they are seeking settlement (but not citizenship). These include dependent relatives, bereaved partners, refugees, people under protection or discretionary leave.