Who Must Take the Life in the UK Test (and Who Is Exempt)

Most people applying for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) or British citizenship must pass the Life in the UK test as part of the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK (KoLL) requirement, together with a separate English language requirement.

You are usually exempt if:

• You are under 18 or 65 or over.
• You have a long-term physical or mental condition that prevents you from taking the test or learning English — you will need to provide evidence (a completed exemption form from a medical professional).
• You have already passed the test for an earlier application — a pass never expires and never needs retaking.

Good to know

• Citizens of majority English-speaking countries (such as Australia or Canada) are usually exempt from the English language requirement — but they must still pass the Life in the UK test.
• A degree taught or researched in English can meet the English language part; it does not replace the test.
• In Wales the test can be taken in Welsh, and in Scotland in Scottish Gaelic, if requested when booking.

Exemption rules can change and depend on your application route — always confirm your position on GOV.UK before booking.