People who are applying for British citizenship or obtaining an indefinite leave to remain (ILR), with an ESOL 3 level now need to take the Life in the UK test. If your English is less than ESOL 3 then you can take combined English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and citizenship classes instead of taking the test.

What is the Life in the UK Test about?

The Life in the UK test questions are based on a broad range of topics from UK government , Europe, society and culture, everyday requirements in living in the UK and employment issues and rights.

The questions are based on chapters 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship. This is the official book. You only other thing you will need is practice tests. Tests take 45 minutes to answer 24 questions. You need to answer 75% of all questions correctly to pass the life in the UK Test. English is the only language used.

Always remember to take photographic ID before taking the Life in the UK test. If you have any special requirements or any medical conditions then you should state this when you book your exam. In some circumstances you may be exempt.

Step by step approach

It is very unlikely you will ever pass the Life in the UK Test without reading Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship, You will need to study the main chapters (2-6) well. Some of the information can be confusing because of the different topics. Furthermore, the law has changed in some areas, so make sure you are reading the fifth impression (June 2008).

If you fail, you will have the opportunity to apply for another test, but you will have to pay the fee. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people fail the test, about. A re-test costs around 34, so failing can be very expensive. It is advised that you join a Life in the UK test site to make sure you are fully prepared.

* Visit the UK border agency webpage for details on the exam and additional requirements (lifeintheuk.gov.uk). Make sure you meet the criteria for British citizenship.

* Book your test as it can take about two weeks and mention any special requirements you may have. Take the test before you apply for naturalisation.

* Read the official book - Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship (2007), 2nd Edition (fifth impression). This is all you need for the exam. Carry practice tests.

* When you are consistently getting 18 out of 24 answers correct you will be ready for the test. If you are not getting more than 75% for tests then it might be best to re-arrange your test appointment and commence further study. Once you have passed complete your application for citizenship.