Most ILR applicants need to pass two separate tests: the Life in the UK test (£50) and a B1 English test (£150–£215), unless they qualify for an exemption from one or both. There is no single "ILR test" — these are two independent requirements assessed separately.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Test | Cost | What it checks |
|---|---|---|
| Life in the UK test | £50 | Knowledge of British history, culture, and society |
| B1 English test | £150–£215 | Speaking and listening ability |
| Do most applicants need both? | — | Yes, unless exempt from one or both |
| Life in the UK test exemptions | — | Under 18, 65+, certain nationalities, medical condition |
| B1 English exemptions | — | Skilled Worker visa holders, certain nationalities, 65+, medical condition |
| Retake cost if you fail | Full fee again | No discount for either test |
Quick Overview
✅ ILR requires two separate tests, not one combined "ILR test" ✅ The Life in the UK test costs £50 and is a 24-question knowledge test ✅ The B1 English test costs £150–£215 and assesses speaking and listening ⚠️ Passing one test does not exempt you from the other — check both separately ⚠️ Skilled Worker visa holders are exempt from B1 but still need the Life in the UK test 📌 Both fees are non-refundable if you fail — prepare properly before booking either 📌 Exemptions from age, nationality, or medical condition apply differently to each test 💡 Use our exemption checkers for both tests before you book anything 💡 Budget separate preparation time for each — they test completely different skills
The two tests ILR actually requires
1. The Life in the UK test (£50) A 24-question, 45-minute, computer-based test on British history, values, government, and everyday life. Every question comes from the official handbook. You must pass before submitting most ILR applications, unless exempt.
2. The B1 English test (£150–£215) An assessment of your speaking and listening ability at CEFR level B1, taken through an approved provider — Trinity GESE Grade 5, IELTS Life Skills B1, or LANGUAGECERT B1. Required before most ILR applications, unless exempt.
There is no single test that covers both. Searching for "the ILR test" or "ILR exam" as if it were one assessment is a common source of confusion — you need to prepare for, book, and pass each independently.
Who is exempt from the Life in the UK test?
You may be exempt if you are under 18, aged 65 or over, have a long-term medical condition preventing you from sitting the test, or hold certain nationalities. Use our free exemption checker to confirm your status in 60 seconds.
Who is exempt from the B1 English test?
You may be exempt if you hold a Skilled Worker or Tier 2 visa (English already proved at visa stage), are a national of an exempt country such as Australia, Canada, or the USA, are aged 65 or over, or have a qualifying medical condition. Use our free B1 English level check to gauge your readiness if you are not exempt.
What if you're exempt from one but not the other?
This is common and normal. Exemption from B1 (for example, as a Skilled Worker visa holder) does not exempt you from the Life in the UK test, and vice versa. Check each exemption individually — do not assume one covers the other.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Searching for "the ILR test" as if it's one exam There is no single ILR test. Applicants who prepare for only one requirement, assuming it covers everything, are caught out when they discover the second requirement late in the process.
❌ Assuming a Skilled Worker visa exempts you from both tests Skilled Worker visa holders are exempt from B1 English only. The Life in the UK test is still required unless you separately qualify under age or medical grounds.
❌ Booking both tests without preparing for either properly Both fees are non-refundable if you fail. Rushing to book before you're ready wastes money — use our free tools to confirm readiness first.
❌ Leaving one test until after your ILR deadline is close B1 English test booking and results can take longer to arrange than the Life in the UK test. Start both processes early, not sequentially at the last minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests do I need to pass for ILR?
Most applicants need to pass the Life in the UK test (£50) and a B1 English test (£150–£215), unless exempt from one or both. There is no single combined "ILR test."
Is there one test that covers both requirements?
No. The Life in the UK test and the B1 English test are entirely separate, assessed by different providers, and must each be passed and evidenced individually on your ILR application.
How much do the ILR tests cost in total?
Between £200 and £265 for both tests combined, on top of the £3,226 ILR application fee itself, unless you qualify for exemptions that reduce this.
Can I be exempt from both tests?
Yes, though the exemption criteria are different for each. Age (under 18 or 65+) and certain medical conditions can exempt you from both. Visa-based exemptions (like Skilled Worker) typically apply to B1 only. Check both individually using our free checkers.
Do I need to retake either test if I already passed years ago?
The Life in the UK test result is valid for life once passed. B1 English certificates are typically valid for 2 years — check your certificate date against your application timeline.
How This Aligns With Official Guidance
GOV.UK lists the Life in the UK test and the English language requirement as two separate conditions for most ILR applications, each with its own exemption criteria. This page reflects that official position. Last reviewed: July 2026 — figures correct at time of publication. Always check GOV.UK for the latest guidance.
Official Resources
Life in the UK test — GOV.UK Book the knowledge test.
Prove your knowledge of English — GOV.UK Official guidance on approved English tests and exemptions.
Our Free Resources
Life in the UK Test Exemption Checker Confirm your exemption status in 60 seconds.
B1 English Level Check Free practice quiz to check your readiness.
ILR Eligibility Calculator Find your exact ILR date and full cost breakdown, including both tests.
Check your exemption status for both tests individually, then start preparing for whichever you actually need — our free practice questions and B1 check cover both, at no cost.