ILR application process: where the Life in the UK Test fits

The quick answer: where the Life in the UK Test sits in the ILR application

Short answer: For most applicants, ILR approval requires meeting the Knowledge of Language and Life in the UK (KoLL) rule—this means both passing the Life in the UK Test and meeting the B1 English standard (or an accepted equivalent). You will enter your Life in the UK pass reference number in the online form, and the Home Office will validate it against their records.

What the KOLL rule requires for ILR

KoLL has two parts and you normally need both:

• Knowledge of life in the UK: pass the Life in the UK Test.
• Knowledge of language: meet English at B1 level (speaking and listening), or show an accepted alternative such as a qualifying degree taught in English. Nationals of majority English‑speaking countries are considered to meet the language element automatically but must still pass the Life in the UK Test.

See official policy and caseworker guidance on KoLL and English in Appendix KoLL, the KoLL caseworker guidance and the English language requirement.

How the Home Office verifies your test result

During the online ILR application, you will be asked for your Life in the UK Test unique reference number (or a document with a test reference ID). Caseworkers check this against official records—so you usually reference the pass rather than upload the certificate. See the documents you’ll need guidance for details.

When you actually need the pass (before submitting)

You must have met KoLL before you submit your ILR application unless you are exempt. The official guidance makes clear that for settlement applications you need to have passed the Life in the UK Test and meet the English requirement as part of eligibility.

Do you need the test? Eligibility and exemptions

Must-take groups: most applicants aged 18–64

If you’re applying for ILR and are 18 to 64, you usually must book and pass the Life in the UK Test and meet the English requirement. See the ILR eligibility pages (for example, the private life route) for the age rule and KoLL criteria.

Who is exempt: under 18, 65+, or long-term condition

• Under 18 or 65 and over: you are exempt from the Life in the UK Test and English language requirement.
• Long‑term physical or mental condition: you may be exempt from KoLL if a clinician confirms you cannot reasonably meet it.
• Already passed before: if you’ve passed once, you don’t need to retake it for ILR or citizenship.

These exemptions are set out on the official Life in the UK Test guidance and KoLL policy pages.

Proving a medical exemption: what evidence looks like

To evidence a medical exemption for KoLL, you typically need a completed exemption form from a doctor describing the nature of your long‑term condition and why it prevents you meeting KoLL. See the English language exemptions page for the form requirement (also relevant to KoLL), and note that test centres offer accessibility support and can provide the test in audio form where appropriate, per the Home Office’s KoLL waiver and accessibility guidance.

Map the ILR application process from start to finish

Timeline: test, English proof, documents, online form, UKVCAS, decision

1. Check your earliest date: for many 5‑year routes (e.g., Skilled Worker), you can apply up to 28 days before meeting the qualifying period. See the Skilled Worker ILR page for the 28‑day rule.
2. Meet KoLL: pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English B1 (or accepted equivalent).
3. Gather documents: immigration history, proof of residence, employment/relationship documents (route‑specific).
4. Complete the online ILR form: enter your Life in the UK pass reference number and English proof.
5. UKVCAS biometrics: book an appointment to submit fingerprints and a photo.
6. Decision: standard decisions can take up to 6 months depending on route and service chosen.

Helpful references: earliest ILR date (28 days), UKVCAS biometrics, and typical decision timelines.

Where the test appears in the online form (entering the pass number)

The form includes a KoLL section where you’ll input your Life in the UK Test pass reference number. If prompted, you may also upload your pass notification letter. Caseworkers use your reference to verify your result.

How it interacts with the English requirement (you usually need both)

You normally must satisfy both KoLL parts. If you’re a national of a majority English‑speaking country, you are deemed to meet the language element automatically—but you still need to pass the test. If you’re not exempt, acceptable English evidence includes an approved B1 qualification or a degree taught in English. For a deep dive, see our guide Life in the UK Test and B1: Do You Need Both in 2025?

Quick comparison (KoLL at a glance):

Official sources: Appendix KoLL; ILR eligibility; Home Office KoLL policy.

Booking the Life in the UK Test the right way

Name and ID must match exactly (avoid mismatches)

When you book, ensure the exact same name, spelling, and ID appear on your booking and your identification. If they don’t match, your test may be cancelled and your ILR timeline slips.

Choosing a test centre, cost, and special arrangements

• Book at least 3 days in advance via the official site and choose a test centre near you.
• Fee: £50 per attempt.
• Accessibility: centres can provide adjustments (e.g., audio format). Request support when booking.

See the official booking page: Life in the UK Test (gov.uk). Accessibility is also mentioned in the Home Office KoLL waiver guidance.

Step‑by‑step help: our dedicated guide How to book the Life in the UK Test shows screenshots and booking tips.

What to bring on test day and arrival checks

• The same ID you used to book (e.g., passport, BRP if acceptable).
• Your booking confirmation (digital is fine) and arrive in good time for check‑in and ID verification.
• If you requested adjustments, bring any supporting documentation specified during booking.

After you pass: using your result in the ILR application

Finding your unique reference number on the pass notification

Your pass notification shows a unique reference number. Keep it safe; you will need to enter it in the ILR form. If you received a letter or email with a test reference ID, keep that to hand too.

Referencing vs uploading: what the caseworker sees

In most routes, you’ll be asked to enter the reference in the online form. The Home Office can verify your result electronically. If the form asks for an upload, provide your pass notification. See the government guidance on required documents for examples of what’s accepted.

Fixing issues: lost pass number or name changes

• Lost your pass number? Check your email account used for booking or log into your test booking account. If needed, contact the Life in the UK Test support via the official booking portal.
• Name changed since testing? Provide legal evidence of the change (e.g., deed poll or marriage certificate) and ensure your ILR application reflects your current legal name. Keep your booking records handy in case of queries.

What if you fail, or timelines slip?

Retakes and how quickly you can rebook

If you do not pass, you can rebook another attempt as soon as a slot is available—remember all bookings must be made at least 3 days in advance and each attempt costs £50 on the official site.

Minimising knock-on delays to your ILR submission

• Book early test dates and keep a backup slot in mind.
• Use realistic mock tests to time your booking when you are consistently passing.
• Prepare your English B1 evidence and other documents in parallel.
• If a delay looks likely, check your visa expiry and plan accordingly.

Coordinating with visa expiry and priority services

Do not leave KoLL to the last minute. If your visa expiry is near, consider whether a priority or super priority decision service is offered for your route and location, and weigh the extra fee against the risk of overstaying. Always verify service availability at application time.

Route-specific nuances you should know

Skilled Worker and other 5-year work routes

You can usually apply for ILR up to 28 days before completing 5 years on a qualifying visa and must satisfy KoLL. See the Skilled Worker ILR guidance for exact timing and route rules.

Partner/spouse route (5-year pathway)

KoLL applies unless you are exempt. English B1 can be met through approved tests or an English‑taught degree. Ensure your relationship evidence aligns with your route’s requirements.

Long residence (10-year) route nuances

Applicants under the 10‑year lawful residence route must still meet KoLL unless exempt. Build in time for the test and English evidence even if your residence evidence is already complete.

Note on EU Settlement Scheme (settled status)

KoLL (including the Life in the UK Test) is not part of applying for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. This article focuses on ILR routes under the Immigration Rules where KoLL is required.

For a broader ILR overview across routes, see our guide Indefinite Leave to Remain: Your Step‑by‑Step Roadmap.

Prepare smarter: pass first time with Life in the UK Test App

Use the readiness score and realistic mock tests to time your booking

Booking too early risks a fail; booking too late risks missing your ILR window. The Life in the UK Test App gives you a readiness score and realistic mock tests so you can book when you’re consistently ready—reducing retake risk and protecting your timeline.

Learn faster with Brit-Bear and detailed explanations across 650+ questions

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Optimised official study materials and offline practice for busy schedules

Study anywhere with offline access and an optimised set of official‑style questions, flashcards, and mini‑mocks—ideal for commuting or quick lunchtime sessions. See our comprehensive study advice in How to Prepare for the Life in the UK Test.

Download on App Store: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6743702124 — Get it on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.briceventures.life_in_the_uk_test

ILR-ready checklist and 4-week sprint plan

10-point checklist linking test, English, documents, and booking

• Confirm your earliest ILR date (e.g., 28‑day rule for many 5‑year routes).
• Check if you’re exempt from KoLL; if not, plan your test and English evidence.
• Book the Life in the UK Test (≥3 days ahead) and ensure ID/name match.
• Build a study plan with daily practice and weekly mocks.
• Secure English B1 evidence or degree documentation.
• Prepare route‑specific documents (employment, relationship, residence).
• Complete the online ILR form and enter your test reference number.
• Upload supporting evidence as prompted.
• Book and attend your UKVCAS biometrics appointment.
• Track your decision timeline; consider priority options if available.

4-week study and application sprint (from booking to UKVCAS)

1. Week 1: Book your test; start daily study sessions; gather English B1 proof; assemble key ILR documents.
2. Week 2: Take 2–3 realistic mocks; focus on weak topics; fix any name/ID mismatches; draft the ILR form.
3. Week 3: Sit the test when your mocks show consistent passes; finalise ILR form; submit online and pay.
4. Week 4: Attend UKVCAS biometrics; respond quickly to any document requests; consider priority services if offered.

FAQs about the test within the ILR application process

Is my old pass still valid for ILR?

Yes—there’s no expiry once you’ve passed. Keep your pass reference and notification safe. If you’re unsure, see our explainer How Long Is the Life in the UK Test Valid For?

Do name changes affect my pass record?

Your pass remains valid. Provide evidence of the change (e.g., deed poll, marriage certificate) and ensure your ILR form reflects your current legal name.

Can I submit ILR before taking the test?

Not if you’re required to meet KoLL. You should pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English before you submit—unless you’re exempt.

Does priority or super priority processing change anything?

No—it doesn’t change KoLL. You still need to meet the test and English requirements; priority services only affect decision speed where available.

Final tips

• Book via the official gov.uk site only and at least 3 days in advance.
• Enter your pass reference carefully to avoid verification issues.
• Use realistic mocks to time your booking and avoid retakes.

Ready to benchmark your score and book with confidence? Download the Life in the UK Test App now: App Store | Google Play.

Always check the latest rules on gov.uk before applying.