Do I still need the Life in the UK Test as well as B2 English?

Yes, usually. Appendix KoLL asks for both knowledge of English and knowledge about life in the UK, so most ILR applicants need the Life in the UK Test as well as the English requirement, which moves to B2 for applications on or after 26 March 2027.

Two separate requirements

Appendix KoLL paragraph 2.1 says an applicant meets the requirement if they meet both 2.2 (English) and 2.3 (the Life in the UK Test). The B2 change affects only the English part. Passing one does not replace the other.

About the Life in the UK Test

GOV.UK says it costs £50, must be booked at least 3 days in advance, and has 24 questions to answer in 45 minutes, based on the official Guide for New Residents. There are over 30 test centres in the UK.

Who does not need it

GOV.UK says you do not need the Life in the UK Test if you are under 18, 65 or over, have passed it before, or have a long-term physical or mental condition (with an exemption form or a doctor's letter). The English exemptions are similar but not identical: see Who is exempt from the English test?.

Order does not matter, timing does

You can take them in either order. Remember that an English test must be taken no more than 2 years before you apply (see How long is a test valid?). The free checker tells you whether you probably need the B2 English test.

Last checked against GOV.UK: 21 October 2026.

Sources

1. Life in the UK Test (GOV.UK, checked 21 Oct 2026)
2. Immigration Rules: Appendix KoLL (updated 26 March 2026) (GOV.UK, checked 21 Oct 2026)

This is general information, not immigration advice. Check GOV.UK for your own route, or speak to a regulated immigration adviser (registered with the IAA, formerly OISC). Find a regulated adviser on GOV.UK.