The whole “test experience” can take up to about 2 hours (arrival, checks, test, waiting for results), so plan accordingly (also for childcare as if you have kids you cannot bring them into the centre). (lituktestbooking.co.uk).

If you need special arrangements (disability, language support), declare these when you book and bring supporting evidence on the day. (lituktestbooking.co.uk)

What happens on the day — step-by-step

1. Arrive at the test centre

   • The Home Office will send an arrival time when you book; arrive on time (centres usually ask you to be there ~30 minutes early). If you’re late your test may be cancelled and you may not get a refund.
   • In my case, I arrived a bit earlier and I was able to take the test before the scheduled time, but some centres might ask you to wait.

2. Check-in & ID check

   • At reception you’ll be asked to present the original ID you used when booking (passport, BRP, biometric travel document, etc.). The name/details on the ID must match your booking exactly. You will not be allowed to sit the test without the correct ID. (GOV.UK)
   • As part of identity checks, the centre will take a photo of you on the day.
   • You will be subject to a security check (may include a search). Personal items must be left in lockers or a secure area. Centres usually provide lockers. (lituktestbooking.co.uk)
   • If you need go to the bathroom or else, make sure to do this BEFORE the check-in, as you are not allowed to leave and come back once the check-in is completed.

3. Arrival briefing / instructions

   • A test centre supervisor will explain rules and confirm any special arrangements you requested (for disability, extra time, etc.). If you made special-needs requests when booking, bring supporting evidence. (lituktestbooking.co.uk)
   • Before starting the test, you will be handed some instructions showing how the buttons in the test interface look like and what they do. Take your time to have a look. There will also be some instructions on screen explaining how the test works.
   • You will start by taking 4 sample questions to get familiar with the test format, these question do not count toward the test result.

4. Take the test

   • The test is computer-based: 24 multiple-choice questions, 45 minutes total (GOV.UK).
   • Some questions require you to select more than one choice, so read each question carefully.
   • The wording of the questions is often different than what seen on mock exams found online. For example, if while studying you have encountered the question “What does the Laurence Olivier Awards recognise?”, you can expect the same question asked in a different format during the exam: “What award recognise excellence in professional theatre?”.
   • After you submit, you’ll usually receive the result by mail within 10 minutes.

5. If you pass: you get a unique reference number (URN) / pass notification

   • If you pass (you must score 75% or more — at least 18/24), you’ll receive a unique reference number or pass notification which you must keep and use in your citizenship/settlement application. (GOV.UK)
   • IMPORTANT: don’t lose your URN, there is no easy way to get it back if you lose it (beside taking the exam again).

6. If you fail: cooling-off and rebooking rules

   • If you fail, you’ll be told this on the day. You can retake the test, but you must pay the fee again and normally wait at least 7 days before rebooking. (paragonlaw.co.uk)