The statistics do not differentiate between those taking the test for the first time and in subsequent attempts. Each attempt costs £34 (a relatively small sum next to the hundreds of pounds required for a settlement or naturalisation application). Those whose leave expires before they pass must apply for further limited leave. To do this, they must still meet the requirements of their category. Those, for example, who lose their job or whose relationship breaks down before they pass the test may be required to leave the UK. All migrants will face more demanding criteria once reforms to settlement and naturalisation are implemented, currently planned for 2011.

The test is gaining a reputation for being difficult. American author Bill Bryson, who has lived in the UK for many years, recently told an audience at a literary festival that he was “too cowardly” to take the test.

Links:

British citizenship test: One in three immigrants fails (BBC news, 27 May 2010)

Bill Bryson: I’ll cheer for England, but I won’t risk citizenship test (The Guardian, 29 May 2010)