Life in the UK test contract awarded
PSI Services has been awarded the Life in the UK contract by the Home Office, it was announced today.
Copyright Getty images.
Following a fair, open and rigorous procurement process the Life in the UK contract has been awarded to PSI Services.
The Life in the UK test is a computer-based test taken by people who are applying for settlement or British citizenship. It is designed to support cultural integration.
It helps to make sure that those who wish to make the UK their home, or become British citizens, understand British values. As part of the test, individuals are also required to show they have a sufficient grasp of the English language.
PSI Services are the current provider of the test and through the procurement process they demonstrated that they offered the best value for the taxpayer and expertise to deliver a high-quality service.
Immigration Minister Caroline Nokes said:
Knowledge and understanding of British values is vital for those who wish to make the UK their home.
This new contract will make sure people continue to demonstrate these values, whilst also providing the best value for taxpayers.
We remain committed to reviewing how the Life in the UK test can give greater prominence to British values and will bring forward these proposals in due course.
The new contract will last for 3 years, with the option of an extension of up to 24 months, and is expected to be in place by the winter of this year.
Approximately 177,000 people take the test each year and tests will be available at around 41 locations across the UK.
The Home Office is continuing to look at reforming the Life in the UK test to give greater prominence to the British values and principles expected of those wishing to call the UK their permanent home.