This week is a milestone for our little family. After months of review, prayers, and late-night study sessions, Nanay finally passed her Life in the UK exam—one of the key steps toward her Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)application.
For those who might not know, the Life in the UK test is like a mini-history, culture, and government exam that migrants need to pass before applying for ILR or citizenship. Hindi siya madali, especially if you’re busy being a full-time mom. But Nanay did it, and I couldn’t be prouder.
How She Prepared
Her preparation started two months ago. She took it seriously—balancing the daily chaos of raising two toddlers with study time. Eto ang naging study toolkit niya:
The Book – She bought the official Life in the UK: The Official Guide for New Residents: a guide for new residents book from Amazon. Every night, she would read a few chapters, highlight important parts, and quiz herself.
Apps – She downloaded two different apps with mock exams. While waiting for the kids to nap or while I’m doing Tatay duties, she would sneak in practice tests. One is the Official Life in the UK app and the other one was Life in the UK Prep Test.
YouTube Videos – This was her secret weapon. She listened to Life in the UK sample questions and answers on YouTube habang nagluluto, naglalaba, or doing other chores. Multi-tasking queen talaga!
For two months, she repeated the cycle: read, test, review, repeat. Slowly, she started to get higher scores on her mock tests, and that gave her the confidence to finally take her exam.
The Exam Day
On the day of her exam, Nanay was a mix of nervous and excited. Sabi niya, “Parang balik college exam days ulit.” She went to the test center with her passport, locked her things in a locker, and went through the usual identity checks. Then the big moment came: 24 multiple-choice questions, 70% needed to pass.
After the exam, she waited for the result. It didn’t take long. The email came, and there it was—PASSED! The look on her face was priceless—relief, joy, and pride all rolled into one.
What’s Next
Nanay will hit her 5-year mark in January 2026, making her eligible to apply for ILR. This time, no solicitor, no company sponsorship—just us doing it DIY. It feels a bit overwhelming, but seeing how dedicated she was in preparing for the Life in the UK test, I know we can handle it.
For now, we’re just celebrating this win. Passing this exam isn’t just about ticking a requirement—it’s about showing perseverance, commitment, and hope for a future here in the UK.
And to my wife, if you’re reading this (alam kong minsan sumisilip ka sa blog ko 😅): we’re so proud of you. 💕
👉 To my fellow kababayans preparing for the Life in the UK exam: take it seriously, give yourself enough time, and use every resource you can. If Nanay can do it while being a full-time mom of two toddlers, you can do it too!
#Dadbuhay
DadBuhay 
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