Does this apply to all visa applications wishing to settle in the UK? I am aware that the test is a requirement for a spouse visa but, does it apply to the fiancee/civil partnership visa?

The short answer is yes unless the applicant is exempt.

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/settlement/knowledge-language-life/

Tourist visa it is then.

Does the applicant want to live in the UK, Danielson?

Just inquiring for my girlfriend. Her English is improving and I think six months with me in the UK will prepare her for the test and give her a chance to immerse herself in UK culture. Cheers for the reply.

You do realise that she does not have to take LitUK test to enter the UK initially, don't you?

No. I didn't. I was under the impression that teh test needed to be taken and passed and then submitted with the application.

Please see this page, Danielson:

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/partners-families/citizens-settled/fiancee-proposed-cp/documents/

...and here:

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/partners-families/citizens-settled/fiancee-proposed-cp/documents/english-language/

Please note, The English Language Requirement is not the LitUK test.

i am aware of the BULATS test. I have already been through the process of applying for a settlement visa with my ex wife through thai visa express. I am under the impression the Life In The Uk test needs to taken before an application since the rules changed in October.

Only the English language requirement which is at a 'basic' level. The finer detail listed here:

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/partners-other-family/guidance-for-applicants.pdf

I am under the impression the Life In The Uk test needs to taken before an application since the rules changed in October.

Yes, the rules did change on 28 October but this is for anyone applying for settlement or naturalisation as a British citizen.

So while these changes would, ultimately, apply to your future wife in the years to come, they do not apply to the application to enter or remain as the fiancée or proposed civil partner of a British citizen or a person settled here.

Please also see 7by7's thread, UK Settlement Visa Basics:

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/524561-uk-settlement-visa-basics/

The language requirements for settlement w.e.f. 28/10/2013 are:

Initial visa application: A1, or equivalent, in speaking and listening.

Further Leave to Remain; A1, or the equivalent, in speaking and listening.

Indefinite Leave to Remain: B1, or the equivalent, in speaking and listening and LitUK test.

There is, of course, no language requirement for visitors.