How the NBT Online Test Works – Everything You Need to Know
What You Need to Know About the National Benchmark Test (NBT)
If you’re a matriculant who recently applied to study at a public university in South Africa, there’s a good chance you may be required to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT). Wondering how it works? Here’s a breakdown.
What Is the NBT?
The NBT is designed to assess a student’s academic readiness for university. It evaluates core skills that are essential for success in higher education and helps institutions make informed admission and placement decisions.
How Does It Work?
The NBT consists of two separate tests, depending on your field of study:
1. AQL – Academic & Quantitative Literacy
Tests academic literacy and numerical reasoning skills
Structured as a multiple-choice exam
Total writing time: 3 hours
All applicants, regardless of their chosen programme, must write the AQL test.
2. MAT – Mathematics
Tests mathematical ability at a high school level
Also a multiple-choice exam
Total writing time: 3 hours
Required only for applicants applying to programmes that require Mathematics, such as engineering, commerce, or health sciences.
Who Oversees the NBT?
Although the NBT is an initiative of the Department of Higher Education, it is administered by the Centre for Educational Testing for Access and Placement (CETAP), a unit within CHED at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
Why Is the NBT Important?
It complements the National Senior Certificate (NSC) results and gives universities a more rounded view of an applicant’s readiness.
Institutions like UCT and other leading South African universities use NBT results to help:
Interpret school-leaving results more effectively
Determine whether students may need academic support
Guide curriculum adjustments for entry-level courses
Is There a Past Paper or Practice Test?
No. The NBT does not release past papers or practice tests. The test content is considered confidential and is not publicly available for preparation.
Background
The NBT was introduced in 2006 to support universities in bridging the gap between school and university. It plays a vital role in helping institutions plan for first-year teaching, learning support, and academic development.
For more information, visit the official NBT website or contact the admissions office at your university of choice.