NSC vs. NBTs: Key Differences You Should Know
NSC vs. NBTs: Key Differences You Should Know
What’s the Difference Between the NBT and the NSC?
Both the National Senior Certificate (NSC) and the National Benchmark Test (NBT) are important tools used by universities in South Africa when assessing applicants—but they serve different purposes. Here’s how they compare:
National Benchmark Test (NBT)
The NBT is an exam designed by the National Benchmark Test Project, managed by the Alternative Admissions Research Project (AARP). Introduced in 2008, the NBT aims to measure a student’s academic literacy, quantitative literacy, and mathematical skills to assess readiness for university-level study.
Many universities use NBT results as an additional admissions tool alongside NSC results.
The NBT does not replace or duplicate the NSC but rather complements it by offering further insight into a student’s academic potential.
Students can write the NBT even if they haven’t yet passed matric. In most cases, learners write the NBT during their Grade 12 (matric) year.
National Senior Certificate (NSC)
The NSC is the official school-leaving certificate in South Africa, commonly referred to as the matric certificate. It is a mandatory requirement for entry into any higher education institution.
Key facts about the NSC:
Awarded after successful completion of Grade 12.
Students must take at least seven subjects, including:
Two official South African languages (one at Home Language level)
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
Life Orientation
Three elective subjects
The pass mark is 40% in at least three subjects and 30% in three others.
The average score across subjects is typically around 55%.
Even if you perform well in the NBT, you must still pass the NSC to gain admission to university.
In Summary:
| Aspect | NBT | NSC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Assesses academic readiness for university | Official high school qualification (matric) |
| Mandatory? | Depends on the university | Yes – required for university admission |
| Introduced | 2008 | Long-standing national qualification |
| Subjects | Academic & quantitative literacy, mathematics | Seven subjects, including languages and electives |
| Used by | Universities as a supplementary admission tool | All institutions of higher learning |
For more about the NBT, contact your university of interest.
To learn more about the NSC, visit the Department of Basic Education.