The National Benchmark Tests (NBT) are used to determine how academically ready you are for university. Two tests are offered, the AQL and the MAT test. AQL stands for Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy, while MAT is an abbreviation for Mathematics.
The AQL test is presented as a multiple-choice test with each section timed for a total of three hours of writing time. The AQL test is written by applicants of all programs.
The second test is Mathematics (MAT), which tests the student's level of competence in mathematics. This test is written by those who have applied to study courses that require a pass in Mathematics. It is also a multiple-choice test that is timed to be written in three hours.
NBT Test Dates For 2023
- 13 May (Online)
- 20 May
- 3 June
- 10 June
- 11 June (Sunday Session)
- 24 June (Online)
- 1 July
- 2 July (Sunday Session)
- 8 July
- 15 July
- 16 July (Sunday Session)
- 22 July (Online)
- 29 July
- 12 August
- 13 August (Sunday Session)
- 19 August
- 26 August (Online)
- 9 September
- 16 September
- 30 September
- 7 October (Online)
- 14 October
- 25 November
- 2 December
- 6 Jan
Students who want to write the AQL test only will be required to pay a fee of R145, and those who want to write both the AQL and MAT will need to pay R290, while rewrites will be charged R250.
All students applying for undergraduate studies at South African universities are required to take the NBT. The test scores are used by universities to determine whether a student requires additional support to succeed in their chosen qualification.
Students have been advised to view the FAQ sections for information and answers to commonly asked questions.
- Here are the NBT Test Dates for 2023
- 2023 Registration For National Benchmark Tests Now Open
- When Will 2023 National Benchmark Test Registration Close
- What Are The National Benchmark Tests?
- How To Register To Write The National Benchmark Tests
- How To Register To Write Your NBTs online
- What Is An NBT Simulation Test
- New NBT Preparation App Launched
- This Is What Your NBT Results Mean
- Here's The Difference Between the NSC and NBTs
- How Much NBTs Cost and How To Pay
- How To Get Your NBT Results
- How The NBT Online Test Work And What You Need To Know
- How You Can Register For Your NBT Test
- 2023 Registration For National Benchmark Tests Now Open
- What Are The National Benchmark Tests?
- How To Register To Write The National Benchmark Tests
- How To Prepare For The National Benchmark Tests