The National Benchmark Tests measure academic literacy, quantitative literacy and mathematics against what first-year courses expect. Some universities use them to place you in support programmes; a few use them in the admission decision itself.

Who needs it

  • UCT: every undergraduate applicant.
  • Stellenbosch: most programmes.
  • Wits: health sciences and some other programmes. Health sciences applicants must write the venue-based paper test, not the online one.
  • UP, UWC, UFS: specific programmes, mostly health sciences. Check the programme page.
  • Most universities of technology and UNISA: not required.

If a programme you are applying for needs it, the NBT section on your Scenda application is where you tell your specialist which venue suits you.

What it costs

  • Academic and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) only: R195
  • AQL and Mathematics (MAT) together: R390
  • Re-mark: R250

Write MAT if any programme you are applying for needs Mathematics, which covers engineering, science, commerce, medicine and computer science. One sitting covers every institution you list on the booking.

When

Tests run roughly monthly from May into the new year. Results take three to four weeks. Book a date at least six weeks before the earliest closing date that needs the result, and list every institution on the booking so results are sent automatically. Results are valid for three years, so a Grade 11 learner can write early.

How to book

  1. Register at nbtests.uct.ac.za with your ID number.
  2. Choose online or a venue. Choose a venue if you are applying for Wits health sciences.
  3. Pay and keep the reference number.
  4. Arrive with your ID and the printed confirmation.
NSFAS does not pay NBT fees. Budget for it alongside your application fees.