NBT Test

The NBTs assess key competencies essential for success in higher education, specifically focusing on Academic Literacy, Quantitative Literacy, and Mathematics. These skills are vital for managing the academic demands of university courses.

Why Take the NBT?

  1. Admission Requirement: Many universities in South Africa require NBT scores as part of their admission criteria.
  2. Personal Benchmarking: The results help identify areas where you may need to improve, providing a clearer path for academic success.
  3. Placement Decisions: Institutions use NBT results in conjunction with other application materials to determine the best placement for incoming students.

Key Features of the NBT

No Pass Mark

It’s important to note that there is no specific pass mark for the NBT. Instead, each institution interprets the results using Benchmark Levels alongside other applicant information to make informed admissions and placement decisions.

Online Test Environment

The NBT is administered in a secure, proctored online environment. Each test session is recorded to ensure compliance with testing procedures, so maintaining a suitable environment is essential for a valid test.

Preparing for the NBT

General Rules for Test-Taking

To ensure a smooth testing experience, adhere to the following rules:

  1. Test Environment: Choose a quiet room with a blank wall behind you and adequate lighting.
  2. Technical Requirements: Ensure your computer has a working camera and microphone. Cell phones, smart devices, or any unauthorized materials are strictly prohibited during the test.
  3. Session Compliance: You must maintain your camera and microphone visibility throughout the test. Ensure your face is clearly visible, as any obstructions can lead to invalidation of your session.

Equipment Checklist

Before the test day, confirm you have the necessary equipment:

  • A laptop or desktop meeting minimum requirements (Windows 10/11 or MacOS 10.15 and above)
  • A stable internet connection (minimum 6 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up)
  • Administrator rights on your computer for installing the required Lockdown Browser
  • Valid identification (South African ID or passport)

Test Day: What to Expect

Login and Test Session

On the test day, log in no later than 08:30 to resolve any technical issues before the test starts at 09:00. Each test lasts approximately 3 hours, so be prepared for a focused session.

Simulation Test

Completing a compulsory simulation before the official test is required. This helps familiarize yourself with the testing platform and processes. The simulation includes:

  • Photo ID verification
  • Biographical information entry
  • Sample test questions

This simulation must be completed on the same device you will use for the actual test.

Conclusion

The National Benchmark Tests play a significant role in your higher education application process in South Africa. By understanding the requirements, preparing adequately, and following the testing protocols, you can navigate the NBT successfully and make a strong impression on your chosen institutions.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.