National Benchmark Test NBT Application 2025-2026
There are two tests, the AQL and the MAT. The AQL is written in a 3 hour morning session. The MAT is written on the same day in a 3 hour afternoon session.
Each university and faculty determines which tests must be written and the deadline to receive results.
The schedule of NBT National Test Sites is routinely updated to reflect changes in sites and number of seats available. Four weeks prior to a test date, sites may be closed or additional ones opened due to demand.
You must be at the check-in desk by 7:30 AM on your scheduled test date.
A Friday or Sunday session is offered each month at major test sites to accommodate learners who cannot write on Saturday.
You are not allowed to write the AQL test on one day and the MAT test on another.
You must use your name as printed on your official ID when registering and when writing. Your ID will be checked before you are allowed to write on test day.
Registration is date and site specific; learners who do not report as scheduled must re-schedule and pay for the make-up test session.
Registration is online.
You NEED the following to register:
- Your official ID book (if you are not a citizen of South Africa, you will need your passport)
- City and site where you want to write
- NBT requirements from the institutions where you plan to apply
- Date when you want to write (allow 4 weeks to receive results)
- Pen and paper to record your username and EasyPay number
Take note of the following:
The NBT Project does not determine which test you must write nor the deadline for submitting results.
Most higher education institutions in South Africa post their requirements on their website and in their prospectus.
Your username (ID or Passport number) and password are used to:
- Complete the registration process if you did not finish
- Correct personal information
- Request change to test date or site
- Verify payment so that your results may be released.
