If you’re a Grade 12 learner or recent matriculant planning to apply for university in South Africa, you’ve probably heard about the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). These tests are used by many universities as an additional tool to assess academic readiness. But do you really need to write the NBTs? The answer depends on the university, the course, and sometimes even your school-leaving results.
What Are the NBTs?
The National Benchmark Tests are standardised assessments designed to measure a student’s academic literacy, quantitative literacy, and mathematics skills. There are two components:
- AQL (Academic and Quantitative Literacy): Compulsory for all test-takers. It evaluates language skills and basic problem-solving ability.
- MAT (Mathematics): Only required for programmes that include mathematics, such as engineering, commerce, and science.
These tests help universities make informed decisions about admission, placement in extended degree programmes, and identifying students who may need additional academic support.
When Do You Need to Write the NBTs?
You only need to write the exam if the university or course you’re applying for requires it. Some institutions make it compulsory for all applicants, while others only require them for specific faculties. Here’s how it usually works:
1. Universities That Commonly Require NBTs
Several major universities in South Africa require tests as part of their admissions process. Examples include:
- University of Cape Town (UCT): NBTs are mandatory for all undergraduate programmes.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits): Required for most degrees, especially in health sciences and engineering.
- Stellenbosch University: NBTs are compulsory for all applicants.
- University of Pretoria: Required for selected programmes.
- University of Johannesburg: Some faculties require NBTs, depending on the course.
Other universities may request test scores in special cases or for placement in foundation programmes.
2. Courses That Typically Require NBTs
Certain courses are more likely to require tests, such as:
- Health Sciences (Medicine, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, etc.): Almost always require high NBT performance.
- Engineering and Science: Often require both AQL and MAT components.
- Commerce (Accounting, Economics, Finance): Commonly require NBTs, particularly the AQL.
- Education and Law: Some institutions may require NBTs for these, especially UCT and Wits.
Always check the admission requirements for each course at each university, as they may vary even within the same institution.
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Who May Be Exempt from Writing the NBTs?
Some students do not need to write the tests, such as:
- Applicants to universities that don’t use the NBTs at all (e.g. some TVET colleges, UNISA, or certain programmes at NMU or DUT).
- Applicants with international qualifications like Cambridge A-Levels or IB may be exempt.
- Some universities might waive the requirement for students with exceptionally strong NSC (matric) results.
When Should You Register for the NBTs?
It’s recommended to register early in your matric year, ideally before June, to ensure your scores are ready in time for university applications. The tests are offered between May and December, and can be written at testing centres nationwide or online (depending on the format chosen for the year).
Visit the official NBT website: www.nbt.ac.za for test dates, fees, and registration information.
What Happens If You Don’t Write the NBTs?
If the NBTs are compulsory for your chosen programme, not submitting your results could result in your application being rejected or considered incomplete. Some universities may accept your application provisionally and request test scores later. Others use NBT scores to determine whether you qualify for the mainstream or extended programme.
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Final Tips
- Always read the university’s prospectus or website to check whether tests are required for your specific course.
- Prepare in advance. Use past papers and free resources to familiarise yourself with the format.
- Register early to avoid missing your preferred test dates.
Not every student in South Africa needs to write the tests , but if you’re applying to competitive or academically demanding programmes, especially at top universities, it’s likely you’ll need to take them. Double-check each university’s requirements to ensure your application is complete and competitive.
