NBT Guide 2026: The Complete National Benchmark Test Prep Guide
A complete, plain-English guide to the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) for 2026: the AQL and MAT tests, which universities require them, how they are scored, and how to prepare.
By Muneeb Galant in NBT Preparation · 2 min read
Key Takeaways
- The NBT has two tests: AQL (Academic & Quantitative Literacy) and MAT (Mathematics).
- Universities including UCT, Wits and Stellenbosch use the NBT for admission and placement.
- Every question is multiple choice with four options and no negative marking.
- MAT and the QL section are calculator-free.
- Results place you in a band — Basic, Intermediate or Proficient — not a pass/fail mark.
The National Benchmark Tests (NBT) are written by tens of thousands of South African matrics every year, yet most students go in unsure of what to expect. This guide explains exactly what the NBT is, who needs it, how it is scored, and how to prepare — and links you to free original NBT practice questions you can try right now.
What is the NBT?
The NBT measures whether you are academically ready for university study. It complements your matric results rather than replacing them. The tests are administered by CETAP (the Centre for Educational Testing for Access and Placement) at the University of Cape Town, on behalf of Universities South Africa.
There are two separate tests:
- AQL — Academic and Quantitative Literacy. One test with two sections that are scored separately. Read the deep dive: NBT AQL explained.
- MAT — Mathematics. A separate, Grade-12-based maths test. Read the deep dive: NBT MAT explained.
Which universities require the NBT?
Several universities use NBT results for admission, for placement into mainstream versus extended programmes, and for curriculum planning. Institutions that commonly require the NBT include UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UFS, UWC and UP. Because requirements are set per faculty and programme — Health Sciences, Commerce, Law and Engineering most often — always confirm with the specific programme you are applying to.
How is the NBT structured?
| AQL | MAT | |
|---|---|---|
| Domains | Academic Literacy + Quantitative Literacy | Mathematics |
| Format | Multiple choice (4 options) | Multiple choice (4 options) |
| Calculator | No (for QL) | No |
| Negative marking | None | None |
| Duration | ~3 hours | ~3 hours |
Every question is multiple choice with four options and one correct answer. To understand how the questions are built — and why you cannot simply back-solve from the options — read how NBT questions are designed.
How is the NBT scored?
The NBT does not give a pass or fail. It is criterion-referenced: your score places you in a band — Basic, Intermediate or Proficient — reported separately for each domain. Universities interpret these bands when making admission and placement decisions. For the exact score ranges and what each band means, see NBT scoring and benchmark bands.
How should I prepare for the NBT?
Because the NBT tests reasoning rather than memorised content, the best preparation is practising the question styles under timed, calculator-free conditions. LearningLoop offers original AQL and MAT practice questions mapped to the official framework, with instant marking and per-domain band feedback so you can see exactly where you stand.
Start with the deep-dive guides below, then put it into practice.
LearningLoop is independent and not affiliated with, authorised by, or endorsed by CETAP, the National Benchmark Tests Project (NBTP), or Universities South Africa (USAf). All practice questions are original material aligned to the publicly published NBT framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NBT?
The National Benchmark Tests (NBT) measure a university applicant's academic readiness. They complement, but do not replace, the National Senior Certificate (NSC). The tests are run by CETAP at the University of Cape Town on behalf of Universities South Africa.
Which universities require the NBT?
Several South African universities use the NBT, including UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, the University of the Free State, the University of the Western Cape and the University of Pretoria. Requirements are programme-specific, so always check the faculty you are applying to.
Is there negative marking on the NBT?
No. Every NBT question is multiple choice with four options and exactly one correct answer, and there is no penalty for a wrong answer. You should answer every question.
Can I use a calculator in the NBT?
No. The MAT test and the Quantitative Literacy section of the AQL are calculator-free. Questions are designed so a calculator is not needed; a formula sheet is provided for MAT.
How is the NBT scored?
The NBT is criterion-referenced: instead of a pass/fail mark, your result places you in a performance band — Basic, Intermediate or Proficient — reported separately for each domain.