NBT
National Benchmark Tests (NBT)
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ExploreAbout this exam
The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are administered through the National Benchmark Test Project. The official NBT site presents an AQL option and an AQL & MAT option, and publishes fees for each as well as a re-mark fee. It provides applicant guidance on booking a test, test dates, test venues, what to expect, and accessing or requesting results. The site also has sections for educators and institutions, including placement testing and national reports covering multiple years. Candidates should treat the official site as the starting point: the About section links to the NBT brochure and 'What is in the NBTs?', applicants can read the FAQ and 'What to expect', and sample questions are available from the quick links. Before writing, review the NBT Online Test Rules, the NBT Online Instruction Manual and the instruction videos, especially if registering as a remote writer or writing with a disability. The retrieved pages do not publish a pass mark, test duration, item count, retake policy or score validity period, so verify those details directly with the NBT project using the published contact email or telephone.
What you'll study
About NBT preparation
What are the NBTs and who are they for?
The National Benchmark Tests are administered by the National Benchmark Test Project. The official site is organised for applicants, educators and institutions, with applicant pages covering booking, dates, venues, what to expect and results. Applicants should check with the institution they plan to attend about whether they need to write the NBTs and which tests are required.
Which NBT tests can I write, and what do they cost?
The official site lists an AQL-only option at R195 and an AQL & MAT option at R390. A re-mark costs R250. Fees are stated in South African rand on the NBT site; confirm the current amount and payment process through the official booking pages before you pay.
How do I book a test and find a date or venue?
Use the official 'How to book a test' page and the 'Book a test' link, then check the published 'Test dates' and 'Test venues' pages. If you have trouble with the online booking account, contact the NBT project using the email address or telephone number published on the official site.
What is the test format and how long does it take?
The retrieved official pages do not state the number of questions, the time limit or the detailed format. Read the 'What to expect' page, the NBT Online Test Rules, the NBT Online Instruction Manual and the instruction videos, and work through the official sample questions to understand what the test interface and tasks involve.
How should I prepare, and in what order?
Start with the NBT brochure and the 'What is in the NBTs?' page to understand the tests. Then review the sample questions and the 'What to expect' page. Finally, read the NBT Online Test Rules and watch the instruction videos so that technical or procedural issues do not disrupt your test day.
Can I retake the NBTs if I am unhappy with my result?
The retrieved official pages do not publish a retake policy, waiting period or limit on attempts. Check the official FAQ and 'How to book a test' pages, or contact the NBT project directly, before assuming you can rewrite. A re-mark is separately listed at R250 if you want your result reviewed.
How do I access or request my results?
The official site provides 'Access your results' and 'Request your results' pages under the NBT results section. It also has an 'Interpreting Results' page. Follow the instructions on those pages and use the published NBT contact details if you cannot access your result or need to request it.
What support is available for remote writers and learners with disabilities?
The official site has a 'Register as a Remote Writer' page and a 'Learners with disabilities' page. It also links to the NBT Online Test Rules, the NBT Online Instruction Manual and instruction videos. Read those pages early and contact the NBT project using the published email or telephone number to confirm arrangements.
How do I request a re-mark?
The official site lists a re-mark fee of R250. The retrieved pages do not describe the full re-mark procedure, deadline or expected turnaround. Check the official FAQ and results pages, then contact the NBT project directly for the current process before submitting a request or paying.
What are common failure modes on the NBTs?
The official site does not publish a list of common failure modes. The practical risks shown on the site are procedural: not reading 'What to expect', ignoring the NBT Online Test Rules, or failing to review the instruction manual and videos. Use the sample questions to familiarise yourself with the tasks before test day.