The NBT dates for 2025 have been announced! If you’re a matric learner who is planning on studying in the year 2026, it’s time to pay attention. The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are your key to getting into university next year, meaning it’s vital to take note of the key dates that dictate when and where you will be able to write.
Wondering where to find the NBT dates for 2025? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Below, we’ve outlined all the dates you need to be aware of when it comes to the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) in 2025.
Key takeaways
- The National Benchmark Test (NBT) assesses the capabilities of learners who are applying to tertiary institutions.
- Registration for the NBT can be done online on the NBT website.
- Nearly all public universities require learners to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
- NBT test dates range from early May to the end of January the following year.
- Learners can check their results by logging into their online account.
Table of Contents
What Does NBT Stand For?
NBT stands for National Benchmark Test, which refers to the assessments that learners are required to take by tertiary institutions in order to measure their educational capabilities.
The NBT consists of two main tests: the Academic and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test and the Mathematics (MAT) test:
- Academic and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) Test: This exam spans 3 hours and comprises multiple-choice questions. It evaluates a student’s aptitude in reading, writing, and logical reasoning within an academic framework. Additionally, it gauges their competence in fundamental mathematical principles and abilities.
- Mathematics Test (MAT): The MAT is also a 3-hour multiple-choice assessment. It focuses on testing a student’s grasp of mathematical concepts, encompassing algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Why is the NBT Important?
Scoring well on the NBT is crucial for gaining admission to many universities and colleges in South Africa. The results help institutions determine whether students have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen academic programmes. Therefore, it’s essential for aspiring students to prepare thoroughly and perform to the best of their abilities on the test.
Where Can You Register to Write the NBT?
Registration for the NBT can be done online through the official NBT website. Keep in mind that registration deadlines may vary depending on the test date you choose, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest information provided by the NBT authorities.
Which Universities Require NBT for 2025?
There are a number of universities and colleges in South Africa that require prospective students to take the NBT as part of their admission process. Some institutions may use the NBT results to determine eligibility for specific programmes or to place students in appropriate courses.
Wondering if your institution made the cut? Let’s check out the list of universities that include the NBT as part of their admission process:
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- North-West University (NWU)
- Rhodes University (RU)
- Stellenbosch University (Maties)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of Pretoria (TUKS)
- University of Venda for Science and Technology (Univen)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
- University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
NBT Test Dates for 2025
You’ve registered for your National Benchmark Test (NBT) and are ready to take a look at those test dates. Great! Here is the list of NBT test dates for 2025:
NBT Test Dates
Last Day to Register Online
Last Day to Pay Fees
Results Available to Institutions
Results Available to Applicants
10 May
20 April
28 April
2 June
9 June
17 May
27 April
5 May
9 June
17 June
31 May
11 May
19 May
23 June
30 June
7 June
18 May
26 May
30 June
7 July
8 June
18 May
26 May
30 June
7 July
21 June
1 June
9 June
14 July
21 July
28 June
8 June
16 June
21 July
28 July
5 July
15 June
23 June
28 July
4 August
6 July
15 June
23 June
28 July
4 August
12 July
22 June
30 June
4 August
11 August
19 July
29 June
7 July
11 August
18 August
26 July
6 July
14 July
18 August
25 August
2 August
13 July
21 July
25 August
1 September
3 August
13 July
21 July
25 August
1 September
16 August
27 July
4 August
8 September
15 September
23 August
3 August
11 August
15 September
22 September
30 August
10 August
18 August
22 September
29 September
6 September
17 August
25 August
29 September
6 October
13 September
24 August
1 September
6 October
13 October
27 September
7 September
15 September
20 October
27 October
4 October
14 September
22 September
27 October
3 November
11 October
21 September
29 September
3 November
10 November
10 January
7 December
15 December
2 February
9 February
Online NBT Dates for 2025
Online sessions for the 2025 NBTs will take place throughout the remainder of the year and occur on a Monday, so be sure to plan your week accordingly. Eager to find out when the 2025 online NBT sessions will occur? Let’s take a look:
- Monday, 10 May
- Monday, 21 June
- Monday, 26 July
- Monday, 4 October
How to Book Your NBT
Applying for your NBT is a straightforward process, and you can find the steps required to book your NBT below:
- Visit www.nbt.ac.za
- Click on ‘Book a test’
- Review the requirements listed below to prepare for registration
- Enter your personal details
- Fill in your contact information
- Choose your desired test venue and date
- Complete the survey
- Make the payment for your test
Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive confirmation of your test booking along with any additional instructions or requirements. Be sure to double-check your booking details to avoid any misunderstandings or complications on the day of the test.
Check the Results of Your NBT
Wondering how to view your NBT test results? You can access your results by logging in to the NBT website with your ID number as the username and the password you set during registration. Alternatively, you can request your results by emailing nbt@uct.ac.za four weeks after the test session.
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