The NBT dates for 2026 have been announced! If you’re a matric learner who is planning on studying in the year 2027, 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 2026.
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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 2026?
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 2026:
NBT Test Dates
Last Day to Register Online
Last Day to Pay Fees
Results Available to Institutions
Results Available to Applicants
9 May
19 April
27 April
1 June
8 June
16 May
26 April
4 May
8 June
15 June
30 May
10 May
18 May
22 June
29 June
6 June
17 May
25 May
29 June
6 July
7 June
17 May
25 May
29 June
6 July
20 June
31 May
8 June
13 July
20 July
27 June
7 June
15 June
20 July
27 July
4 July
15 June
22 June
27 July
3 August
5 July
15 June
22 June
27 July
3 August
11 July
21 June
29 June
3 August
10 August
18 July
28 June
6 July
10 August
17 August
25 July
5 July
13 July
17 August
24 August
1 August
12 July
20 July
24 August
31 August
2 August
12 July
20 July
24 August
31 August
15 August
26 July
3 August
7 September
14 September
22 August
2 August
10 August
14 September
21 September
29 August
9 August
17 August
21 September
28 September
5 September
16 August
24 August
28 September
5 October
12 September
23 August
31 August
5 October
12 October
26 September
6 September
14 September
19 October
26 October
3 October
13 September
21 September
26 October
2 November
10 October
20 September
28 September
2 November
9 November
9 January
6 December
14 December
1 February
8 February
Online NBT Dates for 2026
Online sessions for the 2026 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 2026 online NBT sessions will occur? Let’s take a look:
- Monday, 20 June
- Monday, 25 July
- Monday, 5 September
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.
Fund Your Studies with Fundi
If you’ve been accepted to study at your chosen tertiary institution—whether it’s a private college, university, university of technology or TVET—you’ll need to acquire funding for your studies. Luckily, Fundi offers funding to students looking to study in 2027. The allowances covered by Fundi include textbooks, tuition, electronics and more.
Try out our Fundi student loan calculator to see what your estimated instalments will be, and how we can make your dream of studying at a tertiary institution into a reality.
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