Here’s how the NBT online test works

Here’s how the NBT online test works.If you are a matriculant who recently applied to study at one of South Africa’s public universities, then there is a chance that you will be required to sit for and write the National Benchmark Test. If you are curious as to how it works, read more to find out.

Test Format:

The NBT online test is a multiple-choice test.
There are two tests: the Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test and the Mathematics (MAT) test.
The AQL test is required for all applicants.
The MAT test is required for applicants to programs that require mathematics.

Test Schedule:

AQL test: 09h00 (morning session)
MAT test: 14h00 (afternoon session)

Test Rules:

The test is undertaken in a secure, proctored online environment.
You will be monitored throughout the test.
A working camera is required and must remain on for the duration of the test session.
The test session will be recorded.
You may only have a piece of paper and a pen/pencil in the test room.
Books, cell phones, smart watches, calculators, and any other items are strictly prohibited.

Technical Requirements:

Desktop/tower, Notebook/laptop, or iMac/Macbook are the only allowed devices.
Stable internet access and sufficient bandwidth or data are required.
Chrome and Firefox are the recommended browsers.
You must have administrator rights on the computer as you are required to download the Lockdown Browser software onto the computer.

Test Duration:

Each test is three hours long.

Additional Tips:

Ensure that you comply with all test requirements to avoid the invalidation of your test.
Choose a date earlier in the cycle to allow additional test dates in case you experience issues on a test day.
Note that learners without an official ID will not be able to complete the compulsory Simulation and will not be allowed to write the NBT online.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.