The National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are designed to assess your academic preparedness for tertiary education. The initiative was established in 2005 by the HESA-commissioned National Benchmark Test Project.
If you’re considering taking the NBTs this year, you may be curious about their purpose. No need to worry, we’re here to provide you with all the details!
Our article addresses 7 common questions regarding the NBTs to assist you in preparing for your testing date.
Are you eager to learn about the NBTs? Let’s delve right in!
Seven (7) Frequently Asked Questions About the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)
- Are you wondering how to prepare for the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)?
Unfortunately, past papers for the NBTs are not available, and teachers cannot teach to the test. It’s worth noting that organisations claiming to offer NBT preparation lessons are not endorsed by the National Benchmark Test Project. However, the Project does provide exemplar questions on their website that you can use for practice.
- What if you forget your password for the National Benchmark Test Project website?
No problem! Simply follow these steps:
- go to “Book a Test,”
- click on Login
- enter your ID number as your username
- click on “Log in” without entering a password.
- When prompted with an unrecognized username or password message
- click on “Forgot your password?” and enter your email address.
- An email with instructions to reset your password will be sent to you.
- Can you change your NBT test date?
Yes, you can change your registration online until the closing date posted on the National Benchmark Test (NBT) schedule. Keep in mind that once registration closes for that test date, you can’t make any further changes. To change your test date, log in and click on Edit.
- Can you register two children using the same email address?
Unfortunately, the National Benchmark Test Project system only allows one email address per user. The best approach is to create separate email addresses for each child you want to register.
- How many times can you write the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)?
You can write two NBTs in one cycle (or one year). Remember, each university has its own rules regarding which results they accept, so check with the university to which you’re applying.
- Should you write the NBTs as late as possible in the year?
While teachers are provided with a pace-setter guide to ensure that certain topics are covered by certain dates, keep in mind that universities have application deadlines. You should write your NBTs at least three weeks before the close of their deadline to allow sufficient time for your results to be sent to them.
- What is the NBT pass mark?
Believe it or not, there is no pass or fail mark for the NBTs. Your marks are used by the university to which you’re applying to complement your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results and make a decision about access or placement based on a combination of the two.
If you still have questions about the NBTs, be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to the NBT for a full understanding of what they entail.