Understanding National Benchmark Test (NBT) Costs and Payment Options

Understanding the Cost of National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) and Payment Methods

If you’re planning to attend university in South Africa, you might need to take the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs). These tests help universities understand your readiness for higher education. Knowing how much they cost and how to pay is an important step in your application process.

What Are the National Benchmark Tests?

The NBT Project administers a set of tests designed to assess key skills for university study. There are two main tests: the Core Maths (MAT) test and the Academic Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test. Both are multiple-choice exams, and you typically have three hours to complete them. The AQL test assesses your ability to understand and use academic language and quantitative information. The MAT test focuses on your mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

NBT Costs and What They Cover

The fees for the NBTs are set to cover the administration and scoring of the tests. As of the information available, the costs are structured as follows:

• AQL Test Only: R125
• AQL and MAT Tests: R250

It’s important to note that you cannot take only the MAT test. If you need to write the MAT test, you must also take the AQL test. This means the combined AQL and MAT test fee is the standard for students needing to assess both academic literacy and mathematical skills.

How to Pay for Your NBTs

Paying for your NBTs is designed to be straightforward. The primary method for payment is through EasyPay. EasyPay has numerous pay points located across South Africa in major food stores like Pick N Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, and Spar, as well as other retail locations. To make a payment, you will need your NBT registration letter. Simply take this letter to an EasyPay Paypoint and complete the transaction.

You also have the option to pay online through the EasyPay website. After making your payment online, you can print out your receipt as proof of purchase.

Alternative Payment Methods for Specific Circumstances

For students who are not in South Africa or live in areas where EasyPay facilities or online payment options are not accessible, alternative payment methods are available. These include direct deposit or Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) directly to the NBT Project.

The details for direct deposit or EFT are:

• Bank: Standard Bank
• Account Name: UCT
• Account Number: 071503854
• Branch Code: 025009
• Reference: NBT231500
• IBAN / SWIFT Code: SBZAZAJJ

If you use these direct payment methods, it is crucial to send confirmation of your payment. You can send this confirmation via FAX to 021-650-5331 or email it to [email protected] Your confirmation should include your 14-digit NBT Reference Number, your full name, and your ID number. Without proof of payment, your NBT scores will not be released.

What Happens if a Test Session is Cancelled?

In situations where the NBT Project cancels or reschedules a test session for any reason, such as changes in health risk levels like those seen with Covid-19, you will not be required to pay again to write the rescheduled test. The original payment will cover your attendance at the new date.

Conclusion

The National Benchmark Tests are a key part of the university application process for many South African institutions. Understanding the costs, which are R125 for the AQL test and R250 for both AQL and MAT tests, and knowing the available payment methods through EasyPay or direct deposit is essential. Ensure you keep proof of payment, especially if using alternative methods, to guarantee your scores are processed.