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Best Universities with Minimum Grades That Accept NBT Scores 🇿🇦

What Are NBTs and Why Do They Matter?


The National Benchmark Tests assess your academic readiness for university. There are three components:


  • Academic Literacy (AL): Understanding and analysing written academic texts 📖

  • Quantitative Literacy (QL): Applying everyday maths to practical problems 🔢

  • Mathematics (MAT): Higher-level maths needed for science, commerce, and tech degrees ➗


These scores help universities understand how prepared you are — not just what marks you’ve earned at school.


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🏛️ Universities That Require NBT Scores


Many of South Africa’s leading universities use NBTs to help them decide who to admit. Some require them for specific courses, while others expect all applicants to write.


✅ Here’s a breakdown:

  • UCT – NBT required for all applicants

  • Stellenbosch University – NBT compulsory

  • Wits – Required for most faculties, especially Health Sciences and Humanities

  • Rhodes University – NBT forms part of the selection process

  • UP (Pretoria) – Required for Health/Vet Sciences & others

  • UJ (Johannesburg) – Some faculties require NBTs

  • UKZN – Required for Medicine and others

  • NMU (Nelson Mandela) – Depends on faculty

  • UWC (Western Cape) – NBT required

  • UFS (Free State) – NBT used in admissions

  • University of Limpopo, Venda, Zululand, Mpumalanga, VUT, WSU, Sol Plaatje University – All require NBTs for at least some programmes


📌 Always check each university’s website for specific requirements and updated policies.



🎯 What Grades Do You Need?


While NBTs are important, they work alongside your school marks. Here’s a general idea of what you’ll need:

  • Bachelor’s degree: NSC with 4 subjects at 50% or more (Level 4)

  • Diploma: NSC with 4 subjects at 40–49% (Level 3)

  • Certificate: Often accepts lower scores — check each course


⚠️ Competitive courses (like Medicine, Law, Engineering) may require higher NBT scores and better marks.



🚀 How to Improve Your Chances of Admission


Make your application stand out with these tips:

  1. Prepare for the NBTs – Start early and use the right tools

  2. Keep school marks up – Both are considered together

  3. Get involved – Community service, sports, clubs = bonus points

  4. Craft a strong personal statement – Show who you are and why you belong

  5. Ask for good recommendations – From teachers, coaches, mentors


📲 Use the Go Study Now app to practise quizzes, build confidence, and prep for the NBT with real-style questions. It’s totally free.



💡 Final Thoughts


University applications can feel overwhelming — but understanding how NBTs work gives you a serious edge. Know what’s required, plan ahead, and prepare smartly.


Whether you’re aiming for UCT or UP, Medicine or Teaching, your path starts here.


📝 Get your school marks right, sharpen your NBT prep, and stay focused on your goals.


📲 Download the Go Study Now app to start practicing with real NBT-style questions today. Confidence begins with preparation. 💪

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