What is a Good NBT Score in South Africa?
- Go Study Now
- May 28, 2025
- 2 min read
So you've taken or you're about to take the National Benchmark Test (NBT), and you're probably wondering, "What's a good score?" 🤔 Well, relax! We’re here to explain exactly what those numbers mean and what you should aim for.
Understanding the NBT Score Range 📊
Your NBT results typically range from 0 to 100, categorised broadly as:
Basic (below 38%)
Intermediate (38% to 69%)
Proficient (70% and above)
Most South African universities aim for students who score in the Intermediate to Proficient range. But remember—higher is always better!
What Do Universities Look For? 🏫
Each university and specific faculty might have slightly different expectations. Typically:
50%-60%: Adequate for less competitive programmes.
60%-70%: Strong for most general degree programmes.
70% and above: Excellent, making you a strong candidate for competitive courses like Medicine, Engineering, or Law.
Why Does Your NBT Score Matter? 🌟
Your NBT scores help universities gauge your academic readiness, ensuring you can handle the curriculum. A good NBT score can significantly boost your admission chances, especially in high-demand fields.
Tips to Score High on the NBT 💡
Let's boost that score! Here are some fun, practical tips to improve your NBT results:
Practice Regularly: Consistency is your BFF. Regular practice with past papers is the ultimate hack.
Time Management: Don't get stuck! Practice completing tests within the set time.
Understand the Format: Knowing the test structure helps reduce stress.
Target Weak Spots: Focus your revision on weaker areas to boost your overall score.
Common Myths About NBT Scores 🤯
Let’s bust some myths:
Myth 1: "You need a perfect score." Nope! Aim high, but even top programmes rarely expect 100%.
Myth 2: "You can't prepare for the NBT." Wrong again! Effective preparation can dramatically boost your score.
How to Interpret Your NBT Score 🧐
When you receive your results, don't just look at the number. Check the proficiency category and see how it aligns with your university choices. If you're borderline, extra preparation can make a big difference in a retake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 🙋♂️🙋♀️
Is 65% a good NBT score? Yes! For many programmes, especially general degrees, 65% is solid. But aim higher if you're targeting competitive fields.
Can I retake the NBT if I'm unhappy with my score? Absolutely! You can retake it, and your highest score is typically the one considered by universities.
What if I score below 50%? Don't panic! Some programmes might still consider your application. Focus on improving your weaker areas and consider a retake.
Ready to Aim Higher? 🎯🚀
Now that you know what's a good NBT score, it's time to aim high! The Go Study Now app has everything you need to prep smarter, not harder.
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