NMU NBT Requirements 2027: Official Admission Policy
If you plan to study at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) in 2027, you need a clear understanding of the university’s admissions policies.
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One of the most common questions learners ask is whether the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) are required for entry into undergraduate programmes.
NBTs are national assessments of academic and quantitative readiness used by some universities in South Africa to support placement and selection.
Do You Need to Write the NBT for NMU?
No. Most programmes at Nelson Mandela University do not require the National Benchmark Test (NBT) for admission in 2027.
NMU’s official entry requirements focus on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results and an Applicant Score (AS) based on those results.
According to NMU’s prospectus and admissions guides, the majority of undergraduate qualifications do not require NBT results.
Only a very small number of programmes list NBT results as a requirement. If your programme requires the NBT, you must register and write the test.
Faculties or Programmes That May Require NBT Results
Nelson Mandela University’s official documents state that most programmes do not need NBT results, but a small number do.
The admissions information does not publish a comprehensive list of these programmes, so you should always check the programme‑specific entry requirements in the official 2027 NMU prospectus.
It is important to note the following:
- Most faculties at NMU do not list the NBT as part of the admission requirements.
- Some niche or specialised programmes may require NBT results, depending on faculty policy or accreditation needs. If your programme requires the NBT, this will be clearly stated in the official entry criteria.
Examples of faculties where applicants should always check closely include those with competitive or specialised entry processes, such as professional fields.
If you are unsure whether the NBT is required for a specific NMU programme, consult the university’s official Study at Mandela entry requirements page or the 2027 prospectus before applying.
Comparison Between NBT Scores and APS/Applicant Scores
- APS / Applicant Score (AS)
At NMU, the main measure used to decide admission eligibility is your Applicant Score (AS). This is calculated from your NSC results.
Your AS reflects your achievement in your best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation), including English, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and other required subjects specified by the programme.
- NBT Scores
The National Benchmark Tests assess your academic literacy and quantitative literacy skills.
They are not a measure of your matriculation performance but instead test general academic readiness.
If required by a university, your NBT results are sent to institutions for consideration.
How The NBT and APS Compare
In simple terms, your AS from your matric results is what matters most for admission at NMU.
NBT results typically do not play a role unless your chosen programme explicitly needs them.
How to Register for the NBT
If you are applying to NMU and also to one of the few programmes that require NBT results, or if you are applying to other universities that do require them, you can register for the test as follows:
- Visit the National Benchmark Test Project website.
- Create an account using your personal details and identification (South African ID or passport).
- Select a test session that fits your application timeline.
- Enter your preferred test venue and date.
- Complete payment using the EasyPay reference number provided during the booking process.
- You will receive confirmation of your test date and venue by email and SMS.
The NBT consists of two components: AQL (Academic and Quantitative Literacy) and MAT (Mathematics) if required.
If your programme needs only one test, ensure you book the correct component.
How NMU Admissions Work Beyond NBTs
Admission to Nelson Mandela University depends on several factors beyond whether you write the NBT:
- You must pass the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with the minimum requirements for the qualification level you are applying for (certificate, diploma, or degree).
- Your Applicant Score (AS) must meet or exceed the programme‑specific minimum.
- Some programmes may have subject prerequisites in subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences or Life Sciences. These are clearly listed in the official entry requirements.
Meeting the minimum NSC requirements and AS score does not automatically guarantee placement.
Selection is competitive and based on programme availability and your academic score relative to other applicants.
Bursaries and Financial Support at NMU
If you are accepted into Nelson Mandela University, various funding options can support your studies:
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): Government funding covering tuition, books, and living allowances for qualifying students.
- NMU Merit Awards: Financial awards for high‑performing learners based on academic results.
- External Bursaries: Various corporate, industry, and professional bursaries are available for students in specific fields.
Each bursary has its own eligibility criteria, closing dates, and application requirements.
Visit the NMU financial aid office or official bursaries page for the most up‑to‑date information.
