Academic and Quantitative Literacy
AQL combines reading and reasoning with numbers. It includes interpreting academic text, tables, graphs and quantitative information.
National Benchmark Tests
Prepare for
AQL and MAT.
Practise the reading, reasoning and Mathematics skills tested in the NBTs. Start with free lessons, then explore recorded Mathematics courses if you want more structure.
Know the tests
Two tests. Different skills.
Mathematics
MAT tests how you apply mathematical knowledge to problems. Your programme determines whether you need it; when both tests are required, AQL and MAT are written on the same day.
Free preparation
Learn at your own pace.
SmartPrep's YouTube channel includes AQL and Mathematics preparation. Choose the lessons relevant to the tests you need.
AQL lessons
Comprehension, vocabulary, interpreting graphs and explaining the reasoning behind an answer.
Mathematics lessons
Topic revision, exemplar questions and worked practice problems.
Recorded Mathematics courses
Work through a structured course.
These are recorded resources for self-paced study. Check the current course description and price in the learning marketplace before purchasing.
Mathematics practice and worked solutions
Recorded explanations and worked questions to support Mathematics practice.
Official NBT tests are confidential and are not released as past papers. Use practice materials and the official exemplar questions to prepare.
Mathematics for NBT
A recorded Mathematics course for students who want to work through the content in sequence.
Plan your preparation
Start with your test requirements.
- 01
Check your requirements
Confirm which tests your university and programme require, and when they need your results.
- 02
Try practice questions
Use free lessons and the official exemplar questions to get familiar with the question types.
- 03
Review your answers
Identify the concepts, reading skills or calculations you need to practise, then work under time.
- 04
Choose further support
Continue with free lessons or choose a recorded Mathematics course if you want a structured sequence.
Bursary support
Ask whether your bursary covers a course.
Supported bursaries may pay for recorded marketplace courses, including NBT preparation. Ask your bursary manager whether the course is covered. We can help confirm the payment route or provide a quote for approval.
Explore bursary fundingBefore you prepare
Questions about the NBTs
Confirm current dates and admissions rules with the NBT Project and your university.
That depends on the university, faculty and programme. Each institution decides which test you must write and its deadline. Check the current prospectus or admissions page for every programme you are applying to.
AQL combines Academic Literacy and Quantitative Literacy. MAT is the Mathematics test and is written by applicants to programmes for which mathematics is required. Your university and faculty decide which tests you need.
Yes. Start with SmartPrep's free NBT lessons on YouTube and the NBT Project's official exemplar questions. Recorded Mathematics courses are available if you want a structured sequence and worked practice questions.
The NBT Project allows two attempts within a testing cycle. Not every university accepts a second result. If you repeat MAT, you must also repeat AQL on the same day. Check the official rules at https://www.nbt.ac.za/node/27 and your university's policy before booking again.
Your bursary may cover a recorded NBT course. Ask your bursary manager whether it is covered. Visit our bursary funding page for help with payment or a quote for approval.