What is the NAT Test?

The National Aptitude Test (NAT) is an admission aptitude test conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) Pakistan for students seeking admission to participating universities and degree-awarding institutes (DAIs).

Instead of taking a separate aptitude test for every NTS-associated institution, a candidate can use a valid NAT result when applying to universities that accept the relevant NAT subject group. However, candidates must still apply separately to each university according to its admission announcement and requirements.

According to NTS, the NAT result remains valid for one year.

The NAT is designed for candidates with different educational backgrounds. NTS currently divides NAT papers into two major categories:

• Category One: Candidates with 12 years of education

• Category Two: Candidates with 14 years of education

Why is the NAT Test Important?

NAT is important for students who want to continue their higher education at universities that accept NTS NAT scores.

The test measures different abilities, including:

• English language skills

• Analytical reasoning

• Quantitative reasoning

• Subject-specific knowledge

The exact distribution depends on the NAT type selected by the candidate.

A good NAT score can help students meet the admission test requirement of participating universities, but admission is not automatically guaranteed. Candidates must satisfy the individual university's eligibility criteria, merit requirements and admission deadlines.

Who Conducts the NAT Test?

The NAT is conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) Pakistan.

NTS develops and administers several types of standardized tests, including:

• NAT

• GAT-General

• GAT-Subject

NTS also conducts paper-based and computer-based tests for different purposes.

NAT Test Eligibility

NAT eligibility depends on the type of paper and the educational background of the candidate.

Generally:

• NAT Category One is designed for candidates with 12 years of education.

• NAT Category Two is designed for candidates with 14 years of education.

Candidates should select the NAT paper that corresponds to their academic group and intended field of study.

Category One NAT Papers

Category One includes:

• NAT-IE – Pre-Engineering

• NAT-IM – Pre-Medical

• NAT-IA – Arts

• NAT-ICS – Computer Science

• NAT-IGS – General Science

• NAT-ICOM – Commerce

Category Two NAT Papers

Category Two includes:

• NAT-IIA – Art & Humanities

• NAT-IIB – Biological Sciences

• NAT-IIM – Management Sciences

• NAT-IIP – Physical Sciences

• NAT-IIO – Oriental & Islamic Studies

The exact eligibility and admission requirements can vary by university, so students should always check the admission advertisement of the institution where they intend to apply.

NAT Test Categories

Category One – 12 Years Education

Category One is intended for candidates having 12 years or equivalent education.

The six Category One papers are:

1. NAT-IE – Pre-Engineering

2. NAT-IM – Pre-Medical

3. NAT-IA – Arts

4. NAT-ICS – Computer Science

5. NAT-IGS – General Science

6. NAT-ICOM – Commerce

Each Category One paper contains 90 questions, and the official test time is 120 minutes.

Category Two – 14 Years Education

Category Two is intended for candidates having 14 years or equivalent education.

The five Category Two papers are:

1. NAT-IIA – Art & Humanities

2. NAT-IIB – Biological Sciences

3. NAT-IIM – Management Sciences

4. NAT-IIP – Physical Sciences

5. NAT-IIO – Oriental & Islamic Studies

Each Category Two paper contains 100 questions, and the official test time is 120 minutes.

NAT Paper Pattern

The NAT paper pattern depends on the candidate's educational group.

Category One General Structure

The general Category One structure is:

• English: 20 questions

• Analytical: 20 questions

• Quantitative: 20 questions

• Subject: 30 questions

• Total: 90 questions

• Time: 120 minutes

For example, NAT-IE contains English, Analytical, Quantitative, Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics questions.

NAT-IM contains English, Analytical, Quantitative, Physics, Chemistry and Biology questions.

NTS provides separate curricula for the different NAT types.

Category Two Structure

For Category Two, the distribution changes according to the subject group.

For example, NAT-IIA contains:

• English: 20 questions

• Analytical: 15 questions

• Quantitative: 15 questions

• Subject: 50 questions

Other Category Two papers have different distributions according to their subject groups.

NAT-IE Paper Pattern

NAT-IE is designed for candidates from the Pre-Engineering group.

Its official structure is:

Test Duration: 120 minutes

The English section includes:

• Sentence completion

• Analogy

• Antonyms

• Comprehension

• Synonyms

The analytical section includes scenario-based and statement-based questions.

The quantitative section includes:

• Arithmetic

• Algebra

• Geometry

NAT-IM Paper Pattern

NAT-IM is designed for the Pre-Medical group.

The official distribution includes:

Test Duration: 120 minutes

Biology carries a larger share of the subject section in NAT-IM.

NAT-IA Paper Pattern

NAT-IA is intended for candidates from the Arts group.

The subject section includes:

• Islamiyat/Ethics

• Pakistan Studies

• General Knowledge

The complete paper contains 90 questions, and the test time is 120 minutes.

NAT-ICS Paper Pattern

NAT-ICS is designed for candidates with a Computer Science background.

The subject section includes:

• Physics

• Computer

• Mathematics

The Computer portion covers areas such as:

• Introduction to computers

• Programming skills

• Fundamentals of databases

NAT-IGS Paper Pattern

NAT-IGS is designed for candidates from the General Science group.

The subject section includes:

• Mathematics

• Statistics

• Economics

The paper contains 90 questions, with 120 minutes allowed.

NAT-ICOM Paper Pattern

NAT-ICOM is designed for candidates from the Commerce group.

The subject section includes:

• Accounting

• Commerce

• Economics

The complete paper consists of 90 questions, with a 120-minute time limit.

How Long is the NAT Test?

The official NAT test duration is 120 minutes, or two hours.

• Category One: 90 questions

• Category Two: 100 questions

• Test duration: 120 minutes

Because the test is time-limited, candidates should practice solving MCQs quickly and accurately.

NAT Test Fee

According to the current NTS NAT information:

• Regular NAT Fee: Rs. 1,510

• Late Fee: Rs. 2,010

NTS lists payment options including:

• 1Link 1Bill participating banks

• ATMs

• Internet/mobile banking

• Easypaisa

• JazzCash

• TCS Express Counters

Applicable service charges may also apply.

Candidates should always check the latest fee displayed on the NTS registration portal before making payment.

NAT Registration Process

NAT registration is completed through the NTS online registration system.

Candidates generally need to:

1. Create an NTS account if they are new applicants.

2. Complete their personal information.

3. Upload a recent photograph.

4. Enter their academic information.

5. Select the NAT project.

6. Select the appropriate NAT paper.

7. Select a test city.

8. Download the NAT bank deposit slip.

9. Pay the required test fee.

10. Complete and submit the application.

11. Check the NTS website for eligibility information.

12. Download the roll number slip when it becomes available.

NTS states that registration is one-time for the online portal, while candidates must apply for the particular NAT test they wish to take.

Incomplete or incorrectly completed information may result in the application not being processed.

NAT Test Dates 2026

NTS has published a 2026 NAT schedule containing multiple tests throughout the year.

The scheduled tests include NAT-I through NAT-XII.

Important later-2026 dates include:

• NAT-IX: September 13, 2026

• NAT-X: October 11, 2026

• NAT-XI: November 15, 2026

• NAT-XII: December 13, 2026

Candidates should verify the current schedule, deadlines and any changes directly through NTS before applying.

NAT Result Validity

The NAT result is valid for one year.

This means a candidate can use the valid NAT result when applying to relevant participating universities during its validity period, subject to each university's own admission requirements and deadlines.

NAT Associated Universities

NAT is accepted by a range of NTS-associated universities and degree-awarding institutes.

Examples listed by NTS include institutions such as:

• FAST

• NAMAL University

• National Textile University

• University of Peshawar

• University of Gujrat

• University of Management & Technology

The list can change, so candidates should check the current NTS-associated universities list and the individual university's admission advertisement before applying.

NAT Test Cities

NTS provides NAT test centres in a number of cities across Pakistan.

The listed cities include:

• Faisalabad

• Islamabad

• Karachi

• Lahore

• Multan

• Peshawar

• Quetta

• Rawalpindi

• Bahawalpur

• Dera Ghazi Khan

• Gujranwala

• Hyderabad

• Sukkur

• Mirpur

• Muzaffarabad

• Khuzdar

• Gilgit

• Skardu

• Abbottabad

• Chakdara

• Chitral

• Dhodial

• Kohat

• Mardan

• Swabi

• Gujrat

• Rahim Yar Khan

• Sargodha

• Sialkot

• Larkana

• Nawabshah

• Tandojam

NTS notes that some optional test cities are subject to a minimum number of registered fee-paid candidates.

NAT Roll Number Slip

NTS states that the roll number slip is uploaded on its website before the test, and an SMS notification is also sent to the applicant's provided mobile number.

Candidates should:

1. Check the NTS website.

2. Download the roll number slip.

3. Print the slip.

4. Check the test centre.

5. Check the reporting time.

6. Read all instructions carefully.

What to Take to the NAT Test Centre?

Candidates should take their valid roll number slip to the test centre.

NTS test-day instructions state that candidates must produce their roll number slip at the entrance.

Candidates should also follow the stationery instructions given on the roll number slip and test instructions.

What is Not Allowed in the NAT Test?

NTS specifically states that candidates should not bring:

• Mobile phones

• Calculators

• Wrist watches with calculators

Candidates should carefully read all instructions printed on their roll number slip before appearing in the test.

NAT Test Preparation

Effective NAT preparation requires preparation in four major areas:

1. English

2. Analytical Reasoning

3. Quantitative Reasoning

4. Subject Knowledge

The amount of time devoted to each section should depend on the official paper pattern of the NAT type selected by the candidate.

How to Prepare English for NAT?

English preparation should focus on the areas included in the official curriculum.

Important areas include:

• Synonyms

• Antonyms

• Analogies

• Sentence completion

• Reading comprehension

• Vocabulary

• Basic grammar

Students should practice MCQs rather than simply memorizing vocabulary.

Reading English newspapers, articles and short passages can also improve comprehension speed.

How to Prepare Analytical Reasoning?

Analytical reasoning questions test the candidate's ability to understand information, identify relationships and reach logical conclusions.

Candidates should practice:

• Statements

• Scenarios

• Ordering

• Arrangements

• Relationships

• Conditions

• Logical deductions

• Problem-solving questions

The best strategy is to solve questions regularly and analyze mistakes after every practice session.

How to Prepare Quantitative Section?

Quantitative preparation should focus on the official curriculum.

Important areas include:

• Arithmetic

• Percentages

• Fractions

• Ratios

• Proportions

• Averages

• Profit and loss

• Speed, distance and time

• Basic equations

• Algebra

• Geometry

Candidates should practice solving calculations without spending too much time on one question.

How to Prepare the Subject Section?

The subject section should receive special attention because it represents a significant portion of many NAT papers.

Candidates should first identify the subjects included in their NAT type.

For NAT-IE, students should focus on:

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Mathematics

For NAT-IM, students should focus on:

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

For NAT-ICS, candidates should prepare:

• Physics

• Computer Science

• Mathematics

A useful preparation cycle is:

Concepts → Topic-wise MCQs → Mixed MCQs → Mock Tests → Error Review

NAT Mock Tests

Mock tests are one of the most effective ways to prepare for NAT.

Candidates should attempt complete tests under the actual time limit.

After every mock test, identify:

• Questions answered incorrectly

• Questions guessed

• Questions taking too much time

• Weak topics

• Careless mistakes

• Topics requiring revision

The purpose of a mock test is not only to calculate a score but also to identify weaknesses.

NAT Time Management

Time management is extremely important.

For a 90-question paper with 120 minutes, candidates have approximately 1 minute and 20 seconds per question on average.

For a 100-question paper with 120 minutes, the average is approximately 1 minute and 12 seconds per question.

Candidates should avoid spending several minutes on a single difficult question.

A useful strategy is:

Round 1

Solve easy questions.

Round 2

Solve questions requiring moderate thinking.

Round 3

Return to difficult questions.

NAT Test-Day Strategy

On test day:

• Arrive at the centre before the reporting time.

• Keep your roll number slip ready.

• Read the instructions carefully.

• Do not bring prohibited electronic devices.

• Remain calm.

• Manage your time carefully.

If a question appears difficult, move forward and return to it later if the test instructions and format permit.

Common NAT Preparation Mistakes

Students commonly make the following mistakes:

• Preparing without checking the correct NAT type

• Ignoring the official paper pattern

• Studying only subject material

• Ignoring English

• Ignoring analytical reasoning

• Avoiding quantitative practice

• Not attempting mock tests

• Spending too much time on one question

• Not reviewing mistakes

• Starting preparation too late

• Depending only on memorized answers

• Failing to check university admission requirements

NAT vs University Admission

Passing NAT does not automatically mean admission to a university.

The candidate must still apply to the university according to its admission announcement.

Universities may have their own:

• Merit calculations

• Minimum marks

• Subject requirements

• Admission deadlines

• Additional admission requirements

Therefore, students should treat NAT as an important admission-test requirement rather than a complete guarantee of admission.

How to Get a Good NAT Score?

A strong NAT preparation plan should include:

• Understanding the paper pattern

• Studying the official syllabus

• Building concepts

• Practicing MCQs

• Taking timed mock tests

• Maintaining an error notebook

• Improving weak topics

• Practicing time management

• Revising important formulas and concepts

• Remaining calm during the test

Final Advice for NAT Candidates

The NAT is not simply a test of memorized information. It evaluates a combination of language ability, reasoning, quantitative skills and subject knowledge.

The best preparation approach is to understand the exact NAT paper first, then create a study plan according to the official question distribution.

Students should also remember that NAT acceptance depends on the university. Before applying, always verify whether the university and program accept the relevant NAT score.

For the latest registration information, test schedule, paper pattern, roll number slips and official updates, candidates should regularly check the NTS website.

Guide Information

Step-by-Step Process

1. Decide which university and program you want to apply for.

2. Check whether the university accepts the NTS NAT.

3. Check the university's required NAT subject group.

4. Check your educational background.

5. Identify whether you need Category One or Category Two.

6. Select the appropriate NAT paper.

7. Visit the official NTS website.

8. Create an NTS online registration account if you are a new user.

9. Complete your personal information.

10. Enter your contact information.

11. Enter your academic information.

12. Enter your board or university details.

13. Upload a recent photograph.

14. Log in to your NTS account.

15. Select the latest available NAT project.

16. Select your appropriate NAT paper.

17. Select your preferred primary test city.

18. Select a secondary test city where available.

19. Review your application information.

20. Download the official NAT bank deposit slip.

21. Check the fee amount shown on the deposit slip.

22. Pay the regular NAT fee before the normal deadline.

23. Use an available NTS payment method.

24. Keep proof of payment safely.

25. Complete all required online application fields.

26. Submit the application before the deadline.

27. Check your application status on the NTS website.

28. Monitor the NTS website for eligible-candidate information.

29. Check for your roll number slip.

30. Download the roll number slip when available.

31. Check your test date and reporting time.

32. Check the test centre address.

33. Read all test-day instructions.

34. Prepare according to the official NAT paper pattern.

35. Practice English MCQs.

36. Practice analytical reasoning MCQs.

37. Practice quantitative questions.

38. Prepare your subject-specific portion.

39. Attempt timed practice tests.

40. Review your mistakes.

41. Improve weak topics.

42. Prepare all required stationery.

43. Do not take prohibited electronic devices to the test centre.

44. Reach the test centre before the reporting time.

45. Show your roll number slip at the entrance.

46. Follow the invigilator's instructions.

47. Attempt easy questions first.

48. Manage the 120-minute test time carefully.

49. Review difficult questions if time permits.

50. Complete the answer sheet carefully.

51. Follow all instructions regarding question-booklet and answer-sheet marking.

52. Stay seated until the test staff gives permission to leave.

53. Check the NTS website for the result.

54. Download or obtain your NAT result card according to NTS procedures.

55. Apply separately to your target universities.

56. Submit the NAT result card where required.

57. Follow each university's admission schedule.

58. Complete any additional admission requirements.

59. Keep your NAT result available during its validity period.

60. Apply again in a future NAT session if your result expires or you need a new score.