NTS Test Explained: NAT, GAT and Where They Are Used

If someone tells you to sit the NTS test, first know there is no single NTS test. NTS (National Testing Service) is the organisation, and NAT, GAT and recruitment tests are its separate exams. Name the exact test before you prepare.

What is NTS and what does it run?

NTS (National Testing Service) is a Pakistani testing body that builds and conducts standardized MCQ-based tests. It serves university admissions, scholarships, recruitment and promotions. So NTS test is an umbrella term. Always name the exact exam: NAT, GAT General, GAT Subject or a recruitment test.

Many universities and degree-awarding institutes accept an NTS score instead of running their own entry test. One result can therefore work at several institutions. Always check that your target university accepts the exact test you plan to sit.

Which NTS tests exist: NAT, GAT General, GAT Subject?

Three admission tests sit under NTS, plus recruitment tests for jobs. NAT serves undergraduate (BS) admissions. GAT General serves MS and MPhil admissions. GAT Subject serves PhD admissions. Recruitment tests serve hiring, and their rules come from the hiring advertisement, not from the admission pages.

NAT-I and NAT-II are the two NAT categories, not separate brands. NAT-I (Category One) covers 12 years of education with 90 questions in 120 minutes. NAT-II (Category Two) covers 14 years of education with 100 questions in 120 minutes.

What is the NAT pattern in brief?

NAT is an MCQ test with English, analytical reasoning, quantitative reasoning and a subject section tied to your group. Category One runs 90 questions and Category Two runs 100 questions, both in 120 minutes. For the full per-type splits, subject details and preparation method, read our dedicated NAT test guide rather than treating this overview as the deep dive.

What are GAT General and GAT Subject for?

GAT General is the postgraduate aptitude test for MS and MPhil admissions. GAT Subject is the field-specific test for PhD admissions.

How do you check NTS fees and dates?

NTS publishes the current registration fee, deadlines and the full schedule on nts.org.pk, and those change every cycle. For NAT specifics, our NAT test guide carries the latest verified 2026 table and fee.

Preparing for NAT? Choose your category in our NAT syllabus guide, then attempt the worked sample questions.