NTS NAT Test Pattern: Sections and Subjects Explained
Last updated October 31, 2026 · Prepared by ESAR Scholars Academy
The NTS NAT Category One tests are for candidates with 12 years of education. Published guides describe 90 MCQs in four sections: English (20), Analytical (20), Quantitative (20) and a subject section (30) that depends on your group. This page explains each section and test type. Always confirm the current rules at nts.org.pk.
The four sections
Section
MCQs
What it tests
English
20
Sentence completion, analogy, antonym, synonym and comprehension
Analytical
20
Scenario-based and statement-based reasoning questions
Quantitative
20
Arithmetic, algebra and geometry
Subject
30
Questions from your academic group (see below)
Total
90
Which test for which group
Test
Academic group
Subject section covers
NAT-IE
Pre-Engineering
Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics
NAT-IM
Pre-Medical
Physics, Chemistry and Biology
NAT-IA
Arts
Islamiyat/Ethics, Pakistan Studies and General Knowledge
NAT-ICS
Computer Science
Physics, Computer Skills (programming and database) and Mathematics
NTS-IGS
General Science
Mathematics, Statistics and Economics
NTS-ICOM
Commerce
Accounting, Commerce and Economics
The graduate test (GAT)
The NTS Graduate Assessment Test (GAT) is for candidates with a graduate-level education (16 years or more). Its general form focuses on verbal reasoning (English), quantitative reasoning (mathematics) and analytical reasoning.
Preparation tips for the analytical section
Process the rules and the facts together, never just one of them.
Replace long rules with short symbols so you do not re-read them.
Start with definite statements, then use negative clues only to fill the remaining gaps.
Read positions carefully: “right” allows people in between, while “immediately right” does not.
Solve the easy and moderate sets first and leave the complex ones for the end.
The number of questions, time limit, fees, dates, result validity and the tests an institution accepts can change between sessions. Published guides do not all agree on the time limit, so confirm it in the current official NTS announcement at nts.org.pk before you plan your preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NTS NAT test?
NAT is an aptitude and subject test run by the National Testing Service (NTS) in Pakistan and used by many institutions for admission. Category One tests are for candidates with 12 years of education.
How many MCQs are in a Category One NTS test?
Published guides describe 90 MCQs: English 20, Analytical 20, Quantitative 20 and a subject section of 30 questions that depends on the test type.
Which NTS test should I take?
It depends on your group and the institution: for example NAT-IE for pre-engineering and NAT-IM for pre-medical. Check which test and score your institution accepts before registering.
How long is the test, and what is the passing score?
Guides disagree on the time limit, and requirements change between sessions, so confirm the time limit, fees, dates and validity in the official NTS announcement at nts.org.pk.
Does ESAR Scholars Academy offer NTS mock tests?
ESAR does not have a dedicated NTS mock test. Its English grammar guide and its verbal and non-verbal intelligence practice help build related reasoning skills.