Applying for an NTS test in Pakistan involves a series of steps that can feel a bit overwhelming at first, especially for those doing it for the first time. The process begins by figuring out which specific test you need to apply for, such as NAT, GAT General, or GAT Subject. This information is usually mentioned in the admission or job advertisement. Once you’ve identified the correct test, the next step is to visit the official NTS online registration portal at datacell.nts.org.pk. You need to create an account using your CNIC number, email address, and mobile phone number.
This is a one-time registration, so be sure to enter accurate information and use contact details you can regularly access. After signing up, you log into your account and start filling out the application form, which asks for personal details, academic background, and your choice of test center. You also upload a recent passport-sized photograph following the required specifications. Once the form is complete, the system generates a bank deposit slip with a unique code and fee amount.
The next phase of the process is payment. You need to print the deposit slip and pay the exact fee amount at any of the listed banks such as MCB, HBL, UBL, or ABL. Once the payment is made, you must send the original deposit slip—not a photocopy—to the NTS headquarters in Islamabad using a reliable courier service. This is a crucial step because your registration will only be confirmed after the payment is received and verified.
About a week after submission, NTS releases a provisional list of eligible candidates. You are expected to check this list to ensure your name, CNIC, and test city are correctly entered. If anything appears wrong, you have a few days to file a correction request through the portal. After the correction window closes, NTS publishes a final list. Your roll number slip and test center details are made available at this stage. You must log in to your account, download the slip, and print it out. The slip is mandatory for entry into the test center.
As the test day approaches, it is important to be prepared in both administrative and practical terms. Make sure you bring your roll number slip and original CNIC with you to the test center. Know the exact location beforehand so you are not delayed. On the day itself, follow the instructions strictly, arrive early, and avoid bringing prohibited items like mobile phones.
After the test, NTS dispatches the result cards within a week. You can also view your result online using your account credentials. If the result card is delayed or there’s a mistake on it, you can contact NTS for corrections or reissuance. Throughout the process, you may run into issues like login errors, payment slip problems, or missing roll number slips.
In most cases, these can be resolved by using alternate browsers, checking your spam folder, or contacting the NTS helpline. Staying organized, keeping track of deadlines, and checking the website regularly are key to making sure nothing is missed.
Here is an extremely detailed, comprehensive, and user-friendly step-by-step guide on how to apply for an NTS test in Pakistan, along with an in-depth discussion of common issues faced during the process and effective troubleshooting methods. This document is designed to serve as a standalone resource for anyone interested in applying for an NTS test.
Step 1: Understand Which NTS Test You Need to Apply For
Before you start the application, it is critical to identify the exact NTS test required for your purpose. NTS conducts several types of tests, mainly:
NAT (National Aptitude Test): Required for admission to undergraduate (BS) and some graduate programs.
GAT General: Required for admission to graduate programs (MS/MPhil/PhD), scholarships, and some recruitment processes.
GAT Subject: For specialized PhD admissions, scholarships, or recruitment in specific fields.
How to confirm:
Check the admission or recruitment advertisement of the university or organization you are applying to. They will specify which test you need. You can also visit the official NTS website to see the list of announced projects/tests.
Step 2: Visit the Official NTS Online Registration Portal
Open your internet browser and go to the official NTS website
This portal is the only authorized platform to register for NTS tests online.
Bookmark this site for easy future access.
Step 3: Create Your NTS Online Account (One-Time Registration)
If you have never applied for an NTS test before, you must create an account:
Click on the Sign Up/Register button on the portal.
Enter your CNIC number (without dashes) exactly as it appears on your ID.
Provide your full name, date of birth, email address, and mobile phone number.
Choose a strong but memorable password. Remember it or keep it saved securely.
After submitting, you will receive a confirmation message. If you forget your password later, use the “Forgot Password” link to reset it via your registered email.
Important Tips:
Use your own CNIC. You cannot register with someone else’s CNIC.
Use a valid and frequently checked email address and phone number, as NTS may contact you for updates.
Step 4: Log In and Fill Out the Detailed Application Form
Once registered, log in to your account and proceed to fill the application form carefully.
Personal Information:
Full name (as per CNIC)
Father’s name
Date of birth
Gender
Nationality
Marital status (if required)
Contact Information:
Provide a complete postal address where you can reliably receive mail.
Include postal city and postal city district.
This address is crucial because your roll number slip and result card will be sent here via courier.
Academic Information:
Enter your academic qualifications accurately.
For each qualification, provide:
Degree name (e.g., Intermediate, Bachelor, Master)
Board or university name (use abbreviations like FBISE Islamabad, BISE Lahore, etc.)
Major subjects (write the main subjects you studied)
Percentage or marks secured (use two digits only, e.g., 75)
Year of passing
Employment Information:
If you are employed, fill in your job title, organization, and duration.
If not applicable, leave blank or select “No.”
Test Selection:
Choose the test you want to apply for (e.g., NAT, GAT General, GAT Subject).
Select your preferred test city (primary and secondary choices). This is where you will take the test.
Photograph Upload:
Upload a recent passport-size photograph.
The photo must show your full face clearly.
The file size and format must follow the portal’s instructions (usually JPG or PNG, with size limits).
Step 5: Download and Print the Bank Deposit Slip
After completing the form, the system will generate a bank deposit slip.
Download and print this slip.
The slip contains your name, CNIC, test name, fee amount, and a unique deposit code.
This slip is your payment voucher.
Step 6: Pay the Test Fee at the Bank
Take the printed bank deposit slip to any of the authorized bank branches listed on it. Common banks include:
MCB (Muslim Commercial Bank)
HBL (Habib Bank Limited)
UBL (United Bank Limited)
ABL (Allied Bank Limited)
Meezan Bank (for some tests)
Deposit the exact fee amount in cash.
Fees vary by test type and year, e.g.:
NAT: Approximately Rs. 700 to Rs. 1510
GAT General: Around Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2010
Keep the original bank deposit slip receipt safely; you will need to send it to NTS.
Step 7: Send the Original Bank Deposit Slip to NTS Headquarters
Send only the original bank deposit slip (no photocopies or other documents) to:
textNational Testing Service (NTS)
Plot # 96, Street # 4, H-8/1,
Islamabad, Pakistan
Use a reliable courier or postal service.
This step confirms your payment and completes your registration.
Step 8: Monitor the Provisional and Final Eligible Candidates Lists
Within about one week of receiving your deposit slip, NTS will publish a provisional eligible candidates list on their website.
Check this list to ensure your name and details are correct.
If you spot any errors (e.g., name misspelling, wrong test city), you can submit a query within 4 days.
After the query period, a final eligible candidates list will be published.
Your roll number slip and test center will be assigned at this stage.
Step 9: Download and Print Your Roll Number Slip
About 10 days before the test, NTS will dispatch roll number slips to your postal address.
You can also download the roll number slip from the NTS website by logging into your account.
Print the roll number slip and bring it with you on test day.
The slip contains your roll number, test center address, and test date/time.
Step 10: Prepare and Appear for the Test
On the test day, arrive at your test center early.
Bring your roll number slip and original CNIC or other valid photo ID.
Follow all instructions from the test center staff.
Sign the attendance sheet.
Complete the test within the allotted time.
Step 11: Receive Your Result Card
NTS will dispatch result cards via courier within 7 days after the test.
You can also check your result online by logging into your NTS account.
Use your result card for university admissions, scholarships, or recruitment as needed.
Common Issues and How to Troubleshoot Them Effectively
Issue 1: Trouble Creating an NTS Account
Problem: Portal does not accept CNIC or shows “already registered.”
Solution:
Double-check you entered your CNIC correctly without dashes or spaces.
If already registered, use the “Forgot Password” option to reset your password.
If you do not receive a reset email, check your spam folder or try registering with a different email.
Contact NTS helpline if the problem persists.
Issue 2: Difficulty Filling Out the Application Form
Problem: Form does not submit or shows errors.
Solution:
Ensure all mandatory fields are filled correctly.
Use abbreviations for boards/universities as instructed (e.g., FBISE Islamabad).
Enter percentages as two digits only (e.g., 75, not 75.5).
Upload a clear, recent photograph in the correct format and size.
Use a stable internet connection and a compatible browser (Chrome or Firefox recommended).
Clear browser cache or try a different device if errors persist.
Issue 3: Photograph Upload Problems
Problem: Photo upload fails or photo is rejected.
Solution:
Use a recent passport-size photo with full face exposure, no sunglasses or hats.
Ensure the file size and format meet portal requirements (usually JPG/PNG, max 100 KB).
Resize or compress the photo using free online tools if too large.
Avoid using mobile photos with filters or low resolution.
Issue 4: Bank Deposit Slip Not Generating or Printing
Problem: Unable to download or print the deposit slip.
Solution:
Make sure you have completed all form fields and submitted the application.
Use a PDF reader or browser print function to save the slip.
Try a different browser or device if the slip does not appear.
Contact NTS support if the slip is not generated after submission.
Issue 5: Bank Payment Issues
Problem: Bank refuses to accept payment or deposit slip is invalid.
Solution:
Use only the banks listed on the deposit slip (MCB, HBL, UBL, ABL, Meezan).
Ensure the deposit slip is printed clearly and has your unique code.
Pay the exact fee amount shown.
If the bank rejects the slip, request a new deposit slip from the portal.
Keep the original receipt after payment.
Issue 6: Sending Deposit Slip to NTS
Problem: Lost or delayed courier of deposit slip.
Solution:
Use a reliable courier service with tracking.
Send the slip well before the application deadline.
Do not send photocopies or other documents.
Retain a copy or photo of the slip before sending.
Issue 7: Name or Details Missing in Provisional List
Problem: Your name does not appear in the provisional eligible candidates list.
Solution:
Check if you sent the original deposit slip to NTS.
Verify that you applied before the deadline.
Submit a query on the NTS website within 4 days of the provisional list publication.
Contact NTS helpline for assistance.
Issue 8: Roll Number Slip Not Received
Problem: Roll number slip does not arrive by post.
Solution:
Download the roll number slip online from your NTS account.
Verify your postal address was correctly entered.
Contact NTS courier service or helpline if the slip is missing.
Issue 9: Test Day Issues
Problem: Test center confusion or denied entry.
Solution:
Verify test center address on your roll number slip well before test day.
Arrive early and bring original CNIC and roll number slip.
Follow instructions carefully; no electronic devices allowed.
If denied entry, contact NTS immediately via helpline.
Issue 10: Result Card Not Received or Result Issues
Problem: Result card delayed or incorrect.
Solution:
Check results online on the NTS website.
Confirm your postal address is correct.
Contact NTS for reissuance or correction if needed.
Final Recommendations
Always keep copies of all documents, deposit slips, and correspondence.
Use a permanent and reliable postal address.
Regularly check the official NTS website for updates, announcements, and lists.
Contact NTS helpline or email for unresolved issues.
Start your application process well before the deadline to avoid last-minute problems.
