NTS NAT (IGS) Entry Test || Complete Guide

National Aptitude Test for General Science – Eligibility, Process, Syllabus & Free Online Practice Tests

The National Aptitude Test (NAT) is a standardized entrance examination conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) of Pakistan. It serves as a gateway for students seeking admission to undergraduate (4-year Bachelor's) programs at universities and degree-awarding institutes (DAIs) recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

The NAT IGS is a specific category of NAT-I designed for candidates who have completed their intermediate education in the General Science group and wish to pursue undergraduate degrees in fields like Computer Sciences, Management, Social Sciences, and other science-related disciplines.

If you are planning to apply for undergraduate admissions through NTS NAT IGS, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know:

• What is the NTS NAT IGS test and which programs accept it?

• Which universities accept NAT IGS?

• What are the eligibility criteria?

• How to apply for NTS NAT?

• What is the test pattern, number of MCQs, and time allowed?

• What is the complete syllabus?

• How can I practice NTS NAT IGS MCQs online for free?

Students who want to begin their preparation immediately can start with NTS Free Quiz , where hundreds of free chapter-wise quizzes are available to strengthen concepts and improve exam performance.

What is NTS NAT IGS?

NAT IGS is one of the six categories of NAT-I tests offered by NTS. The six NAT-I categories are:

• NAT-IA: Arts & Humanities Group

• NAT-IE: Pre-Engineering Group

• NAT-IM: Pre-Medical Group

• NAT-ICS: Computer Science Group

• NAT-ICOM: Commerce Group

• NAT-IGS: General Science Group

NAT IGS is specifically designed for candidates from the General Science background. The test includes subject-related questions from General Science along with aptitude-based sections.

The test is valid for one year from the date of result declaration. Candidates can appear for the test multiple times and use their best score for admissions.

Which Programs Accept NAT IGS?

NAT IGS is accepted for admission to a wide range of Bachelor's (4-year) programs in various disciplines. Common programs include:

• BS Computer Sciences

• BS Management Sciences

• BS Social Sciences

• BS English

• BS Psychology

• BS Media Studies

• BS International Relations

• BS Economics

• BS General Science programs

• And other science and humanities-related programs

NAT IGS is not for Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, or Commerce programs (unless specified by the university). Candidates for those fields must appear for NAT-IE, NAT-IM, or NAT-ICOM respectively.

Universities Accepting NAT IGS

NAT is accepted by numerous universities and degree-awarding institutes (DAIs) across Pakistan that are associated with NTS. Some of the well-known institutions that accept NAT IGS for undergraduate admissions include:

• Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), Islamabad

• COMSATS University, Islamabad – All Campuses

• FAST - National University of Computer & Emerging Sciences (NUCES) – All Campuses

• Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad

• National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) – selected programs

• Air University, Islamabad

• Bahria University, Islamabad

• International Islamic University, Islamabad (Department of Computer Science, Department of Electronics Engineering)

• Gomal University, D.I. Khan

• Government College University (GCU), Faisalabad

• Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore

• Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi

• National Textile University, Faisalabad

• University of Gujrat

• University of Peshawar

• University of Balochistan, Quetta

• Balochistan University of Information Technology & Management Sciences (BUITMS), Quetta

• Capital University of Science & Technology, Islamabad

• GIFT University, Gujranwala

• HITEC University, Taxila

• Institute of Management Sciences, Peshawar

• Institute of Southern Punjab, Multan

• NAMAL University, Mianwali

• National Defense University (NDU), Islamabad

• Riphah International University, Islamabad

• Sarhad University of Science & Information Technology, Peshawar

• The Superior College, Lahore

• University of Management & Technology (UMT), Lahore

• University of South Asia

• University of Science & Technology, Bannu

• CECOS University, Peshawar

• Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science & Technology

• Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat

• Center for Advanced Studies in Engineering (CASE)

• Dr. A.Q Khan Institute of Computer Sciences & Information Technology

• Karachi Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship (KITE)

• Imperial College of Business Studies

• Institute of Business & Management (IB&M) UET, Lahore

• Islamia University Bahawalpur

• Lahore Leads University

• Muslim Youth University (MY University), Islamabad

• National College of Business Administration & Economics (All Campuses)

• Qurtaba University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar

• Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Sheringal, Dir

• Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, Islamabad

• Sindh Madresatul Islam University, Karachi

• University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir

• University of Loralai

• University of Turbat

• University of Engineering & Technology, Peshawar

• University of Swat

• And many other public and private sector universities

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Candidates are advised to check the official admission advertisement of their desired university to confirm whether NAT IGS is accepted for their chosen program.

NTS NAT IGS Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for NAT IGS are clearly defined by NTS:

Educational Requirements

• 12 years of education (Intermediate / HSSC) in the General Science group

• Candidates with A-Level or equivalent qualifications must have IBCC equivalence certificate

• The test is not for candidates from Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, Commerce, Computer Science, or Arts backgrounds

Age Requirements

• No specific age limit is prescribed by NTS

• Candidates must meet the age requirements of the university they are applying to

Domicile Requirements

• Candidates from all provinces of Pakistan can apply

• Some universities may have specific domicile requirements – check the university's admission policy

Test Validity

• The NAT score is valid for one year from the date of result declaration

Other Requirements

• Candidates must have a valid CNIC/B-Form and a recent passport-size photograph

• Candidates must register online through the NTS Candidate Portal at portal.nts.org.pk

NTS NAT IGS Application Process

The application process for NTS NAT is conducted online through the NTS Candidate Portal.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

• Visit the Official NTS Website: www.nts.org.pk

• Create an Account: Click on the NTS Candidate Portal. Register with your email address and create a password. Complete your personal profile.

• Select the Test: Choose NAT-IGS (General Science) from the list of available tests. The test fee is typically around PKR 840 + service charges.

• Fill in the Application Form: Enter your personal details, academic information, and CNIC/B-Form number. Upload a recent passport-size photograph with a clear front face.

• Pay the Application Fee: Download the system-generated challan or deposit slip. Deposit the fee at any online branch of the designated bank. Keep the original NTS copy of the deposit slip.

• Submit Application: Review all information before final submission. Submit the online application form. For some tests, send the duly filled application form and original deposit slip by post or courier.

• Download Roll Number Slip: After successful submission and payment, download your roll number slip from the portal. Print the slip and bring it to the test center.

Test Schedule

• NTS NAT tests are conducted once or twice monthly

• The test is held at multiple centers across Pakistan

• Candidates can choose their preferred test date and center

Always verify exact dates and procedures on the official NTS website www.nts.org.pk .

NTS NAT IGS Test Pattern

NAT IGS is a paper-based exam consisting of 90 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to be completed in 120 minutes (2 hours).

Test Pattern Overview

• Total MCQs: 90

• Total Time: 120 minutes (2 hours)

• Test Mode: Paper-Based

• Negative Marking: None

• Total Marks: 90 (1 mark per MCQ)

• Test Validity: 1 year

Section-Wise Breakdown

• English: 20 MCQs

• Analytical Reasoning: 20 MCQs

• Quantitative Reasoning: 20 MCQs

• Subject Section (General Science): 30 MCQs

Subject Section Breakdown

• General Science: 30 MCQs

NTS NAT IGS Syllabus

The NTS NAT IGS syllabus is based on the intermediate (HSSC) General Science curriculum. Below is the chapter-wise breakdown for each section.

Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Practice Test .

English (20 MCQs)

The English section evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS English Practice Tests .

The English syllabus includes:

• Antonyms – Words with opposite meanings

• Comprehension – Reading comprehension passages

• Parts of Speech – Nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, etc.

• Subject Verb Agreement – Grammar rules for subject-verb agreement

• Synonyms – Words with similar meanings

• Tenses – Present, past, and future tenses

• Word Usage – Correct usage of words in sentences

• Sentence Completion – Fill in the blanks, vocabulary in context

• Analogy – Verbal analogies

Logical and Analytical Thinking (20 MCQs)

The Analytical Reasoning section tests logical thinking, relationships, and pattern recognition. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Logical and Analytical Thinking Practice Tests .

The Analytical Reasoning syllabus includes:

• Blood Relations – Family tree and relationship problems

• Cause and Effect – Identifying cause and effect relationships

• Coding and Decoding – Coding and decoding problems

• Course of Action – Determining appropriate actions

• Decision Making – Decision-making scenarios

• Direction and Distance – Direction and distance problems

• Logical Deduction – Drawing conclusions from premises

• Non-Verbal Reasoning – Pattern recognition and visual reasoning

• Ranking and Sequencing – Ranking and sequencing problems

• Seating Arrangement – Arrangement problems

• Series and Patterns – Number and letter series

• Statements and Arguments – Evaluating arguments

• Statements and Assumptions – Identifying assumptions

• Statements and Conclusions – Drawing conclusions

• Syllogism – Logical syllogisms

Quantitative Reasoning (20 MCQs)

The Quantitative Reasoning section covers basic mathematical concepts. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Quantitative Reasoning Practice Tests .

The Quantitative Reasoning syllabus includes:

• Arithmetic – Percentages, ratios, averages, profit and loss

• Algebra – Basic algebraic concepts, linear equations

• Geometry – Basic geometry and measurements

General Science (30 MCQs)

General Science is the most important section for NAT IGS candidates. Questions are based on intermediate-level science concepts. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS General Science Practice Tests .

The General Science syllabus includes:

• Introduction to Science – Scientific method, branches of science

• Living Organisms – Characteristics of living things

• Plants – Plant structure and functions

• Animals – Animal classification and characteristics

• Human Body Systems – Digestive, respiratory, circulatory systems

• Health and Diseases – Common diseases, prevention

• Matter and Its Properties – States of matter, physical and chemical properties

• Chemical Reactions – Types of chemical reactions, balancing equations

• Force and Motion – Newton's laws, speed, velocity, acceleration

• Light and Sound – Properties of light and sound waves

• Heat and Temperature – Heat transfer, temperature scales

• Electricity and Magnetism – Basic circuits, electromagnetism

• Earth and Space Science – Solar system, Earth's structure

• Environment and Ecology – Ecosystems, environmental issues

• Natural Resources – Renewable and non-renewable resources

• Science and Technology – Technological advancements

• Genetics and Evolution – Basic genetics, theory of evolution

Biology (52 Quizzes)

The Biology section is included for candidates who wish to strengthen their biology knowledge. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Biology Practice Tests .

The Biology syllabus includes:

• Introduction to Biology – Branches of biology, scientific method

• Biological Molecules – Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids

• Cell Structure and Function – Cell organelles, cell membrane, cell division

• Cell Cycle – Mitosis, meiosis, cell cycle regulation

• Chromosomes and DNA – DNA structure, chromosomes, genes

• Biodiversity – Classification of living organisms

• Kingdom Animalia – Animal classification, characteristics

• Kingdom Plantae – Plant classification, characteristics

• Bioenergetics – Photosynthesis, respiration, energy metabolism

• Nutrition – Types of nutrition, digestive system

• Gas Exchange – Respiratory system, gas exchange mechanisms

• Transport – Circulatory system, transport in plants

• Homeostasis – Osmoregulation, thermoregulation, excretion

• Support and Movement – Skeletal system, muscles, locomotion

• Coordination and Control – Nervous system, hormones, reflexes

• Reproduction – Asexual and sexual reproduction, human reproduction

• Growth and Development – Growth patterns, development stages

• Variation and Genetics – Mendelian genetics, inheritance patterns

• Evolution – Theories of evolution, natural selection

• Biotechnology – Genetic engineering, cloning, DNA technology

• Ecosystem – Ecosystem structure, energy flow, nutrient cycles

• Some Major Ecosystems – Forest, desert, aquatic ecosystems

• Man and His Environment – Human impact on environment, conservation

Chemistry (49 Quizzes)

The Chemistry section covers physical, inorganic, and organic chemistry. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Chemistry Practice Tests .

The Chemistry syllabus includes:

• Basic Concepts – Stoichiometry, mole concept

• Chemical Bonding – Ionic, covalent, metallic bonds

• Gases – Gas laws, kinetic molecular theory

• Liquids – Properties of liquids, vapor pressure

• Solids – Crystalline and amorphous solids

• Chemical Equilibrium – Equilibrium constant, Le Chatelier's principle

• Reaction Kinetics – Rate of reaction, factors affecting rate

• Electrochemistry – Electrochemical cells, electrolysis

• Thermochemistry – Enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy

• Fundamental Principles of Organic Chemistry – Organic chemistry basics, functional groups

• Aliphatic Hydrocarbons – Alkanes, alkenes, alkynes

• Aromatic Hydrocarbons – Benzene and derivatives

• Alkyl Halides – Haloalkanes, reactions

• Alcohols and Phenols – Alcohols, phenols, ethers

• Aldehydes and Ketones – Aldehydes, ketones, reactions

• Carboxylic Acids – Carboxylic acids, derivatives

• S Block Elements – Groups IA-IIA elements

• Macromolecules – Polymers, biomolecules

• Common Chemical Industries in Pakistan – Industrial processes, fertilizers, polymers

• Experimental Techniques – Laboratory techniques, analysis

Physics (45 Quizzes)

The Physics section assesses understanding of core physical concepts. Start your preparation with NTS NAT IGS Physics Practice Tests .

The Physics syllabus includes:

• Measurements – SI Units, errors, physical quantities

• Motion and Force – Newton's laws, kinematics, dynamics

• Work and Energy – Work, power, energy conservation

• Rotational and Circular Motion – Torque, angular momentum

• Vectors and Equilibrium – Vectors, equilibrium conditions

• Waves – Wave properties, sound waves

• Oscillations – Simple harmonic motion

• Geometrical Optics – Reflection, refraction, lenses

• Physical Optics – Interference, diffraction, polarization

• Current Electricity – Ohm's law, circuits, resistivity

• Electrostatics – Coulomb's law, electric fields

• Electromagnetism – Magnetic fields, forces on moving charges

• Electromagnetic Induction – Faraday's law, Lenz's law

• Electronics – Semiconductors, diodes, transistors

• Alternating Current – AC circuits, resonance

• Atomic Spectra – Atomic spectra, Bohr's model

• Dawn of Modern Physics – Relativity, quantum theory

• Nuclear Physics – Radioactivity, nuclear reactions

• Fluid Dynamics – Bernoulli's equation, viscosity

NTS NAT IGS Merit Calculation

The final merit for NTS NAT-based admissions is determined by universities based on their specific admission policies. Generally, the merit formula includes:

• NTS NAT Test Score: Significant weightage

• Intermediate (HSSC) Marks: Weightage as per university policy

• Matric (SSC) Marks: Weightage as per university policy

Merit Benchmarks:

• For Public Sector and Renowned Private universities, merit is more than 72%

• Merit can be as high as 85% as in QAU for Management Sciences programs

• Students with more than 75 marks have good chances in most universities

Different universities have different merit criteria. Some universities may give higher weightage to the NTS NAT score, while others may prioritize academic marks.

NTS NAT IGS Preparation Tips

• Understand the Test Pattern: NAT IGS consists of 90 MCQs from English, Analytical Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and General Science. Focus on all sections equally.

• Know the Syllabus Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the complete chapter-wise syllabus. Use the chapter lists above as a checklist to ensure you cover every topic.

• Practice Chapter by Chapter: Complete one chapter at a time and immediately attempt the relevant chapter-wise quiz. The free quizzes on Pak Admissions are designed specifically for this purpose.

• Focus on High-Yield Topics:

  • General Science: Basic concepts of physics, chemistry, and biology

  • English: Vocabulary, grammar, comprehension

  • Analytical Reasoning: Blood relations, coding-decoding, syllogism, logical deduction

  • Quantitative Reasoning: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry

• Strengthen General Science Knowledge: The subject section carries 33.4% weightage. Focus on understanding basic scientific concepts covered at the intermediate level.

• Take Full-Length Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests under timed conditions (2 hours) to improve your time management skills and build stamina.

• Analyze Your Mistakes: Review every mistake. Understanding why you got a question wrong is how you truly learn and avoid repeating the same errors.

• Appear Multiple Times: As NTS is conducted frequently, it is advisable to appear in NTS at least 3 times to improve your marks. Even if you are a student with 90% marks, it is advised to appear at least twice. It would be the best strategy to appear in NTS in December/January for the first time when you are in FSc Part-II.

• Use Official NTS Resources: Visit the official NTS website www.nts.org.pk for the latest updates, test schedules, and sample papers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the difference between NAT-I and NAT-II?

  • NAT-I is for candidates with 12 years of education (Intermediate), while NAT-II is for candidates with 14 years of education (Bachelor's).

• Which test should I take for General Science?

  • You should take NAT IGS (General Science) if you have completed your intermediate in the General Science group.

• How many MCQs are in the NAT IGS test?

  • NAT IGS consists of 90 MCQs to be completed in 120 minutes.

• Is there negative marking in NAT?

  • No, there is no negative marking in NTS NAT tests.

• How long is the NAT score valid?

  • The NTS NAT score is valid for one year from the date of result declaration.

• Can I take the NAT test multiple times?

  • Yes, you can appear for the NAT test multiple times and use your best score for admissions.

• How can I practice for NAT IGS?

  • You can practice for free on Pak Admissions . The platform offers over 2,119 MCQs across 212 quizzes covering all subjects.

• Which universities accept NAT IGS?

  • NAT IGS is accepted by numerous HEC-recognized universities across Pakistan, including COMSATS University, Quaid-i-Azam University, FAST, Institute of Space Technology, and many others.

Final Words

NTS NAT IGS is your gateway to a wide range of undergraduate programs in Computer Sciences, Management, Social Sciences, and other fields at top universities across Pakistan. With the right preparation strategy and consistent practice, you can achieve a high score and secure admission to your desired program. Start your preparation today by exploring the chapter-wise practice quizzes available on Pak Admissions .

Good luck with your NTS NAT IGS preparation!