The DTM test is the single entrance block test for universities (90 questions, 189 points at most). The Milliy sertifikat (national certificate) is a separate exam that certifies your level in one subject (a 75-point scale, levels A+ to C). Under the Regulation approved by Cabinet of Ministers resolution No. 646, a holder of an A+ or A certificate gets the maximum points for that subject in the entrance test, and levels B+, B, C+ and C get points in proportion to the certificate score. Below are the differences between the two exams and how to use a certificate.
The main difference: one entrance test vs a subject certificate
Both exams are run by the Agency for Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (uzbmb.uz), but they do different jobs. The DTM test gives one total score for one admission round, and you compete for programmes with it. The Milliy sertifikat is taken per subject, is issued for 3 years under the Regulation, and during that time can count instead of your entrance-test score in that subject.
The formats side by side
| DTM (block) test | Milliy sertifikat | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Competition for bachelor's places | Your level in one subject |
| Subjects | 3 compulsory + 2 major subjects in one test | Each subject is a separate exam |
| Questions | 90 closed questions | 45 tasks: closed questions and open-answer tasks (plus an essay in native language) |
| Time | 3 hours | By subject: maths, physics, chemistry, biology 150 minutes, history 90 minutes |
| Score | A total out of 189 | A 75-point scale (Rasch model), level A+ to C |
| Result | For the current intake | A certificate valid for 3 years |
Certificate levels and what they give in the entrance test
Source: annex 1 to resolution No. 646 - clause 2 of the Regulation (as amended by resolution No. 17 of 10 January 2024, lex.uz). Proportional points are worked out "as a percentage of the certificate's total score"; check the exact method each year in the admission rules on uzbmb.uz.
| Level | Score (out of 75) | In the entrance test for that subject |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | above 70 | Maximum points |
| A | 65 - 69.9 | Maximum points |
| B+ | 60 - 64.9 | Proportional points |
| B | 55 - 59.9 | Proportional points |
| C+ | 50 - 54.9 | Proportional points |
| C | 46 - 49.9 | Proportional points |
Compulsory subjects and foreign languages
- The Regulation says separately that an applicant with a national certificate gets the set maximum score in the corresponding compulsory subjects.
- Clause 1 of the resolution sets this rule for general subjects "except the foreign language": language certificates follow their own rules.
- Before you apply, check on uzbmb.uz exactly how a certificate affects your block (compulsory, 1st or 2nd subject).
Which helps you more: a practical strategy
- If you are confident of an A or A+ in a major subject, take the Milliy sertifikat before the entrance test - it locks in the maximum for that subject in advance.
- The 1st major subject is worth 93 points and the 2nd 63: how much a certificate helps depends on where that subject sits.
- At B+ and below the certificate gives proportional points. If you could score more in that subject on the DTM test, check the admission rules for which option counts.
- A certificate lasts 3 years: make sure one earned in grade 10 or 11 is still valid in your admission year.
- Even with a certificate, keep preparing the other subjects - the remaining blocks decide your total.
How preparation differs
In the DTM test every question is closed: speed, time management and staying focused over 90 questions matter most. The Milliy sertifikat has open-answer tasks - you write the answer instead of choosing it - and an essay in native language. So even in the same subject, practise both formats separately: written solutions and open answers for the certificate, speed and closed-test strategy for the DTM.
Where to check
- uzbmb.uz - admission rules, scoring criteria, "Fanlar majmuasi" and certificate announcements.
- my.uzbmb.uz - your personal account, applications and results.
- lex.uz - the current text of resolution No. 646 with all amendments.
Frequently asked questions
- With an A+ certificate, do I still sit that subject in the DTM? Under the Regulation, A+ and A give the maximum points for that subject; check the admission rules for how sitting the test works.
- How many points does a B certificate give? Points in proportion to the certificate score. The exact calculation is on uzbmb.uz.
- How long is a Milliy sertifikat valid? 3 years, per the Regulation.
- Do IELTS and other language certificates count the same way? No, foreign languages are excluded from this rule and have their own.
- Does Trylab have both formats? Yes: closed DTM tests on the 189-point scale and 45-task Milliy sertifikat papers with open answers.
