Structure of the NMT Physics Test
The NMT Physics test contains 20 tasks:
- 12 tasks with selection of one correct answer from four options
- 2 tasks on establishing correspondences (4 from 5)
- 6 tasks with short numerical answer (2 points each)
Maximum number of points: 32
Physics is an elective subject and is included in the second block along with Ukrainian History. 120 minutes are allocated for the entire block.
Approximately for physics: 60 minutes (approximately 3 minutes per task)
Physics Sections on the NMT
The NMT Physics program includes 5 main thematic blocks:
- ⚙️ Mechanics — kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws
- 🌡️ Molecular physics and thermodynamics — thermal processes, gas laws
- ⚡ Electrodynamics — electric field, current, magnetic field
- 🌈 Oscillations and waves. Optics — wave processes, lenses, light
- ⚛️ Elements of relativity theory. Quantum physics — atomic and nuclear physics
Features of the NMT in Physics
✅ What is Allowed
- Calculator — non-programmable calculator may be used
- Reference materials — tables of physical constants and basic formulas are provided
📐 What is Tested
- Knowledge of physical laws and formulas
- Understanding of physical phenomena
- Ability to apply knowledge to solve problems
- Working with graphs and diagrams
How to Prepare for the NMT in Physics
✅ Effective Strategies
- Solve problems daily — at least 5-10 problems of varying difficulty
- Study formulas — understand their physical meaning and application, not just memorize
- Draw diagrams — always make drawings, diagrams, and graphs for each problem
- Know formulas by heart — although a reference book is provided, it's better to know basic formulas
- Check dimensions — always verify units of measurement in your answer
📚 Most Important Topics
Mechanics:
- Kinematics of motion (velocity, acceleration)
- Dynamics (forces, Newton's laws)
- Conservation laws of energy and momentum
- Mechanical work and power
Electrodynamics:
- Electric field and potential
- Direct current, Ohm's law
- Magnetic field
- Electromagnetic induction
Optics and quantum physics:
- Lenses and image construction
- Interference and diffraction
- Photoelectric effect
- Atomic spectra
How to Solve Problems Effectively
Solution algorithm:
- Brief record of data — write down all data from the problem
- Drawing or diagram — always illustrate the situation
- Write formulas — that you will use
- Solve in general form — obtain formula for the unknown quantity
- Substitute numbers — calculate the result
- Check dimensions — make sure units of measurement are correct
💡 Tip: If you don't know the exact solution, eliminate obviously incorrect options.
Common Student Mistakes
❌ Arithmetic errors in calculations — calculate carefully
❌ Incorrect unit conversion (cm→m, km/h→m/s, g→kg)
❌ Wrong choice of formula to solve the problem
❌ Not understanding the physical meaning of the problem
❌ Sign errors when working with vector quantities
❌ Confusion of vector and scalar quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a calculator?
Yes, on the NMT in Physics you may use a non-programmable calculator.
Are formulas provided?
Yes, a reference book with basic physical formulas and constants is provided. But it's better to know basic formulas by heart.
How many points are needed for technical majors?
Typically from 160 points are needed (on a 200-point scale). For prestigious technical universities — 180-195 points.
Which topics are most important?
Mechanics (kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws), electrodynamics (electric field, current, magnetic field), optics and quantum physics.
