Are you dreaming of practising dentistry in Australia? Then, you have to pass the ADC exam.
If you’re an overseas-qualified dentist, the first step is knowing the Australian Dental Council (ADC) exam dates for 2026. Missing a deadline could delay your registration by months, so planning ahead is important.
In this blog, you’ll find a complete breakdown of all 2026 Written and Practical Exam dates, application windows, and key timelines, everything you need to stay on track and secure your spot.
ADC Written Examination Dates 2026
The Written Exam is a two-day test assessing your ability to apply dental knowledge to clinical practice. It is conducted twice a year, and passing it is mandatory before sitting the Practical Exam.
Written Exam Dates – 2026
| Period | Initial Assessment Deadline | Application Period | Examination Dates |
| Period 1 | 12 October 2025 | 9 – 16 December 2025 | Wednesday 11 & Thursday 12 March 2026 |
| Period 2 | 12 April 2026 | 9 – 16 June 2026 | Wednesday 16 & Thursday 17 September 2026 |
Quick Notes:
- Results are released approximately 5 months after the application
- Written Exam results are valid for 3 years
- Ensure your initial assessment is valid before applying
ADC Practical Examination Dates 2026
The Practical Exam is a two-day simulation-based assessment of clinical skills. Candidates must have a valid Written Exam pass before applying.
Practical Exam Dates – 2026
| Period | Application Period | Date Selection | Examination Window |
| Period 1 | 15 – 24 October 2025 | 28 – 30 October 2025 | January – May 2026 |
| Period 2 | 11 – 22 February 2026 | 25 – 27 February 2026 | May – August 2026 |
| Period 3 | 17 – 26 June 2026 | 1 – 3 July 2026 | August – December 2026 |
Late 2025 Period 3:
- Application: 18 – 27 June 2025
- Date Selection: 2 – 4 July 2025
- Exam Window: August – December 2025
Quick Notes:
- Exact exam dates are allocated after the date selection period
- Once passed, Practical Exam results do not expire
If your dream is to become a dentist in Australia, start preparing for the ADC exam today. You can do it by enrolling in the ADC Preparation Course. In this course, you will get live and recorded lectures, study materials, practice questions, AI-based mock tests, personalised guidance and so much more. What are you waiting for? Start preparing today!
Overview of the ADC Assessment Process
The ADC assessment is designed for dentists whose qualifications do not meet the requirements for registration with the Dental Board of Australia. It evaluates:
- Knowledge
- Clinical judgement
- Practical skills
- Professional competence
The process involves three sequential stages:
| Stage | Purpose | Eligibility | Validity | Cost |
| Initial Assessment | Determines eligibility to complete ADC assessments | Minimum 4-year full-time dental degree/diploma | 7 years | 647 AUD (application), 35 AUD (renewal) |
| Written Examination | Two-day exam testing applied clinical knowledge | Successful, valid Initial Assessment | 3 years | 2,122 AUD |
| Practical Examination | Two-day simulation-based exam assessing clinical skills | Successful, valid Written Examination | Does not expire | 4,775 AUD |
Note: Each stage must be cleared before progressing to the next.
How to Start Preparing for the ADC Exam
Early preparation is critical for success in the ADC exam. Here’s a simple roadmap:
- Understand the exam format – Written: 2 days of scenario-based questions, Practical: 2 days of simulation tests
- Follow ADC competency standards – focus on clinical application
- Make a study plan – start 6–9 months before the written exam
- Practice case-based questions to improve reasoning and speed
- Revise core dental subjects – restorative, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery
- Familiarise with Australian clinical guidelines – infection control, safety protocols
- Hands-on practice – shift focus to practical skills after passing the written exam
- Use mock exams to identify weak areas and boost confidence
Tip: Consistency beats cramming. Start early and stay focused.
Final Takeaway
The ADC exam process can feel challenging, but with careful planning, early preparation, and consistent effort, success is entirely achievable.
Motivational note: Every step you take, from the initial assessment to the practical exam, brings you closer to your goal of practising dentistry in Australia. Stay focused, stay consistent, and trust the process. Your dream of becoming a registered dentist in Australia is within reach!
If you need any more information or guidance, you can reach out to the experts at Academically. They will help you with everything you need to know and become a dentist in Australia.