What is the ADC Exam for Dentists?
The ADC exam stands for the Australian Dental Council exam. This registration exam, conducted by the Australian Dental Council, determines if the international dentists seeking registration in Australia are capable of delivering safe and effective dental care in Australia. The ADC exam is designed in such a way that it thoroughly evaluates the skills and knowledge of the exam takers.
What are the Steps to the ADC Exam?
The ADC exam has three important steps.
- Initial assessment
- ADC written examination
- ADC practical examination
Initial Assessment
The purpose of the initial assessment is to check the eligibility of the candidates. During this process, the candidate needs to submit the following documents.
- A valid passport
- A recently taken passport-sized photograph that meets the Australian passport photo guidelines
- Evidence of change of name (if required)
- Dental qualification, official certificate or testamur
- Academic transcript
- Internship certificate (if the internship is completed as part of the candidate’s qualification)
- Evidence of registration or licence to practise dentistry
- Two written professional references
- Evidence of practice or work history as a registered or licensed dentist
Following this, the candidate is also required to send a certificate or letter of good standing to the Australian Dental Council.
ADC Written Examination
The ADC written examination is a two-day examination that primarily tests the candidate’s:
- Knowledge of science and practice of dentistry
- Clinical judgement and reasoning skills relevant to dental practice in Australia
ADC Practical Examination
The ADC practical examination is a simulation-based tool to test the candidate’s competencies in the following areas.
- Clinical information gathering
- Diagnosis and management planning
- Clinical treatment and evaluation
Who is Eligible for the ADC Exam?
A candidate applying for the initial skill assessment should have the following.
- Minimum 4-year full-time degree/diploma
- Full and unrestricted registration/licence
What is the ADC Exam Format?
The ADC written examination consists of four 2-hour sections. Each section will contain 70 scenario-based multiple-choice questions.
The ADC practical examination has two main components:
- A technical skills day
- A clinical skills day
This will be a station-based objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).
When is the ADC Exam Conducted?
The ADC written examination is typically held twice a year, in March and in September. The ADC practical examination will be conducted in three periods.
ADC Written Examination | ADC Practical Examination |
| March 13 2024 | Period 1: January - May 2024 |
| March 14 2024 | Period 2: May - August 2024 |
| September 11 2024 | Period 3: September - December 2024 |
| September 12 2024 |
Where is the ADC Exam Conducted?
The ADC written examination will be held at Pearson VUE centres across the world. The centres may be to change. In India, the following cities have ADC exam centres.
- Hyderabad
- Pune
- Surat
- Ahmedabad
- Mumbai
- Noida
- Chennai
- Bangalore
- Gurugram
- Jalandhar
- Amritsar
The ADC exam centre for the practical examination is located in Melbourne, Australia.
Conclusion
Passing the ADC exam is a significant achievement that opens doors to a rewarding dental career in Australia. While the journey is challenging, thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the process can greatly enhance your chances of success. By following the guidelines provided and dedicating yourself to diligent study and practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a registered dentist in Australia.
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