Introduction
Are you a dentist looking for career opportunities abroad? Australia is a perfect place to make your dreams come true. It is a land of opportunities with a strong demand for dentists.
However, embarking on the journey to become a licensed dentist in Australia involves more than just academic and professional requirements. It also comes with a price tag. The ADC exam comprises various components, each with its associated fees.
In this blog, we will delve into the total cost involved in pursuing the ADC exam in Australia.
For Dentists
Initial Assessment
The initial assessment sets the foundation for your eligibility to pursue a career in Australia.
This is the step where your educational and professional qualifications are evaluated by the Australian Dental Council (ADC). Here's a breakdown of the fees:
| Item | Fee |
| Initial assessment | 628 AUD |
| Initial assessment renewal | 258 AUD |
| Skills assessment | 628 AUD |
| Skills assessment (work history reassessment) | 258 AUD |
| Appeal against the outcome of the initial assessment | 628 AUD |
The initial assessment is crucial, as it determines your eligibility to proceed further in the examination process.
If you need to renew your initial assessment or reassess your work history, additional fees apply. In case of disagreements with the initial assessment outcome, there is also an option to appeal, though it comes with its own fee.
English Proficiency Test
Fluency in English is crucial for effective dental practice. Most international dentists must take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or OET, to meet the language requirements.
The coat required to take the IELTS Exam is AUD$410.00.
ADC Written Exam
Once you have successfully completed the initial assessment, the next step is the written examination.
It is conducted to demonstrate your competence. This is the first step towards becoming a licensed dentist in Australia.
| Item | Fee |
| Written examination application | 2,060 AUD |
| Verification of a written examination result | 124 AUD |
| Application for review written examination | 979 AUD |
| Independent appeal committee written examination | 5,150 AUD |
The written examination is a significant component of the ADC exam. It is essential to budget for the application fee, and if necessary, the review and appeal fees.
The cost can add up, especially if you decide to request a review or an appeal of your results.
ADC Practical Exam
After clearing the preliminary written exam, you will be required to complete the ADC Practical Exam, which assesses your clinical skills.
Here's a breakdown of the fees associated with this stage:
| Item | Fee |
| Practical examination application | 4,635 AUD |
| Verification of a practical examination result | 124 AUD |
| Application for review practical examination | 979 AUD |
| Independent appeal committee practical examination | 5,150 AUD |
The practical examination is a significant investment, both in terms of time and money. Ensure you allocate funds for the application fee and any potential review or appeal costs.
For Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, Oral Health Therapist, and Dental Prosthetist
Apart from being a dentist in Australia, foreign dentists also have the option of becoming Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, Oral Health therapists, and Dental Prosthetists in Australia.
Let's see the cost involved in pursuing these fields:
Initial Assessment
| Item | Fee |
| Initial assessment | 628 AUD |
| Initial assessment renewal | 258 AUD |
| Appeal against the outcome of the initial assessment | 628 AUD |
ADC Written Exam
| Item | Fee |
| Written examination application | 1,391 AUD |
| Verification of a written examination result | 124 AUD |
| Application for review written examination | 979 AUD |
| Independent appeal committee written examination | 5,150 AUD |
ADC Practical Exam
| Item | Fee |
| Practical examination application | 3,245 AUD |
| Verification of a practical examination result | 124 AUD |
| Application for review - practical examination | 979 AUD |
| Independent appeal committee - practical examination | 5,150 AUD |
Additional Costs
Travel and accommodation
For the ADC Practical exam, the exam centre is in Melbourne. So, if you are an international dentist, you have to plan for your travel and accommodation in Australia.
Study Materials Costs
For the preparation of the ADC Exam, you will require study materials such as textbooks, practice exams, and online courses.
These materials might cost a lot depending on the study preferences and the availability of resources.
Conclusion
Becoming a licensed dentist in Australia through the ADC exam is a significant undertaking, and the associated costs should not be underestimated.
The total cost can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the number of attempts required to pass each exam component and the need for reviews or appeals.
Before embarking on this journey, it's crucial to carefully plan your finances and ensure you have the necessary funds to cover the ADC exam fees as well as other associated expenses.
Additionally, consider seeking financial advice and exploring scholarship opportunities or funding options that may be available to you.
While the ADC exam fees may seem steep, they are an investment in your future career as a dentist in Australia, and success in these exams can open up rewarding professional opportunities.
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