Are you a dentist looking for a career opportunity abroad? Then, 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 | In Indian Rupees |
| Initial assessment | 647 AUD | 36,017 INR |
| Initial assessment renewal | 265 AUD | 14,752 INR |
| Skills assessment | 646 AUD | 36,916 INR |
| Skills assessment (work history reassessment) | 265 AUD | 14,752 INR |
| Appeal against the outcome of the initial assessment | 647 AUD | 36,017 INR |
The initial assessment determines your eligibility to take the ADC exam.
If you need to renew your initial assessment or reassess your work history, you will need to pay additional fees. 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
To practice as a dentist in Australia, you should be fluent in English. Not just the textbook fluency, it should be according to AHPRA standards. Most international medical graduates take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or OET, to meet the language requirements.
The cost required to take the IELTS Exam is around 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 | In Indian Ruppes |
| Written examination application | 2,122 AUD | 118127 INR |
| Verification of a written examination result | 128 AUD | 7125 INR |
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 ADC written exam, you will have to take the ADC Practical Exam. This is an OSCE-style clinical exam that assesses your clinical skills and knowledge.
Here's how much ADC Practical exam will cost you:
| Item | Fee | In Indian Rupees |
| Practical examination application | 4,775 AUD | 265815 INR |
| Verification of a practical examination result | 128 AUD | 7125 INR |
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.
To pass the exam on the first attempt, it is better to enrol in Academically’s ADC Preparation Course. In this course, you will get all the resources and guidance to take the ADC exam.
For Dental Hygienists, Dental Therapists, Oral Health Therapist, and Dental Prosthetist
Apart from working as a dentist, foreign-trained professionals have other options in Australia’s dental field. You can become a dental hygienist, dental therapist, oral health therapist, or even a dental prosthetist.
Let’s see the cost involved in pursuing these fields:
Initial Assessment
| Item | Fee | In Indian Rupees |
| Initial assessment | 647 AUD | 36,017 INR |
| Initial assessment renewal | 265 AUD | 14,752 INR |
| Appeal against the outcome of the initial assessment | 647 AUD | 36,017 INR |
ADC Written Exam
| Item | Fee | In Indian Rupees |
| Written examination application | 1,432 AUD | 79716 |
| Verification of a written examination result | 128 AUD | 7125 INR |
ADC Practical Exam
| Item | Fee | In Indian Rupees |
| Practical examination application | 3,342 AUD | 186042 INR |
| Verification of a practical examination result | 128 AUD | 7125 INR |
Additional Costs
Travel and accommodation
The ADC Practical exam happens in Melbourne. So, you will have to travel to Australia and arrange accommodations till you stay and take the exam.
Study Materials Costs
If you are taking the ADC exam, it is essential that you do it with full preparation. This preparation will cost you in terms of study materials or coaching classes.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a registered dentist in Australia lead to great perks like an amazing salary and better work life balance. But what you should remember is the cost involved in the process.
Understanding the financial side early on helps you plan better. You might wonder, “Is it really worth spending this much on the exam?” The truth is, once you land a dentist job in Australia, you’ll likely earn it all back within just a few months.
If you have any doubts or questions about the ADC exam, reach out to us.