Format at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Questions | 280 single-best-answer MCQs (240 scored, 40 unscored) |
| Structure | 56 clinical scenarios, each with 5 questions |
| Time | Four sections of 70 questions, 2 hours each: two sections a day over two consecutive days |
| Delivery | Computer-based at Pearson VUE test centres; same venue both days |
| Pass standard | Pass each of four clusters at the standard of a minimally competent recent Australian graduate; no fixed pass mark |
| Sittings | Twice a year, usually March and September |
| Fee | A$2,122 (2026) |
The four clusters you must pass
The ADC groups questions by the domains of its Professional Competencies of the Newly Qualified Dental Practitioner. Each cluster gets a grade: A (clear pass), B (close pass), C (close fail) or D (clear fail). You need an A or B in every cluster.
- Cluster 1, Professionalism and health promotion: social responsibility and professionalism (12%) plus health promotion (8%).
- Cluster 2, Clinical information gathering (30%): history, examination, special tests and radiographs.
- Cluster 3, Diagnosis and management planning (30%).
- Cluster 4, Clinical treatment and evaluation (20%).
The 13 disciplines
Three subdisciplines are tested inside the others: pharmacology (10%), radiology (10%) and implantology (4%).
| Discipline | Target % |
|---|---|
| Restorative dentistry (incl. carious and non-carious tooth surface loss) | 14% |
| Paediatric dentistry and orthodontics | 10% |
| Preventive dentistry and behaviour modification | 10% |
| Periodontics | 9% |
| Dental emergencies | 8% |
| General medicine (incl. medical emergencies and special needs dentistry) | 8% |
| Endodontics | 7% |
| Oral medicine and pathology | 7% |
| Oral surgery | 7% |
| Fixed prosthodontics | 5% |
| Infection prevention and control | 5% |
| Pain and anxiety management | 5% |
| Removable prosthodontics | 5% |
See where you stand in 10 minutes
Take the free ADC Written Exam practice test. 15 questions, every answer explained.
What the questions look like
Each scenario describes a patient in an Australian practice: history, medications, findings and sometimes images. Five questions follow, usually moving from information gathering to diagnosis, management and treatment. Because questions share a scenario, misreading one detail (an allergy, a medication, the patient's age) can cost you several marks. Read the vignette once, slowly, and note the facts that change management.
Answer the Australian way
- Drugs and antibiotics: Therapeutic Guidelines: Oral and Dental. Antibiotics aren't for pulpitis or dry socket.
- Infection control: the ADA Guidelines for Infection Control and the Dental Board of Australia's infection control guidelines.
- Fluoride: the 2019 Australian fluoride guidelines (age bands for toothpaste strength).
- Professional conduct: the Dental Board of Australia's Code of conduct and mandatory notification rules under the National Law.
- Dental trauma: the 2020 IADT guidelines.
A 12-week plan
- Weeks 1-2: take the free test, read the ADC handbook and blueprint, then start on the biggest disciplines (restorative, paediatrics and orthodontics, prevention). Flashcards daily.
- Weeks 3-6: two disciplines a week, notes first, then scenario questions. Keep an Australian guidelines list as you go.
- Weeks 7-8: pharmacology, radiology, medical emergencies and infection control across all disciplines. First full timed section of 70 questions.
- Weeks 9-10: drill your weakest cluster from the Reports page. Two sections back-to-back to build stamina.
- Weeks 11-12: a full two-day simulation, clear your mistakes bank, then light review only.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the ADC written exam?
280 multiple-choice questions over two days, in four sections of 70. 240 are scored and 40 are unscored trial items, and you can't tell which.
What is the pass mark?
There isn't a fixed one. The ADC sets a passing standard for each cluster using modified Angoff standard setting and Rasch equating, and doesn't publish the cluster pass scores. You must pass all four clusters.
How many times can I sit it?
The ADC sets no limit on attempts. A pass is valid for five years, and you need a valid initial assessment at application and on the exam dates.
When do results come out?
Usually about six weeks after the exam, through ADC Connect.
Can I bring a calculator or paper?
No. Calculators and electronics aren't allowed, and scrap paper isn't provided or permitted.
Official sources
- Australian Dental Council: Dentists written examination
- ADC Written Examination Handbook for General Dentistry
- Pearson VUE: Australian Dental Council
Practice tests for these certifications
This guide is general information, checked November 2026, not legal advice. the Australian Dental Council rules change; confirm with the Australian Dental Council before you apply.
