Question 1

What is the NDEB Equivalency Process for internationally trained dentists?

Accepted Answer

The NDEB (National Dental Examining Board of Canada) Equivalency Process is the assessment pathway for internationally trained dentists who want to practise dentistry in Canada. It consists of three sequential assessments: the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK), the Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ), and the Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS). Passing all three leads to NDEB certification and eligibility for provincial dental licensure.

Question 2

How can an overseas dentist get a dental licence in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Overseas dentists obtain Canadian dental licensure by completing the NDEB Equivalency Process (AFK, ACJ, and ACS assessments), receiving NDEB certification, and then applying for licensure with the dental regulatory authority in their intended province or territory. Each province has its own additional licensing requirements.

Question 3

What is the AFK, ACJ, and ACS in the NDEB process?

Accepted Answer

The AFK (Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge) is a written exam testing dental science knowledge. The ACJ (Assessment of Clinical Judgement) is a written exam testing clinical decision-making. The ACS (Assessment of Clinical Skills) is a comprehensive clinical examination testing hands-on dental skills. Each must be passed in sequence; the ACS is the most demanding and costly stage at approximately CAD 9,000.

Question 4

What is the NDEB Certification Process versus the Equivalency Process?

Accepted Answer

The NDEB offers two pathways. The Equivalency Process is for dentists whose qualifications are not equivalent to Canadian standards — it requires all three assessments (AFK, ACJ, ACS). The Certification Process is for dentists who have completed a CDAC-accredited dental programme and need only the ACS and final certification. Most internationally trained dentists follow the Equivalency Process.

Question 5

What English or French language requirement applies for Canadian dental licensure?

Accepted Answer

English proficiency is required by most provincial dental regulatory authorities. IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 overall, no band below 7.0) or OET (minimum Grade B in all components) are widely accepted. In Quebec, French language proficiency (TEF Canada or equivalent) is required. The specific requirement varies by province — check with the relevant dental regulatory authority.

Question 6

What documents are required for the NDEB credential application?

Accepted Answer

Required documents include a valid passport, dental degree certificate, academic transcripts, internship completion certificate, professional registration/licence from your home country, certificate of good standing from the home country dental authority, credential evaluation report (e.g. WES), English/French language test results, police clearance certificate, and CV/resume.

Question 7

Can an Indian dentist practise dentistry in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Indian dentists can obtain a dental licence in Canada through the NDEB Equivalency Process. After passing the AFK, ACJ, and ACS assessments and receiving NDEB certification, they apply for provincial dental licensure. MCDI assists Indian dentists with document preparation, credential assessment guidance, and application support for the NDEB process.

Question 8

How long does NDEB dental registration take for international dentists?

Accepted Answer

The NDEB credential verification takes approximately 8–12 weeks. Each assessment stage (AFK, ACJ, ACS) is offered at scheduled intervals. The complete NDEB Equivalency Process typically takes 18–36 months from application to provincial dental licensure, depending on examination availability, preparation, and provincial licensing timelines.

Question 9

How much does the NDEB Equivalency Process cost?

Accepted Answer

The NDEB credential application and verification costs CAD 1,000. The AFK is CAD 1,000, the ACJ is CAD 1,350, and the ACS is CAD 9,000. Provincial dental licensing fees vary (approximately CAD 500–1,500). English language tests cost approximately CAD 300–400. Total NDEB assessment cost is approximately CAD 12,350.

Question 10

What does MCDI's NDEB documentation assistance include?

Accepted Answer

MCDI's NDEB documentation assistance covers eligibility review, preparation and checking of all required NDEB credential application documents, guidance on the credential evaluation and NDEB application process, and step-by-step support through the Canadian dental registration pathway. MCDI assists with documentation only — all assessment and certification decisions rest with the NDEB.

Question 11

Can a BDS graduate from India apply for the NDEB Equivalency Process and practise dentistry in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BDS graduates from India are eligible for the NDEB Equivalency Process. Your Indian BDS degree will be evaluated during the NDEB credential assessment. You will need to pass the AFK, ACJ, and ACS assessments and receive NDEB certification before applying for provincial dental licensure in Canada. Meeting English language requirements (IELTS 7.0 or OET Grade B) is also mandatory. Indian BDS graduates are among the most active applicants for the NDEB Equivalency Process.