The ADC Journey: How Indian-Trained Dentists Can Practice in Australia

General
1

For Indian-trained dentists aiming to practice in Australia, the Australian Dental Council (ADC) assessment is the mandatory pathway. While the process is structured, it requires careful planning, time, and financial preparation.

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1. Initial Skills Assessment (Document Verification)

The first step is submitting documents to the ADC for eligibility assessment. This includes your dental degree, internship completion, registration, transcripts, and identity proof. All documents must be notarized and uploaded online.

Timeline: Applications are open year-round. Most candidates apply between January and April.
Processing time: ~8–12 weeks
Cost: ~AUD 610

2. ADC Written Examination

Once deemed eligible, you can apply for the Written Examination. It tests theoretical knowledge across dental sciences, clinical dentistry, and public health. The exam is conducted multiple times a year and can be taken at international test centers, including India.

Exam windows: Usually March, July, and November
Preparation time: 6–9 months
Cost: ~AUD 2,000

3. ADC Practical Examination

After clearing the written exam, candidates become eligible for the Practical Examination, conducted only in Australia. It assesses clinical skills through simulated patient procedures.

Exam slots: Limited; often booked 6–12 months in advance
Preparation time: 6–12 months (often with coaching)
Cost: ~AUD 4,500–5,000
Additional costs: Travel, accommodation, and practice materials

4. Registration and Migration Pathways

After passing both exams, you can apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia (AHPRA). This is followed by job search, visa application (often skilled migration or employer-sponsored), and relocation.

Financial Planning & Funding Options

The total cost can range from AUD 8,000 to 12,000+. Common financing options include:

  • Personal education loans from Indian banks

  • NBFC education loans for overseas licensing exams

  • Family funding or phased savings during preparation

  • Some candidates work in India or the Middle East while preparing

Final Thought

The ADC pathway is demanding but achievable with long-term planning. Starting early, budgeting wisely, and preparing strategically can make the transition from India to Australian dental practice smoother and realistic.

MBH/AB

10 Likes
2

Thankyou for the information!

3

Informative post!

4

Thanks for sharing this informative content.

Found it helpful and motivating.

5

Appreciate the effort you put into explaining this in detail.

6

Well articulated! Became aware about the Australian license exam through this post.

7

Great post :heart:, very concise and informative.

8

Very informative post

9

This information will be useful to many who are aspiring to migrate to Australia.

10

Preciously explained. Very informative

11

This is a very thorough road map. Although the ADC procedure takes a significant amount of time (more than two years) and money (more than AUD $10,000), it is possible with careful preparation. For Indian dentists who want to work in Australia, smart financing through loans or phased savings is essential.

12

Really need to share this kinds of information to all the people. Very good information and quite insightful.