Planning to practise dentistry in Australia in 2026? For overseas-qualified dentists, the Australian Dental Council (ADC) exam is the gateway and missing a deadline can set you back an entire year.
ADC exams run on fixed, limited intakes, and many candidates lose time not due to preparation, but due to poor awareness of exam dates and application windows. This guide breaks down the ADC Written and Practical Exam dates for 2026 in a simple, easy-to-scan format so you can plan with confidence.
About ADC Examination
Before looking at dates, it’s important to understand how the ADC process works:
- The Australian Dental Council (ADC) exam is completed in three sequential stages. This exam checks if your qualifications and knowledge are up to the Australian standards.
- You cannot skip or rearrange the order.
- Each stage has separate eligibility and validity rules.
The stages are:
- Initial Assessment
- Written Examination
- Practical Examination
ADC Written Exam Dates – 2026
The ADC Written Examination is a two-day exam that assesses how well candidates apply dental knowledge to clinical situations.
Key points to remember:
- Conducted only twice a year
- Requires a successful and valid Initial Assessment
- The timeframe is usually around five months after the application period
- Written exam results remain valid for three years
Period 1 – 2026
- Initial assessment deadline: 12 October 2025
- Application window: 9 – 16 December 2025
- Exam dates: Wednesday 11 & Thursday 12 March 2026
Period 2 – 2026
- Initial assessment deadline: 12 April 2026
- Application window: 9 – 16 June 2026
- Exam dates: Wednesday 16 & Thursday 17 September 2026
ADC Practical Exam Dates – 2026
The ADC Practical Examination is a two-day, simulation-based exam that evaluates hands-on clinical skills in a controlled environment.
Important highlights:
- You must pass the Written Exam before applying
- Exam dates are allocated within a date range, not fixed days
- Once passed, the practical exam does not expire
Period 1 – 2026
- Application period: 15 – 24 October 2025
- Date selection window: 28 – 30 October 2025
- Exam window: January – May 2026
Period 2 – 2026
- Application period: 11 – 22 February 2026
- Date selection window: 25 – 27 February 2026
- Exam window: May – August 2026
Period 3 – 2026
- Application period: 17 – 26 June 2026
- Date selection window: 2 – 4 July 2026
- Exam window: August – December 2026
Why Early Planning for ADC 2026 Is Essential
Many candidates underestimate how rigid the ADC timeline is. Early planning helps you:
- Avoid missing non-extendable application deadlines
- Align exam attempts with work, visa, and relocation plans
- Allow enough time between Written and Practical Exam preparation
- Reduce the risk of 12-month delays due to missed intakes
Most successful candidates plan their ADC journey 12–24 months in advance.
How You Can Start Preparing for the ADC Exam
Preparing early is key to passing both the written and practical ADC exams. Here’s a simple roadmap:
- Understand the exam format – know what topics and skills are tested.
- Follow ADC competency standards – focus on clinical application, not just theory.
- Make a study plan – start at least 4-6 months before your written exam.
- Practice case-based questions – improve reasoning and time management.
- Revise core dental subjects – restorative, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral surgery.
- Familiarise with Australian guidelines – infection control, safety, and clinical protocols.
- Hands-on practice – after passing the written exam, focus on practical skills and simulations.
- Use mock exams – identify weak areas and boost confidence.
Academically’s ADC Preparation course highlights all these in their course, it would be wise decision to join the program if you are thinking of passing the exam in the first attempt. Jobslly is the best platform for job search for healthcare professionals, connecting you with verified opportunities and career growth prospects.
Final Takeaway
Understanding the ADC exam dates for dentists in Australia in 2026 is just as important as exam preparation itself. With limited exam intakes and strict timelines, staying informed and planning ahead can save months, sometimes years, on your path to Australian dental registration.
Believe in yourself, start early, and take one step at a time. Your dream of becoming a registered dentist in Australia is within reach!
