NDEBexams Archives - Prep Doctors Education

Prep Doctors X Windmill Microlending: Introduce “Cost+ ZERO Financing”

In a groundbreaking partnership, Prep Doctors and Windmill Microlending are proud to introduce “Cost+ ZERO Financing,” a revolutionary loan product designed to support internationally-trained dentists in covering the costs of obtaining a Canadian license. This innovative loan option will be accessible to candidates enrolled in Prep Doctors, offering them an affordable and reliable repayment plan in the face of rising interest rates.

 

Addressing the Healthcare Professional Shortage in Canada:

 

Canada is facing a projected shortage of approximately 5,000 dentists by 2028, as per the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS). For foreign-trained applicants, the process of obtaining a dental license in Canada can be both financially and temporally burdensome, involving multiple examinations over several years and a limited number of available exam seats. “Cost+ ZERO Financing” aims to alleviate this burden by providing accessible and dependable financial support throughout the accreditation process.

 

Zero Interest-Free Advancement for International Students:

 

The term “zero” signifies an interest-free advancement, offering much-needed relief to international candidates who may face challenges accessing loans with interest rates, not to mention the cost of living in Canada. This product will provide vital support to cover the expenses of NDECC preparation courses and exams, easing the strain on students’ cash flows. Borrowers will gradually repay Windmill the original amount borrowed along with a fee.

 

A Powerful Collaboration to Empower Dentists:

 

Prep Doctors, a trusted leader in dental training and support services since 2011, has been instrumental in helping over 7,000 dentists acquire their licenses. Co-Founder and CEO, Firas Abu Saleh, highlighted the organization’s commitment to providing programs for all under-represented groups. He expressed deep gratitude to Windmill’s leadership team for their vision and dedication to investing in this unique opportunity. Abu Saleh looks forward to the partnership continuing to assist their candidates in achieving success in their careers in Canada.

 

Enabling Dentists to Pursue their Canadian Dreams:

 

Claudia Hepburn, CEO at Windmill Microlending, expressed concern over the barriers faced by numerous internationally-trained dentists in restarting their careers in dentistry due to the high costs of preparatory courses and licensing exams. Through the exciting collaboration with Prep Doctors, Claudia Hepburn hopes that “Cost+ ZERO Financing” will empower more dentists to afford the expenses of Canadian accreditation and enable them to utilize their skills in Canada.

 

Recognized by The Globe and Mail:

 

The launch of “Cost+ ZERO Financing” has garnered widespread recognition, with The Globe and Mail covering the initiative in a recent article. [Read the article here.]

 

About Prep Doctors:

 

Prep Doctors is the leading dental training and support services provider, preparing foreign-trained dentists to obtain licenses to practice dentistry in Canada. Through first-class preparatory courses targeting the required National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) exams, as well as Continuing Education courses for professional development, Prep Doctors equips all dentists with the skills they need to excel and maintain their licenses.

 

About Windmill Microlending:

 

Windmill Microlending is dedicated to reducing poverty, inequity, and labor shortages by providing affordable loans to help skilled immigrants and refugees put their talents to work in Canada. Since its founding in 2005, Windmill Microlending has delivered over 9,000 loans to new Canadians, helping them triple their incomes on average and transform their potential into prosperity.

 

Together, Prep Doctors and Windmill Microlending are making a significant impact in addressing the healthcare talent shortage and creating opportunities for dentists to thrive in their careers in Canada. We are committed to empowering dreams and building a brighter future for skilled professionals in the healthcare industry.

Claudia Hepburn, CEO at Windmill Microlending (left) and Firas Abu Saleh, Co-Founder and CEO at Prep Doctors (right)

 

Our Dental Business Diploma & Preparation Program is About to Launch

Prep Doctors and St. Clair College have teamed once again in their commitment to providing international dentists access to the Canadian dental industry. With the formalization of our new Business Diploma & Preparation Course, our two-year program is set to launch for the Winter Term to our latest cohort in January 2022.

The Business Diploma & Preparation Course provides students with a diverse list of courses to develop comprehensive business acumen, begin their Canadian equivalency, and develop essential understandings in accounting, human resources, marketing and business law to start operating their own dental clinics.

This partnership demonstrates how private and public sectors can collaborate to deliver value to the community. Prep Doctors brings over ten years of industry experience training dentists in Canada. At the same time, St. Clair’s Zekelman Business school brings over 50 years of experience to the table,” says Prep Doctors CEO Firas Abu Saleh.

The synergy created by this partnership is very promising, and the output is an exceptional program that delivers the best of both worlds to dentists looking to hone their business skills and learn how to apply them in their professional practice.”

In anticipation of the launch, the Windsor Star has written further about the program’s scope and the attraction for development it brings. Click here to read more.

For more information about the program, click here. Have a question we didn’t answer? Reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Unique business program will bring more internationally trained dentists to Canada

Unique business program will bring more internationally trained dentists to Canada
Published on: Dec 21, 2021 at 15:28 Edit

This article was originally posted on St. Clair College’s website on December 2, 2021. 

St. Clair College and Prep Doctors have signed an agreement which will help foreign dentists learn the essentials of Canadian dental business practices while taking important steps toward earning equivalency from the National Dental Examination Board.

This unique agreement co-signed by Prep Doctors CEO, Firas Abu Saleh, and St. Clair College, President Patti France, gives internationally trained dentists the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in Canada’s growing dental industry. Over the course of two years in the Dental Business Diploma & Equivalency Program at St. Clair, students will learn about accounting for dentistry, business communications, economics, Canadian culture and more while receiving thorough preparation for the NDEB equivalency process.

Dr. Marwan Al Rayes, co-founder and Chief Learning Officer of Prep Doctors, is a Windsor native who attended J.L. Forster Secondary School and played soccer behind St. Clair College as a teenager. Over twenty years later, Al Rayes says it feels great to be able to sign this agreement and make an impact for the people who strive to be dentists and hope to one day live in North America.

“This is about giving back to the community and making the industry more accessible. We can provide a huge step to someone hopefully,” said Al Rayes. “Everyone’s dream is to come to Canada or North America and live the American Dream. It is a huge opportunity, not only by getting them access into Canada, but being a member of the elite class in Canada.”

Al Rayes says Prep Doctors has an initial target goal of recruiting 50 students annually to St. Clair but hope to have upwards of 100 students and even bigger numbers in the future.

“If we look at the number of dentists graduating from Canadian schools, I don’t believe it is sufficient for the population. So, we do need foreign skill to actually give people the quality of healthcare they deserve here in Canada,” said Al Rayes. “I think the collaboration between St. Clair and Prep Doctors is mixing healthcare with business, which is a unique aspect in dentistry. It’s different from medicine and pharmacy in the sense that dentistry is a healthcare profession that also has a strong business side.”

Firas Abu Saleh, CEO of Prep Doctors, is a Harvard Business School graduate who co-founded the organization with Al Rayes with a shared vision of creating an inclusive learning space for dentists all over the globe. Abu Saleh believes extending this collaboration with St. Clair College will help Prep Doctors expand its reach to potential candidates in the international market and bring more dentists to Canada.

“Based on St. Clair’s experience with agents and international student recruitment, this is a great addition. It is an area of strength that is really helpful for us,” Abu Saleh said. “We are used to working with local dentists who are already in Canada so by working with St. Clair and its name-recognition will help us move forward and expand the market.”

A group from Prep Doctors and senior administrators from St. Clair College
A group from Prep Doctors and senior administrators from St. Clair College signed an agreement to provide business training to internationally-trained dentists.

More information on the Dental Business Diploma & Equivalency Program can be found here: Prep Doctors @ St. Clair College | St. Clair College (stclaircollege.ca)

– Brett Hedges

 


 

For more information about the program, click here. Have a question we didn’t answer? Reach out to us on our Facebook page. We look forward to hearing from you!

What Language Proficiency Requirements Do You Need to Become a Dentist in Canada?

In our ‘How to Become a Dentist in Canada’ blog post, we reviewed the pathways that international dentists can take to become accredited in Canada. Here, we will look at the language proficiency requirements for licensure.

You do not need proof of language proficiency if you have graduated from:

A)    A dentistry educational program accredited by:

•  The Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC)
•  The American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
•  The Australian Dental Council (after March 31, 2010)
•  The Dental Council – New Zealand (after December 14, 2011), or
•  The Irish Dental Council (after December 5, 2012).

 

B)    An accredited two-year qualifying or degree completion program in dentistry. As of November 2021, these programs are offered by the University of Alberta, University of Saskatchewan, University of Manitoba, Western University, University of Toronto, McGill University, and Dalhousie University. The language requirement for admissions into most of these programs is an Academic IELTS band score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each module. French-language programs can be done at Université de Montréal and Université Laval.

However, you need to show proof of language proficiency in the Province of Ontario if you do not fulfil the above conditions. Other provinces and territories do not currently have this requirement, but if you decide to move to (and practice in) Ontario, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) is authorized to ask for proof of language proficiency. This proof can be provided in one of these three ways:

1.   Through demonstrating that you have completed a non-accredited dental program taught fully in English or French by providing:

•  a letter from the Dean of the program confirming that the entire program is taught in English or French,
•  a letter written by yourself explaining how you meet the language proficiency requirement.

 

2.   Take an English/French Language proficiency test. Keep in mind that test results are valid for two years, so you will need to take a new test if your results are from more than two years prior to your application.

You need to have one of the following scores to qualify:

 

IELTS table design blog post with scores
 

3.   Submit acceptable evidence to the Registrar or Registration Committee that you have reasonable proficiency in English or French. In this case, you will be delivering an oral presentation before a panel and answer any questions they may have regarding the matter. Although this option may work well for those who speak English or French as their first language, it can delay the registration by months as the Registration Committee typically meets only three to four times per year.

It’s important to remember that each NDEB exam, as well as the preparation courses available at Prep Doctors, are administered and delivered in English. Having a reasonable command of English and improving your language skills will help you measure your English proficiency and allow you to take your exams with more confidence and enable you to keep up with the pace of our courses and your future career.

 


 

Have a question about IELTS? Our team is always available to answer any questions. Reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

Meet the Replacement for ACS: The NDECC™


Nearly eight months ago,
the NDEB released considerable changes to the Canadian equivalency process for international dentists. Most notably, the ACS examination received the most significant modifications to its existing structure, content, and overall format. 

Under the “Develop” component of their multiple-step strategy called Vision 2022: The Future of the Equivalency Process, the ACS examination was set to receive a new blueprint, skills requirements, and a facility to be constructed and opened for operation in 2022. However, on October 29, the NDEB announced that the current format of the ACS examination would be replaced by a modified skills examination known as the National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence™ or NDECC™, for short. 

In their official release, the NDEB stated the ACS exam in its current format will be administered for the final time in December 2021, while the NDECC will become the third examination of the equivalency process in 2022 following the AFK and ACJ.

 

So, what is the purpose of the NDECC?

The NDECC will continue to evaluate an examinee’s clinical abilities much as the ACS did. This exam will consist of two components requiring dentists to perform seven clinical requirements on simulated manikin-patients in a clinical setting in the first component and ten situational judgment requirements in the second. A basic outline for the NDECC is now available on the NDEB website. 

Based on the announcements so far, here is our breakdown of the two components:

When will the NDECC take effect?

The first NDECC exam will be held in June 2022 at the NDEB’s new testing facility in Ottawa, Ontario, and will be given multiple times a week throughout the year.

Where is the facility located?

The NDECC Test Centre is located at 340 Albert St. 12th Floor Ottawa, ON. The facility includes many other operational rooms, including separate situational judgement rooms and the simulation clinic.

How long does it take to write each component?

The NDECC exam will take place over two days, with clinical skills on the first day and situational judgment on the second day. 

What materials are needed to take the NDECC?

A complete list of equipment, materials, and supplies provided by the NDEB will be released in a practical guide soon. You can bring your own protective eyewear and dental loupes. A disposable gown will also be provided. 

There have been notable changes to the typodonts, teeth, and handpieces (Kavo) used during this exam. Therefore, pay close attention to the lists provided by the NDEB. 

Please note, the preliminary lists do not include equipment and dental supplies needed during training. 

How many attempts will the NDECC allow?

The NDECC can be taken an unlimited amount of times in a five-year period (60 months). 

What does this new exam mean for the future of equivalency in Canada?

While it may seem like the equivalency process is unpredictable at times, the NDECC is a positive change towards the future of equivalency in Canada. In fact, the pandemic has shone a light on the significant hurdles the ACS faced and needed to be addressed. 

“The main positive point I see from this announcement is the unlimited attempts. Back in the older system, it used to be three attempts for clinical skills,” said Prep Doctors co-founder Dr, Marwan Al Rayes during our live webinar. “The environment is also going to be standardized, and now it is going to be the same environment in which the exam is going to be conducted; the flexibility of time [too] are the main advantages.” 

Dr. Al Rayes also spoke to the necessity of dentists enhancing their time management and organization skills in preparing for the two exam components. Listen below to hear more of his thoughts: 

 

 

For more information and to read the NDECC outline, click here. To learn more about the NDECC materials list, click here. To purchase dental materials, please visit Knurling Dental here.

For more details, please direct specific questions about Vision 2022 directly to the NDEB. Also, don’t forget to sign up for our dental equivalency newsletter for our future breakdowns of equivalency-related announcements and Prep Doctors’ course updates.

If you have any questions about our upcoming courses, send us a message on Facebook here

5 Tips for How to Study for the ACJ Exam

Like it or not, intense studying is a crucial part of being prepared for the Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ) exam. Whether you decide to cram a few months before, practice trial and error, or take an exam prep course to dive deeper into the topics of periodontics, endodontics, and restorative dentistry, finding the right approach to passing is key.

As you navigate which study habit is the most effective for you, follow our five tips from Prep Doctors’ instructor, Dr. Khalid Khalid, for how you can study for the ACJ exam to feel most comfortable and confident come exam day.

 

1. Practice, Practice, Practice.

The ACJ exam is a 5.5-hour test consisting of 120 to 150 single-answer and multi-answer multiple-choice questions that offer a case-based assessment to evaluate an examinee’s clinical knowledge and clinical decision-making skills. The exam is divided into two booklets. The first hones in on a candidate’s know-how to formulate a diagnosis and draw clinical conclusions from dental charts, case histories, and photographs. The second booklet looks to test a candidate’s knowledge in oral radiology and their ability to make a radiographic interpretation and diagnosis through radiographic images.

We have found the best path to succeeding in these assessments is to practice… a lot. As ACJ instructor, Dr. Khalid Khalid, who has personally helped many dentists pass the exam, says, “Each x-ray looks different. When we look at x-rays in clinic, that’s in conjunction with what we see in the patient’s mouth, so that’s helpful, for example, for diagnosing caries or diagnosing bone loss or periodontal disease or an infection. It’s not that there is individuality between people. There is individuality between x-rays.”

“With radiology, you can get any x-ray in the exam. We’ve tried to include as much practice as possible in the (ACJ) course for x-rays so when someone is in the exam attempting those questions on their own, they will have that same exact approach of examining the x-rays,” says Dr. Khalid. Looking at x-rays top to bottom, left to right and building on each tooth’s visible structure can allow candidates to comprehensively analyze multiple x-rays as a practice method for “the more you look at x-rays, the more you are able to get from them, in general,” suggests Dr. Khalid.

 

Dentist taking notes in Dr. Khalid's ACJ lecture

 

2. The right approach is balance.

Passing the ACJ exam is all about having the tools needed to approach it with certainty. At Prep Doctors, we are constantly asked what approach candidates should take when they are up against an x-ray that accompanies a question allowing several options to the correct answer. Figuring out how conservative or aggressive you want to be on the exam is not the hurdle you should focus on. As Dr. Khalid says, the answer is neither. Instead, candidates should examine every x-ray singularly and weigh each selection they are given against one another to see which options are clear and worth choosing and which they should leave aside based on uncertainty. 

 

3. Don’t think of the ACJ exam as an open battlefield.

When taking the ACJ exam, there’s typically a debate about the number of correct answers to choose for a single question. As Dr. Khalid mentions, this is “a challenging aspect of the exam to get a grasp on,” as it is relatively subjective.

However, the ACJ is designed to cover basic radiology for a general practitioner. On that account, there is a specific structure to the two main components (patient cases and x-rays) of the exam. 

Put simply, try not to worry about the stress of choosing a certain number of answers; alternatively, “Think of it as a finite number of questions that you might get,” advises Dr. Khalid.

 

Dentist sitting in ACJ lecture and participating by note-taking

 

4. Understand the basics and focus on what’s important.

Coming out of the AFK exam, candidates have an immense amount of knowledge. However, with the ACJ, it’s not always about how much you know, but rather, about focussing on the basic concepts being examined.

“Try to approach different diseases, medical conditions, and aspects of patient care from as many viewpoints as possible and build on it,” says Dr. Khalid. Bring in as many cases as you can of similar diseases with different presentations and cases of different diseases with similar presentations. 

At Prep Doctors, we look at the NDEB’s references for specific topics; including but not limited to, pathology, periodontology, endodontics, radiology, and anesthesia, and cover these evidence-based concepts in our lectures and course material formulating questions, answers, practice sessions, quizzes, and mock exams from them to fully understand and solidify their weight to increase a candidate’s retention of learning. 

 

5. Take an exam preparation course with us. 

Prep Doctors follows a practice-heavy, cover-all-bases approach with more than 100 in-class hours and a problem-based learning method specially tailored to equip you with strategies you can’t find anywhere else. With four computer-based ACJ mock exams and multiple practice sessions for individual cases and radiographs, taking the Prep Doctors ACJ course ensures your success above all else.

To find out the winning ACJ approach and more tips like these from your instructors, Dr. Marwan Al Rayes and  Dr. Khalid Khalid, enroll here. You can also learn more about our ACJ course and what you can expect, watch our ACJ Course Breakdown below or on our YouTube channel here.

 

 

 


 

Have a question about the ACJ exam that you need personally answered? Our team is always available to answer any questions about the NDEB process and dental equivalency. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

For all other essential details and some ACJ study materials from the NDEB’s ACJ Protocol, click here.

Do Exam Results Matter in the NDEB Process?

In Canada, from the tender age of 7 or grade 3, test results start to play a factor in how we view education. It only gets more important as you go through the levels of schooling from the pressures of standardized testing, university admissions, and making the dean’s list. In all of these cases, exam scores are critical to progressing through the education system and eventually finding a job.

At Prep Doctors, we are really proud of the results our trainees achieve. Even with the low passing rates released by the NDEB, our trainees are not only able to get through in large numbers, but they also get really high scores. In the August 2019 AFK exam, we were the only institute to have trainees with perfect scores—not one but three! 

But besides the magical passing grade of 75, what significance do results play in the dental equivalency process? Do previous results from peers or training institutes really mean that much for your upcoming exam, and how do your mock exam and exam scores affect you? These are all key questions—so let’s dig in.

To start, your AFK score really matters. In fact, it could be the deciding factor that gets you invited to interviews/bench tests with a Canadian dental school. There is no set score that will get you in, but 90 or above is generally believed to be a qualifying score these days. It’s important to remember that the AFK score is only one of the factors and some universities give it less importance. Your GPA, resume, and interview/bench test performance are also key factors that universities consider.    

ACJ and NDECC™ results are much less important as the key is to pass these exams to get your license. Of course, there is always the prestige factor associated with scoring high in these exams, and some might use this as legitimacy when pursuing a teaching career. As any school or university student knows, it’s not always the student with the top marks who can explain the work best—so be wary. 

Results do matter in giving you some sense of how well students from certain training centres or institutes are doing, but many factors affect results in the NDEB process. For example, where you study is important, but equally important is how you study, the group of colleagues you study with, and how the NDEB has decided to curve the results in your exam cycle. 

This might seem like a given, but ultimately your exam results are down to you and how much effort you put into studying. Of course, our courses are designed to make the whole process so much more digestible, but in the end, it’s up to you.

How Do I Prepare for the NDEB?

At Prep Doctors, the question we get asked the most is, “How can I pass the NDEB exams?” With this in mind, Prep Doctors is committed to helping international dental professionals stay current and prepare for the NDEB exams and changes through our advanced, state-of-the-art courses covering each of the NDEB examinations to help you pass on your first try.

 

Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)

The AFK exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions testing candidates’ core and basic knowledge of dentistry, biomedical and applied clinical sciences. At Prep Doctors, we know you can’t cut corners when it comes to this exam. In fact, the Prep Doctors AFK preparation course is designed to give you the perfect formula for passing the AFK exam with a high score on your first try. 

This year, Prep Doctors is offering three options for our AFK course—our tried and true Full Course, our new online Crash Course (replacing our review package), and our Mock Exams. 

Learn more about our AFK courses here

Find out essential details and AFK study materials from the NDEB’s AFK Protocol here.

 

Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ)

Known as the most challenging exam in the equivalency process, the ACJ exam is a case-based assessment combining both clinical knowledge and clinical decision-making abilities with oral radiology. The exam is divided into two booklets, with the first testing a candidate’s ability to formulate a diagnosis and make clinical decisions through dental charts, case histories, and photographs. In contrast, the second booklet assesses a candidate’s knowledge in oral radiology and their ability to make a radiographic interpretation and diagnosis through radiographic images. The ACJ also must be taken after the AFK exam

Prep Doctors follows a practice-heavy, cover-all-bases approach with more than 100 in-class hours and a problem-based learning method specially tailored to equip you with strategies you can use on exam day. With four full computer-based ACJ mock exams and multiple practice sessions for individual cases and radiographs, our Prep Doctors ACJ course ensures you have the right tools to take the exam with certainty. 

Learn more about our ACJ courses here

Find out essential details and ACJ study materials from the NDEB’s ACJ Protocol here

 

National Dental Examination of Clinical Competence™ (NDECC™)

The NDECC™ exam, previously known as the ACS exam, tests the practical skills of dentists by requiring them to complete a total of 17 specific projects in a two-day simulated dental clinic. In 2022, the NDEB will introduce two components: Clinical Skills and Situational Judgement requiring dentists to perform seven clinical requirements on simulated manikin-patients in a clinical setting in the first component and ten situational judgment requirements in the second.

At Prep Doctors, we offer an NDECC™ Clinical Skills course to better prepare trainees for the modified examination, including supervised training sessions, instructor time, lab access, and mock exams to prepare you for whatever is coming your way.

Learn more about our NDECC™ course here

Find out essential details from the NDEB’s outline here.


Get more information about upcoming NDEB exam locations and dates here

Despite the challenges and intense regimen each NDEB equivalency process may take, Prep Doctors remains the best place to begin your journey. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the NDEB process and dental equivalency. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

What is the NDEB Equivalency Process?

For anyone looking to sink their teeth into Canadian dentistry, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada’s (NDEB) equivalency process is the place to start.

In Canada, dentistry is a regulated profession. The NDEB works with the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) to grant international dentists the opportunity to become licensed in Canada. With their three-step examination process, the NDEB provides a direct pathway into Canadian dentistry depending on where you obtained your dental education and if you would like to practise as a general dentist, specialist, or both.

What does this NDEB process look like? 

To begin, foreign-trained dentists must apply to be accepted into the Canadian dentistry equivalency process through the NDEB. 

  1. Apply through the NDEB equivalency portal here. You will need to create an NDEB login and online profile on their website as well. 
  2. Pass the AFK exam, the first NDEB exam. (Prep Doctors is now introducing our newest AFK online Crash Course for international dentists who cannot make it to our campuses this cycle.)
  3. Pass the ACJ and NDECC™ exams, the second and third NDEB exams. 
  4. Pass the Written Board and OSCE exams, known as the NDEB’s certification process

Direct Route NDEB Equivalency Process Time: 1.5-2.5 years
NDEB Equivalency Process Fees: $13,050 CAD
Prep Doctors Equivalency Course Fees: Up to $15,000 CAD
Total Equivalency Process Cost: Up to $30,000 CAD**

**This approximation amount is based on a combination of the current NDEB examinations and Prep Doctors Full Course option fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass.

The NDEB’s direct route may take 1.5 to 2.5 years to complete. The NDEB equivalency process costs approximately $30,000 CAD, including the Prep Doctors courses and NDEB exam fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass. When navigating the process, you can expect the following breakdown of NDEB equivalency process fees:

NDEB equivalency fees and tuition chart breakdown for what is the NDEB process blog

Learn more about the NDEB’s exam fees here.

The NDEB also provides foreign-trained dentists with the opportunity to enter the dental profession through a Canadian university. 

What does the university process look like? 

While providing a quicker pathway to the certification process, bridging programs (more accurately known as accredited qualifying and degree completion programs) follow a similar progression.

  1. Apply through the NDEB equivalency portal here. You will need to create an NDEB login and online profile on their website as well. 
  2. Pass the AFK exam with a high score, the first NDEB exam. (For some qualifying and degree completion programs, the AFK must be taken within the last three years of submitting your application. Please reach out to your interested dental school for admission requirements.)
  3. Enroll in and complete a qualifying and degree completion program offered by the Faculties of Dentistry in Canada. You can find a list of programs here
  4. Pass the Written Board and OSCE exams. 

Qualifying and Degree Completion Program Process Time: 2-3 years
Qualifying and Degree Completion Program Process Fees: Up to $90,000 CAD

Qualifying and degree completion programs are unique university programs held over five to six months. After successfully completing these programs, students are admitted into the third year of a Doctor of Dental Surgery Program, leading to a degree (DDS). Overall, a DDS can take two to 2.5 years to complete. The qualifying and degree completion programs process can cost approximately $90,000 CAD.

Regardless of the path you choose to take, each process begins with the AFK exam and ends with the Written Board and OSCE exam

Despite the challenges and intense regimen each NDEB equivalency process may take, Prep Doctors remains the best place to begin your journey, and we have the course for you. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the NDEB process and dental equivalency. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

How to Become a Dentist in Canada

On February 25, 2021, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) announced significant changes to the Canadian dental equivalency process. This article has been updated to reflect those changes.

Becoming an accredited dentist in Canada is no easy feat. The road to practicing dentistry is an intricate, ever-evolving, yet rewarding process that requires highly specialized training and professional development. 

For internationally trained dentists seeking to practice dentistry in Canada, the rewards for getting through the examination process and obtaining your license are tremendous as Canada now ranks in the top five countries in the world to practice dentistry in terms of salary and quality of professional life. First-year associates in Canada start with salaries around $150,000 CAD, and the earning potential for senior associates and clinic owners is vast. 

Currently, there are three routes available that lead to becoming a dentist in Canada. One option is to attend a Canadian university as an undergraduate. If you are an internationally-trained dentist, you can navigate the NDEB process or take the university route by applying to a bridging program.

Let’s explore each route in further detail.

 

Pursuing a Dental Degree:

Admission and application requirements for dental school vary from one institution to another. It is important to contact the respective dental school admissions office to determine the specific admission requirements needed. As part of the admissions process, most Canadian dental schools require applicants to provide Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) scores administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).

Luckily, Canada is home to a variety of prestigious dental schools across the country that prospective students can choose from. These include:

University of Alberta (School of Dentistry)

University of British Columbia (Faculty of Dentistry)

University of Manitoba (Faculty of Dentistry)

Dalhousie University (Faculty of Dentistry)

University of Toronto (Faculty of Dentistry)

The University of Western Ontario (School of Dentistry)

McGill University (Faculty of Dentistry)

Université de Montréal (Faculté de médecine dentaire)

Université Laval (Faculté de médecine dentaire)

University of Saskatchewan (College of Dentistry)

On average, the cost of obtaining a four-year undergraduate dental degree can vary from $50,000 to $200,000 CAD for domestic students and up to $360,000 CAD for international students. Tuition fees typically include both academic, non-academic, and dental instrument fees. However, tuition fees vary for universities, so it is best to do your research before filling out an application.

It’s important to note that registration for the DAT is not an application to dental schools but a step towards getting your foot in the door. Don’t be afraid to schedule a call with an advisor and find out what they’re looking for in successful candidates, such as extracurriculars.

 

The National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB):

To begin the process with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB), you must apply to be accepted into the Canadian Dentistry Equivalency Process. As long as you have a recognized degree, you should be accepted. Due to COVID-19, response times may vary on acceptances as there may be delays to the application process.

Once accepted, the first exam you will need to complete is the AFK (Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge). After you pass this exam, you have two options: you may continue the equivalency process and then take Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ) followed by Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS), or you may apply to a Canadian university and fulfill a two-year bridging program (more on this option below). 

Currently, candidates are allowed three attempts each to pass the AFK and ACJ examinations. Beginning in 2022, however, examinees may attempt the ACS an unlimited number of times within a five-year period. 

If you are successful in the equivalency process, you will then need to take the board exams (OSCE & Written) to get your licence to start practicing in Canada. These exams are a requirement to practice dentistry in Canada for all accredited candidates and Canadian university dental graduates. 

The NDEB equivalency process costs approximately $50,000 CAD, including course and exam fees. This amount may increase depending on how many attempts you need to pass. Here is a typical breakdown of the costs to expect when navigating the Canadian NDEB equivalency process:

The NDEB fee breakdown from Prep Doctors

*All prices are in Canadian dollars and reflect the fees as of April 2021. For the latest updates on NDEB exam fees, please visit the NDEB’s website.

In addition to exam fees, you will need to purchase materials (i.e. kits and reusable teeth) to practice dental procedures and techniques. It is also your responsibility to be fully equipped with all the required materials for the actual exam. 

At Prep Doctors, we provide specialized dental equivalency courses to help students prepare for each exam administered by the NDEB. Our classes consist of various materials and components, such as comprehensive mock exams, detailed textbooks, and extensive lectures. Find out more about our courses, including registration dates, below:

AFK Training Course

ACJ Training Course

ACS Training Course

OSCE & Written Training Course

 

Bridging Programs:

As we mentioned above, following the completion of the NDEB’s AFK exam, you have the option to enroll in a specialized bridging program offered by Canadian universities. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between international and Canadian dental training.

Bridging programs are held over five to six months, and after successful completion of the program, students can enroll directly into the third year of a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery Program (DDS). Overall, a DDS degree program can take 2 to 2.5 years to complete.

If you’re looking to take a bridging course, there are some general qualifications that most Canadian universities require:

  • You must have completed a minimum four-year University dental program not recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
  • You must have a relatively strong GPA (each university has its own GPA standard).
  • Be a Canadian citizen or have permanent residency status in Canada.
  • Provide proof of your English abilities. Students whose first language is not English may be required to write the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and the Test of Written English (TWE), or equivalent.
  • Complete the NDEB’s AFK exam with a high score (preferably 90% or more will greatly improve your chances of acceptance).

If you meet all the requirements for your chosen institution’s program, you will be contacted for an interview or to participate in a bench test.

It is important to note that not every university offers a bridging program. It is best to contact the institution of your choice to confirm its specified entry requirements.

The bridging program process can cost up to $90,000 CAD, but this price may vary depending on tuition fees as well as each institution’s non-refundable application fee. 

At Prep Doctors, we also provide courses that help prepare trainees for Canadian universities’ admission bench tests and interviews. Our courses offer trainees case-based training and practical scenarios designed to guide them through the interview processes at institutions including the University of Toronto and Western University, to name a few.

 

Remember:

Regardless of whichever route you choose, becoming a dentist in Canada is a huge commitment, both financially and in the amount of time needed (find out about financing options here). Always feel free to reach out to the school or institution of your choice to learn more information and weigh your options. 

To help give you the best information to make an informed decision, Prep Doctors offers scheduled tours of our campus and facilities, as well as demo classes and financial counselling. Our team is always available to answer any questions about the dental equivalency journey. So, please reach out to us through our Facebook page or email us at info@prepdoctors.ca. We are more than happy to help!

An Overhaul of the Dental Equivalency Process in Canada

On February 25, 2021, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) announced significant changes to the Canadian dental equivalency process, impacting internationally-trained dentists across the country. 

The question many dentists going through the equivalency process are asking is: “how will these changes affect me?” Our Chief Learning Officer, Dr. Marwan Al Rayes, has conducted a number of webinars sharing our understanding of what has been announced. Here is a breakdown of the upcoming changes and what we know so far.

As part of its five-year strategic plan, the NDEB committed to reviewing the existing equivalency process in Canada. This review analyzed the blueprints for each of its three examinations in the equivalency processthe Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK), the Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ), and the Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS) and identified vital modifications and positive adjustments to evaluate international dental graduates. The changes are part of a multiple-step “Reduce, Change, and Develop” strategy in their Vision 2022: The Future of the NDEB Equivalency Process proposal.

So, what are these changes, and how will they affect each exam? 

 

An infographic that goes from 1-3 to visually list the NDEB changes for Vision 2022

 

The Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK): 

Currently, the AFK exam consists of 300 multiple-choice questions, which tests candidates’ core and basic knowledge of dentistry. Beginning in the August 2021 exam, AFK will now consist of 200 questions under the “Reduce” pillar offering a more comfortable examination experience while still maintaining substantial authenticity and validity for students. The assessment will continue to be administered electronically. 

 

The Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ): 

As part of their “Change” strategy, the second development is the NDEB’s update on sequence and eligibility. As it stands, candidates who are successful in the AFK exam can attempt the ACJ and ACS simultaneously or in the order of their choosing. Starting in 2022, however, eligibility for the assessments will become sequential, and the completion of the ACJ exam will become a prerequisite to undergo the ACS. In other words, once examinees take and pass the AFK, they will only become eligible to take the ACJ. When they complete the ACJ examination process, they may then, and only then, attempt the ACS. This change comes from the standard procedure of practising dentists who consistently apply their clinical judgement before entering into treatment. Therefore, candidates must first demonstrate the appropriate knowledge and decision-making acumen needed to perform dental procedures on patients that very well may be irreversible. 

 

The Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS): 

Finally, several modifications to both the existing structure, overall format, and content of the ACS exam in the “Develop” initiative account for the most consequential changes. The big difference is the introduction of OSCE-style stations for dental procedures, in addition to the traditional psychomotor skills analysis on simulated patients (manikins) in a clinical setting. These contemporary stations will mimic a pharmacy setting and test participants’ ability to interact with patients on conversations surrounding diagnosis, treatment planning, and informed consent. 

The NDEB expects the new ACS format and requirements to take effect in 2022, and these changes will allow for a better analysis of a candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs).

At Prep Doctors, we will be offering a customized package in July for our Assessment of Clinical Skills course to better prepare trainees for the modified-ACS examination. Once the NDEB formally releases its updated blueprint, we will make the necessary modifications to the class. 

Additionally, the current ACS structure comprises 12 project requirements. Presently, participants can fail one of the 12 requirements and still be successful. As with the AFK and ACJ, candidates can attempt the ACS a maximum of three times. In the updated “Develop” strategy,  participants will be able to take the exam an unlimited number of times within a five-year period, but they must pass all 12 requirements. 

The NDEB has also announced they have begun the construction of an in-house ACS testing facility in Ottawa, Ontario. The development of this centre will offer ample opportunity for the NDEB to administer the modified ACS examination in a controlled environment throughout the year, reducing scheduling conflicts and clearing the backlog of candidates. This will also promote a less stressful yet more consistent testing environment. 

 

Are these changes a good thing?

Overall, these changes are definitely a step in the right direction. They help foster a more fair and honest assessment of internationally-trained dentists on their path to dental licensure in Canada. 

At Prep Doctors, we have already begun adapting our curriculum to the upcoming changes. We are committed to making sure our trainees are the best prepared to clear this challenging process — now and in the future.

 

For more details, please direct specific questions about Vision 2022 directly to the NDEB. Don’t forget to sign up for our dental equivalency newsletter for our future breakdowns of equivalency-related announcements and Prep Doctors’ course updates.  

If you have any questions about our upcoming courses, send us a message on Facebook here.

AFK Exam Cancellation: Our Statement

As you may be aware, a few days ago, the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) announced the cancellation of the upcoming Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam due to their ongoing investigation into reports of alleged cheating in respect of prior exams. This AFK exam was scheduled to take place on February 05-06, 2021. The cancellation comes after the NDEB announced that they launched an investigation on December 21 of last year.

Cheating on licensure exams provides an unfair advantage for those who cheat and more importantly compromises the integrity of the board exams. These exams are meant to safeguard the dentistry profession from unqualified individuals. As an educational institution, we take a firm stance against cheating. We do not support nor condone cheating, in any respect, for any and all professional licensing examinations.

There have been a number of exam cancellations in 2020 due to COVID and now in 2021 due to the NDEB’s investigation into alleged reports of cheating. These cancellations will have an impact on the number of Internationally trained dentists entering the market over the next couple of years unless measures can be taken to make up for those delays.

It is unfortunate that this situation has arisen. It is having a widespread negative impact on many who have studied hard for the AFK exam and have done nothing wrong.

We empathize with our hardworking trainees who put their lives on hold to pursue their dreams of becoming licensed dentists in Canada. We know that many were affected by the relatively short notice given due to the COVID situation. We have received reports that some of our trainees have already travelled to Canada because of the self-isolation requirements imposed due to COVID. We are sympathetic to those trainees who have had to travel to write the now cancelled AFK exam.

The NDEB’s withholding of the last exam’s results and the cancellation of the AFK exam will slow down but will not stop the journey of becoming a licensed dentist in Canada. We want our trainees to know that we are here to continue to support them through their journey. We have already connected with our dentists who have been affected by this cancellation and will be scheduling another session in the near future.

Firas Abu Saleh is the CEO and co-founder of Prep Doctors.

 

The NDEB Process vs. Bridging Programs: What’s the Difference?

As an internationally-trained dentist, there are two routes available when looking to become a licensed dentist in Canada. You have the option to apply to the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) equivalency process or opt to enroll in an academic bridging program that’s offered at Canadian universities. 

Although each option has its benefits and challenges, it is important to understand what each option offers. So, what is the difference between the NDEB process and bridging programs?

 

Option 1: The NDEB Process:  

The most popular method for internationally-trained dentists is taking the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) exams. The NDEB is a governing body that creates and administers assessments that identify the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in Canada’s dental job field. When opting to take this route you will have to appear for and clear 3 exams:

Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)

Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ)

Assessment of Clinical Studies (ACS) 

Once you have cleared these exams, the next step is to go through the NDEB’s certification process where you will need to clear two final exams:

OSCE 

Written

Before taking the exams, you will have to apply for the NDEB Equivalency Process by creating an online profile through the NDEB’s Online Portal.

Once you have created your profile, you will need to submit the following documents to be approved by the NDEB:

– Government-Issued Photo Identification

– Proof of Name Change/Difference in name if applicable

– Translation of Proof of name change/difference in name, if applicable

– Final Dental Diploma/Degree

– Translation of Academic Records, if applicable

– Internship Completion Certificate, if applicable

 

You will need to arrange to have a Confirmation of Degree completion form and your academic records sent to the NDEB by your university.

For those who are looking for a quicker route in obtaining dental equivalency, the NDEB process is the ideal option.

The shortest time in which this process can be completed is 1.5 years, provided you clear the exams on the first try. The NDEB allows you 3 attempts each exam to get a passing score. It is important to note that you must score at least 75% on each exam in order to advance to the next exam. 

Although you can prepare for the exams on your own, Prep Doctors helps with preparing trainees for the exams. Prep Doctors can help with that as well as provide you with the confidence and knowledge that will help you adapt to the landscape of Canadian dentistry. 

For more information on our NDEB equivalency courses, click here

 

Option 2: Academic Bridging Program

In Canada, there are specialized bridging programs offered by universities that focus on bridging the gap between international training and Canadian training. After successful completion of this program, students are able to transition into the third year of a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery Program (DDS). These programs can be anywhere from 2-3 years in duration. 

So how does one get into a bridging program? Well, similar to the NDEB route, you will need to complete the NDEB’s AFK exam. However, there are some distinct differences in the qualifications that are required of a trainee.

Trainees looking to take the bridging program route must have the following:

 

– Canadian citizen or permanent resident

– Graduated from a four-year university program (not recognized in Canada) 

– Relatively strong GPA (Every university has its own grading scale)

– Must have cleared an English proficiency test

– Appeared for the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) exam (85% or higher)

 

Bridging programs are offered by Canadian universities by various names but generally have the same qualifications and program aspects. These programs include:  

– University of British Columbia – International Dental Degree Completion Program

– University of Toronto – International Dentist Advanced Placement Program (IDAPP)

– University of Manitoba – International Dentist Degree Program

– University of Western Ontario – Internationally Trained Dentists (ITD) Program

 

Canadian universities are incredibly competitive when it comes to this route due to the limited amount of dental programs in Canada, especially compared to other job fields. So when applying for a bridging program, besides having a relatively high score on the AFK exam, you must also write an essay and have a resume of extracurriculars that show you’re a well-rounded candidate. 

A common question is, “what kind of extracurriculars do universities typically look for?”. Well, extracurriculars can include a wide range of activities including volunteering, sports and community service. It is also extremely beneficial to have some dental shadowing and clinical hours under your belt as well. 

If your application meets these requirements, the university will invite you to an interview or conduct a bench test. 

At Prep Doctors, we have courses that help to prepare for various universities’ interview processes. Check out our courses below:

University of Toronto | Admissions Course

Universities Admissions Course | Western, Manitoba, Alberta

 

Pricing

When researching your options, it is no doubt that pricing plays a big part in helping to determine what your final decision will ultimately be. Taking the NDEB route can cost upwards of CAD 50,000 depending on how many attempts as well as exam fees. Tuition fees for bridging programs can vary, depending on the university. It is important to note that there is a non-refundable application fee when applying for any bridging program. For a full breakdown of prices, check out our blog: How to Become a Dentist in Canada.

 

So, which one should you choose?

Figuring out which route is best for you depends on what will work best for your situation. If you’re looking to complete your equivalency in a shorter amount of time or the cheapest overall route, the NDEB route is your best option. However, if you do achieve a high score on the AFK exam, although the more expensive route, applying for the university route is an option to consider. 

If you ever have any questions or you’re just looking for a bit of clarification, Prep Doctors is always here to help. Whether on our Facebook page, through email at feedback@prepdoctors.ca or by phone (+1 855-397-7737), we’re more than happy to help craft the best path for you!

Q&A with Dr. Marwan Recap

Missed the Q&A? Don’t sweat it. Watch the full recording of our presentation down below:

 

 

The occurrence of COVID-19 has undoubtedly caused shake-ups within the Canadian dental landscape. From the upcoming NDEB schedule to how trainees have adapted to online methods of teaching, we wanted to equip internationally-trained dentists with the knowledge to help navigate through these changes.

So, what are the key things to understand about all of these new changes? That was the subject of our recent live Q&A with our Chief Learning Officer and lead instructor, Dr. Marwan Al Rayes. 

Here are some of the key takeaways from our live Q&A: 

 

NDEB Exams: 

The NDEB has been very impressive in how they have handled a lot of concerns and rumours in regards to future exam dates. Here is what we learned about what is in store for our courses:

Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK): The NDEB has cancelled their August exam and has postponed it to December 16, 2020. The February 2021 exam will continue on as planned. For the December exam, we will have a unique comprehensive review course that is structured specifically for the postponed exam. The course will include access to all the main features of the regular course such as live lectures, review lectures on and mock exams.

Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ): The ACJ exams will take place in September and November of 2020. We will also have a condensed course to accommodate those that will be taking the rescheduled ACJ exam in September. This course is designed to deliver complete ACJ content for new students or returning students who need a refresher close to the exam date. The course will consist of 4 mock exams and 4 mock discussions. Lectures will be held online but the mock exams will take place on campus. 

The ACJ Condensed course will also consist of ACS components which will be delivered in a form of 4 weekly webinars that are scheduled post-exam. Including the ACS module, the course is 13 weeks in duration which will also make you eligible for CESB, if needed. 

 

Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS) : The scheduled ACS exam will take place December 2020 and   our course will begin on July 13th.

The NDEB released a schedule of all dates for the exams that will take place for the remainder of 2020 into 2021 that can be found here.

 

ACS in the lab:

The COVID-19 pandemic created a situation that was difficult for most industries to operate in. For us the clinical skills lab posed a particular challenge as our trainees spend a lot of time in our labs and traditionally worked in close quarters with instructors and fellow trainees.

During the lockdown, we implemented new ways to check students’ work that we found worked so well, we will be adapting our ACS course in order to keep those changes. Those changes include, using HD cameras to do work-check and live online demos, and online one-on-one sessions between trainees and instructors. 

With ACS being one of the more hands-on courses, there will be some new changes and techniques put into place. We went back and looked at the regulations of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario and had in-depth conversations with officials who are in agreement with the changes to our facilities. We have installed air purifiers and acrylic barriers in the labs to allow for more isolation, trainees will have their temperature taken upon arrival, masks and gloves will be required at all times for both trainees and staff when in the labs and around the office, sanitization stations will be available.

Online options will still be available for ACS courses. 

 

OSCE and Written Exam: The OSCE and Written exams will take place in September 2021. You can find more information about our upcoming OSCE and Written courses here

 

CESB:

With Prep Doctors now being a certified educational institute, some of our trainees may qualify for the Canada Student Emergency Benefit (CESB). We have received many questions about qualifications and we strongly urge those interested to view our handy CESB guide that can be found on our blog. Use the link below to check it out:

https://prepdoctors.ca/qualify-for-cesb/ 

Do exam results matter in the NDEB process?

In Canada, from the tender age of 7 or grade 3, test results start to play a factor in how we view education. It only gets more important as you go through the levels of schooling from the pressures of standardized testing, university admissions and making the dean’s list. In all of these cases, exam scores are really important to progressing through the education system and eventually finding a job.

At Prep Doctors we are really proud of the results our trainees are able to achieve. Even with the low passing rates of NDEB exams our trainees are not only able to get through in large numbers they also getting really high scores. In the August 2019 AFK exam, we were the only institute to have trainees with perfect scores – not one but three! 

But besides the magical passing grade of 75, what significance do results play in the dental equivalency process? Do previous results from peers or training institutes really mean that much for your upcoming exam and how do your mock exam and exam scores affect you? These are all key questions – so let’s dig in.

To start with, your AFK score really matters, in fact, it could be the deciding factor that gets you invited to interviews/bench tests with a Canadian dental school. There is no set score that will get you in but 90 and above is generally believed to be a qualifying score these days. It’s important to remember that the AFK score is only one of the factors and some universities give it less importance. Your GPA, resume, and interview/bench test performance are also key factors that universities consider.    

ACJ and ACS results are much less important as the key is just to pass these exams so you can get your license. Of course, there is always the prestige factor that is associated with scoring high in these exams and some might use this as some sort of legitimacy when pursuing a teaching career. As any school or university student knows it’s not always the student with the top marks who can explain the work best – so be wary. 

Results do matter in giving you some sense of how well students from certain training centres or institutes are doing but there are many factors that affect results in the NDEB process. Where you study is important but equally important is how you study, the group of colleagues you study with and how the NDEB has decided to curve the results in your exam cycle. 

This might seem like a given but ultimately your exam results are down to you and how much effort you put into studying. Our courses are designed to make the whole process so much more digestible but in the end, it’s up to you.

Shopping cart0
There are no products in the cart!
Continue shopping
0