Practicing Dentistry in Canada After Studying in Georgia, Mexico, Lebanon, Spain, Germany and Italy.

Are you a dental student or graduate and planning to practice in Canada?
You’re not alone!
Many internationally trained dentists choose Canada to pursue their careers, but the licensing process can feel overwhelming.

Your Pathway to Dental Practice in Canada

If you earned your dental degree from:
Georgia, Mexico, Lebanon, Spain, Germany and Italy,
your program is considered non-accredited in Canada.
That means you’ll need to complete one of the two recognized pathways set by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB).

Option A: NDEB Equivalency Process

This is a direct route for internationally trained dentists.

Steps:
1. Create an NDEB Profile
Start by submitting your academic credentials through the NDEB portal.
2. Pass the Following Exams:
• AFK (Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge)
Tests your understanding of basic biomedical and clinical sciences.
• ACJ (Assessment of Clinical Judgement)
Focuses on case scenarios and radiograph interpretation.
• ACS or OSCE (Clinical Skills/Simulation)
A hands-on exam using mannequins and simulated cases.
3. Write the NDEB Certification Exam
Once you pass all three assessments, you’ll be eligible to take the NDEB written and OSCE exams. Upon passing, you’ll earn your Certificate of Qualification.
4. Apply for Licensure
Submit your application to the dental regulatory body in your desired province (e.g., Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia). Some provinces require additional steps like a jurisprudence exam.

Option B: Qualifying or Degree Completion Programs

Prefer to study at a Canadian university? Some dental schools offer 2-year advanced placement programs for internationally trained dentists. These programs lead to a Canadian DDS/DMD degree.

Requirements:
• Pass the AFK exam
• Apply to universities (U of T, UBC, McGill, Western, etc.)
• Complete interviews, English tests, and application essays

Once you graduate, you’re eligible to write the NDEB Certification Exam directly and apply for licensure.

Important Considerations

• English Proficiency: Most provinces and universities require IELTS or TOEFL scores.
• Visa/Immigration: You’ll need a study permit for school, or explore Permanent Residency through Express Entry if eligible.
• Costs: The Equivalency Process may cost $10,000–$20,000 CAD. University programs can cost $80,000+ over 2 years.