The ACJ exam is the second stage of the NDEB Equivalency Process — the required pathway for internationally trained dentists to become licensed in Canada. Unlike the AFK exam, which tests foundational knowledge, ACJ evaluates how well you apply that knowledge to real clinical scenarios: diagnosis, treatment planning, and radiographic interpretation.

This guide covers exactly what the 2027 ACJ exam looks like, what it costs to prepare for, and how to build the clinical reasoning skills the exam actually tests — not just memorized facts.

ACJ Exam Format

Case-Based

Clinical scenario questions

💻

Computer-based

🩻

Radiographic interpretation

The exam presents realistic patient cases and asks candidates to interpret clinical and radiographic findings, arrive at a diagnosis, and select the safest, most appropriate treatment plan. Passing ACJ requires having passed AFK first, and confirms you can apply dental knowledge the way a practicing dentist in Canada would be expected to.

What the ACJ Exam Actually Tests

Unlike AFK, ACJ isn't about recalling facts — it's about applying them correctly under realistic clinical conditions.

🔍

Diagnosis

Interpreting clinical findings and patient history to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.

🩻

Radiographic Interpretation

Reading and interpreting radiographs as part of the diagnostic and treatment planning process.

📋

Treatment Planning

Selecting the safest, most logical, evidence-based treatment for each case presented.

⚠ Why knowing the material isn't enough

Candidates who prepare only by reviewing textbooks and lecture notes often struggle on exam day, because ACJ tests applied clinical reasoning under realistic case conditions — not recall. Working through mock exams and case-based practice is what actually closes this gap.

2027 Study Timeline

Phase Focus
Months 1–2 Core clinical case review and radiology fundamentals
Months 3–4 Treatment planning practice + case discussions
Final weeks Full-length mock exams + weak-area remediation

See our ACJ Mock Exam Program for realistic case-based practice, or our detailed ACJ Treatment Planning Guide for a deeper look at that specific skill.

NDECC Mock

What the ACJ Exam Costs in 2027

Cost Category Amount (CAD)
Official NDEB ACJ exam fee $1,350
ConfiDentist ACJ Comprehensive $3,199

Official NDEB fee current as of the July 2025 fee schedule. ConfiDentist pricing reflects the most recent published cycle — confirm this is still your current rate before publishing, and add rows for any other active course formats (e.g. Extended, bundles) once you have confirmed pricing for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the ACJ exam test in 2027?

The ACJ exam evaluates clinical judgment through case-based scenarios covering diagnosis, radiographic interpretation, and treatment planning — testing how you apply dental knowledge, not just recall it.

Do I need to pass AFK before taking ACJ?

Yes. ACJ is the second stage of the NDEB Equivalency Process, and candidates must pass AFK first to become eligible.

When is the 2027 ACJ exam?

The next confirmed 2027 ACJ sitting is May 4, 2027, with a registration deadline of April 5, 2027. Registration opens December 8, 2026. Always confirm current dates on the official NDEB examination calendar, as sittings are added over time.

How much does the ACJ exam cost in 2027?

The official NDEB ACJ exam fee is $1,350 CAD (effective July 1, 2025 fee schedule). Total investment including preparation courses, materials, and any travel typically adds several thousand dollars on top of the base fee.

What happens after I pass the ACJ exam?

Passing ACJ makes you eligible to register for the NDECC — the third and final stage of the NDEB Equivalency Process.