How to become a dentist in Australia from India (2026): ADC route, fees & timeline

1. Gather documents & meet the English standard

The Dental Board's registration standard is IELTS Academic 7.0 in each component (or OET B in each sub-test) - verify current rules and the test-combining allowances on the Ahpra standard. Certified copies and translations add cost and weeks.

• BDS degree + transcripts (certified)
• DCI registration + good standing certificate
• Internship certificate
• Passport
• IELTS/OET result

Ahpra - English language skills standard

2. ADC initial assessment of qualifications

Paper assessment that your qualification is substantially equivalent enough to sit the exams. AUD 647; the outcome stays valid for 7 years.

ADC initial assessment (current): AUD 647

• All stage-1 documents

ADC - fees

3. Pass the ADC written examination

Two days of computer-based MCQ/SJT (scientific basis + clinical dentistry), delivered via Pearson VUE - sittable in India. AUD 2,122; a pass is valid ~3 years, so plan the practical within that window.

ADC written examination (current): AUD 2,122

ADC - written examination Pearson VUE - ADC

4. Pass the ADC practical examination

Two days of simulated clinical tasks in Melbourne against Australian competency standards. AUD 4,775 - budget flights, stay and typodont practice time on top. Waitlists can be long; book the moment you pass the written.

ADC practical examination (current): AUD 4,775

ADC - practical examination

5. Register with the Dental Board (Ahpra)

Apply for general registration with your ADC certificate. Annual registration fee AUD 818 (2025/26 cycle) plus application fee - check current amounts on Ahpra.

Dental Board annual registration (2025/26): AUD 818

• ADC completion certificate
• English evidence (in date)
• Identity documents

Dental Board of Australia - registration

6. Visa & first Australian job

Dentists appear on Australian skilled occupation lists - common routes are employer-sponsored (482/494) or points-tested (189/190) visas; rules shift with each migration program year, so verify on the Home Affairs site. DentalSync's Australia listings flag sponsoring employers.

• Ahpra registration
• Skills assessment (ADC outcome)
• Visa application

Home Affairs - work visas DentalSync - Australia jobs