What English score do I need for the ADC exam?

The ADC does not require an English test to sit its examinations. English-language evidence is assessed for registration by Ahpra and the National Boards. For tests taken on or after 23 April 2026, use Ahpra's current table of accepted tests and minimum scores.

Which English test should a dentist choose?

Ahpra states that its accepted tests are benchmarked to the same required level of English-language competence. Choose an approved test based on its format, availability and your preparation needs, then confirm the current Ahpra requirements before booking.

How long are English test scores valid for AHPRA?

English test results are generally accepted for two years before the date you lodge your registration application. Ahpra describes limited continuous-work and continuous-study exceptions, so check the current standard before relying on an older result.

AHPRA Registration

English Language Requirements for Dental Registration in Australia

Q: Do I need IELTS before taking the ADC exam?

No. You do not need to pass an English test before sitting the ADC Written or Practical Exams. English proficiency is required at the AHPRA registration stage, after you have passed both ADC exams. However, many candidates choose to complete their English test early to avoid delays after passing.

English-language requirements are set by Ahpra and the National Boards for registration — not by the ADC for its examinations. Requirements changed on 23 April 2026, so the date on which you take your test matters.

Important clarification: The ADC (Australian Dental Council) does not require English proficiency to sit its exams. The English requirement comes from the Dental Board of Australia at the AHPRA registration stage — after you pass both ADC exams. Many candidates confuse these two requirements. You do NOT need IELTS/OET/PTE before taking the ADC Written Exam.

Accepted English tests and current minimum scores

For tests taken on or after 23 April 2026, Ahpra accepts five tests under the common registration standard. The exact modality and two-sitting rules also apply, so read the official table before booking.

Tests taken on or after 23 April 2026

IELTS AcademicOverall 7; L 7, R 7, W 6.5, S 7

OETL 350, R 360, W 350, S 360

PTE AcademicOverall 63; L 58, R 59, W 60, S 76

Other accepted testsCambridge C1/C2 and TOEFL iBT

Results timingGenerally two years, subject to the current Ahpra standard

How to choose a test

Ahpra states that the accepted tests are benchmarked to the same required level of English-language competence. Choose an accepted test based on its approved format, availability, accessibility arrangements and the preparation method that suits you — not on claims that one route is easier.

When to take your English test

Test results are generally accepted for two years before the date you lodge your registration application. Ahpra describes limited exceptions for continuous work or study, with conditions. Keep your expected ADC and registration timeline in view, then confirm your own result's validity against the current standard.

Do not delay registration unnecessarily after completing the ADC pathway simply because you relied on an old planning guide. Confirm the current English-language evidence requirements when you are ready to apply.

Check the date of your test. Ahpra changed minimum scores on 23 April 2026. The former table applies to tests taken on or before 22 April 2026; the current table applies to tests taken on or after 23 April 2026.

Other pathways and individual circumstances

The standard includes pathways based on recognised education and, in specified circumstances, continuous work or study. These are fact-specific. Do not assume that an English-medium degree or a previous test result automatically meets the standard; check the current Ahpra requirements for your own application.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need IELTS before taking the ADC exam?

No. English proficiency is required for AHPRA registration, not for the ADC exams themselves. You can sit both the Written and Practical Exams without an English test result.

What English score do I need for AHPRA?

For tests taken on or after 23 April 2026, use Ahpra's current official table. It lists five accepted tests, component scores and rules for one or two sittings.

Which test should I choose?

Ahpra says accepted tests are benchmarked to the same required level. Choose an approved test based on its format, availability and your preparation needs.

How long are English test scores valid?

They are generally accepted for two years before you lodge your registration application, with limited exceptions described in the current Ahpra standard.

Can I meet the standard without a new test?

Ahpra sets out education, work and test pathways. Check the current standard against your own evidence instead of relying on a general rule of thumb.

Official English-language requirements

English-language standards are set by Ahpra and the National Boards, not Reviz. Confirm the table that applies to the date of your test before booking.

Primary sources checked 13 August 2026.

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What is Reviz?

Reviz is an independent ADC Written Exam preparation platform for overseas dentists. Build clinical reasoning with source-cited ADC-style practice questions and daily revision support.

Reviz is not affiliated with the Australian Dental Council.

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