A Comprehensive Timeline for Internationally Trained Dentists Pursuing Licensure in Canada
For internationally trained dentists aiming to practice in Canada, the Equivalency Process is one of the most critical and rigorous phases in the journey toward licensure. It evaluates whether the academic education and clinical competence acquired outside Canada align with the standards set by Canadian dental institutions.
Naturally, one of the most important questions aspiring candidates have is:
How long does the Equivalency Process take to complete?
The answer can vary based on several factors—including your preparation time, availability of exam dates, personal schedule, and whether you pass each assessment on the first attempt. On average, the process can take 18 months to 3 years from start to finish.
This blog will break down the timeline step-by-step, help you understand what influences your duration, and guide you on how to plan your journey efficiently.
What Is the Equivalency Process?
Before diving into timelines, let’s quickly recap what the Equivalency Process entails. It is a pathway designed for internationally educated dentists whose dental degrees were obtained from non-accredited dental programs. This process ensures their skills, knowledge, and competencies are equivalent to those of graduates from accredited Canadian dental programs.
The process includes:
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Credential Verification
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Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)
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Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ)
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Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS)
Once a candidate successfully completes all three assessments, they become eligible to proceed to the Certification Process, which is the final step before licensure.
Timeline Breakdown of Each Stage
1. Credential Verification
Estimated Time: 3 to 6 months
This is the very first step where you submit your academic documents, including transcripts, degrees, and proof of dental education. These documents must be evaluated and verified to confirm eligibility.
What can affect this stage:
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Delays from universities in sending documents
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Incomplete submissions
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Need for translations or notarizations
How to speed up:
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Prepare all documents in advance
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Use trusted transcript forwarding services
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Confirm requirements before submission
2. Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)
Estimated Preparation Time: 4 to 8 months
Exam Offered: Twice a year (typically March and August)
Once credential verification is complete, you can register for the AFK, a multiple-choice exam that evaluates your understanding of biomedical and clinical sciences relevant to dentistry.
Time between registration and exam date: Usually 2 to 3 months
Results turnaround: Typically 6 to 8 weeks after the exam
How to speed up:
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Begin preparation while waiting for credential verification
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Register as soon as you are eligible
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Use well-known study guides and join study groups
3. Assessment of Clinical Judgment (ACJ)
Estimated Preparation Time: 3 to 6 months
Exam Offered: Once or twice a year
The ACJ assesses your decision-making skills, diagnosis, and interpretation of clinical information. It involves radiograph analysis and treatment planning scenarios.
Exam wait time: Depends on availability (could be 3 to 6 months after AFK)
Results turnaround: Usually 6 to 8 weeks
How to speed up:
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Pre-schedule your preparation immediately after AFK
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Keep track of available testing dates
4. Assessment of Clinical Skills (ACS)
Estimated Preparation Time: 4 to 6 months
Exam Offered: Typically 1 to 3 times per year, depending on capacity
This is the most hands-on exam in the Equivalency Process and evaluates your ability to perform clinical procedures on manikins. Candidates are required to demonstrate skills such as crown preparations, restorations, and endodontic access.
Exam wait time: Can be 6 months or more due to high demand
Results turnaround: Typically 6 to 8 weeks
How to speed up:
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Apply as soon as eligible
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Secure a seat early—these spots fill quickly
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Attend practice courses or simulated clinics to reduce prep time
Total Estimated Duration
Here is a typical timeline, assuming the candidate passes each exam on the first attempt and faces no delays:
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Credential Verification | 3 – 6 months |
| AFK Preparation & Results | 6 – 8 months |
| ACJ Preparation & Results | 4 – 6 months |
| ACS Preparation & Results | 5 – 8 months |
| Total Estimated Time | 18 – 28 months |
However, if a candidate needs to re-take an exam, is unable to get a test date immediately, or delays preparation, the timeline can stretch to 3 years or more.
What Factors Affect the Timeline?
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Exam availability: Limited seats and fixed dates can delay progress.
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First-time pass rate: Retaking exams adds months to the process.
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Preparation needs: Some candidates take longer to prepare due to personal or professional commitments.
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Document delays: Issues in credential verification can cause early-stage delays.
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Immigration and travel planning: Candidates living outside Canada must factor in visa processing and travel logistics.
Tips to Complete the Equivalency Process Faster
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Start early with document collection and verification.
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Overlap your exam preparation with waiting periods.
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Register for exams as soon as you’re eligible.
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Join peer study groups for motivation and accountability.
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Use established study materials and mock tests.
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Avoid procrastination—treat each stage with urgency.
What Happens After Completing the Equivalency Process?
Once all three assessments are passed, candidates become eligible to enter the Certification Process, which involves the Written Examination and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This process generally takes another 6 to 12 months, including preparation and result processing.
After receiving the Certificate of Qualification, candidates can then apply for licensure through the dental regulatory authority in the province or territory where they wish to practice.
Final Thoughts
Completing the Equivalency Process is a significant commitment, both in terms of time and effort. While the average timeline ranges from 18 months to 3 years, candidates who plan strategically and stay focused can complete it more efficiently.
It’s important to understand that while the journey may be long, each step is designed to ensure that dentists entering the Canadian system meet the highest standards of care and competence.
With proper planning, persistence, and a clear understanding of the process, you can successfully navigate this phase and take a major step forward in becoming a licensed dental professional in Canada.
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