AFK vs ACJ: which NDEB assessment comes next for you?
The AFK tests what you know: 200 single-answer questions in two 2-hour parts, across biomedical science and every clinical discipline, with many short recall questions. The ACJ tests what you would do: about 150 case-based questions, some with more than one correct answer, built on histories, periodontal charts, photographs and radiographs. You must pass the AFK first. The ACJ is shorter on recall and heavier on diagnosis and treatment planning, and a multi-answer question scores nothing unless every pick is right.
AFK vs ACJ at a glance
| AFK | ACJ | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | NDEB Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) | NDEB Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ) |
| Questions | 200 single-answer multiple-choice questions | About 150 single-answer and multi-answer multiple-choice questions (the NDEB lists 120 to 150), many built on case histories, charts, radiographs and photographs |
| Time | 4 hours: two parts of 2 hours each, on one day, with one scheduled break | About 5 hours of testing with one scheduled break (a 5.5-hour session) |
| Passing score | A test-equated, re-scaled score of 75 (the NDEB's standardized passing score); there is no penalty for wrong answers | A test-equated, re-scaled score of 75 (the NDEB's standardized passing score); multi-answer questions score 1 only if every correct option and no wrong option is chosen |
| Format | Closed book, single-answer multiple choice, computer-based or paper booklet | Closed book, computer-based, case-based single- and multi-answer multiple choice |
| Cost | C$1,000 per attempt (fees effective 1 July 2025), plus the one-time C$900 Equivalency Process application fee | C$1,350 per attempt (fees effective 1 July 2025) |
| Languages | English and French | English and French |
| Where | Computer-based at Prometric test centres (in Canada and select international locations, including Australia and New Zealand) or as a paper booklet at select exam sites in Canada | Computer-based at Prometric test centres in Canada and select international locations, including Australia and New Zealand |
| Level | NDEB Equivalency Process | NDEB Equivalency Process |
What each exam covers
AFK
- Applied Biomedical Sciences
- Restorative Dentistry, Prosthodontics and Implants
- Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology
- Pharmacology, Local Anesthesia and Medical Emergencies
- Orthodontics, Pediatric, Geriatric and Special Needs Dentistry
- Periodontics and Endodontics
- Oral Surgery, Trauma, Orofacial Pain and Dental Emergencies
- Evidence-Based Dentistry, Prevention, Infection Control and Ethics
ACJ
- Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Surgery
- Pharmacotherapeutics and Medically Complex Patients
- Cariology and Restorative Dentistry
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
- Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
Which should you take?
The AFK tests what you know: 200 single-answer questions in two 2-hour parts, across biomedical science and every clinical discipline, with many short recall questions. The ACJ tests what you would do: about 150 case-based questions, some with more than one correct answer, built on histories, periodontal charts, photographs and radiographs. You must pass the AFK first. The ACJ is shorter on recall and heavier on diagnosis and treatment planning, and a multi-answer question scores nothing unless every pick is right.
Try both, free
Each free practice test takes about 10 minutes and shows your score by topic. No signup.
FAQ
What is the difference between AFK and ACJ?
The AFK tests what you know: 200 single-answer questions in two 2-hour parts, across biomedical science and every clinical discipline, with many short recall questions. The ACJ tests what you would do: about 150 case-based questions, some with more than one correct answer, built on histories, periodontal charts, photographs and radiographs. You must pass the AFK first. The ACJ is shorter on recall and heavier on diagnosis and treatment planning, and a multi-answer question scores nothing unless every pick is right.
Which is harder, AFK or ACJ?
AFK: 200 single-answer multiple-choice questions in 4 hours: two parts of 2 hours each, on one day, with one scheduled break. ACJ: about 150 single-answer and multi-answer multiple-choice questions (the ndeb lists 120 to 150), many built on case histories, charts, radiographs and photographs in about 5 hours of testing with one scheduled break (a 5.5-hour session). The longer exam covers more ground, but the harder one is the one further from your daily work. Take both free practice tests to see where you stand.
Can I hold both AFK and ACJ?
Yes, in order. The AFK and ACJ are the first two of three assessments in the NDEB Equivalency Process: you must pass the AFK before you can take the ACJ, and then the NDECC. After that comes the Virtual OSCE for NDEB certification.
How do I prepare for AFK and ACJ?
Start with the free practice test for each, then study by topic. Premium is per exam (C$207 a month each), so most people start with the exam they'll sit first and add the second when they're ready.
More comparisons
Exam details are summarized from the National Dental Examining Board of Canada's published information as of October 2026. Confirm with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada before you book. AFKQuizBank is not affiliated with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada or Prometric.