As questions arise, this page will be continually updated with answers.

Will I need to relocate?

Should you be selected for the pre-assessment, you will be required to attend in person for a duration of six days. If you are selected to participate in the training, you will need to be in person for approximately eight months.

How long is the training program?

The BTDPC program is anticipated to be completed within eight months. The program currently runs from early fall to late spring.

What universities will offer the training programs?

The training locations are:

Alberta: University of Alberta
Nova Scotia: Dalhousie University
Québec: l’Université Laval

How will this program impact existing Advanced Placement (AP) programs?

This program will not replace existing advanced placement programs that some universities currently offer. The BTDPC is another pathway for preparation for licensure for graduates from non-accredited programs.

Is it mandatory that all dental schools/faculties implement this program?

No, it is not mandatory that all dental schools/faculties adopt the new program. Following completion of the two years of pilot program delivery, this program will be made available to all dental schools/faculties in Canada through the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD), and it will be up to the schools/faculties individually to develop a plan for its deployment.

Is this program also applicable to dental specialists?

It is important to note that this program is for general dentistry training. Dental specialists are eligible to apply; however, the program is directed at training for general dentistry practice in Canada for graduates from non-accredited programs, not specialty practice in Canada.

What happens when I successfully complete this program?

Trainees will be eligible to move directly to the Virtual OSCE with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) and then apply for licensure to practice dentistry in Canada.

How does the ACFD Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada Program differ from non-university programs?

The ACFD BTDPC program aims to provide participants with a broad range of learning activities to better prepare them for dental practice in Canada, rather than focusing on preparing them for passing particular exams.

Do I need to take the NDECC after completing the program?

Trainees who complete the BTDPC program for the 2026-27 cohort and afterwards will no longer be required to write the NDECC. Instead, trainees will be eligible to move directly to the Virtual OSCE with the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB), and then apply for licensure to practice dentistry in Canada.

If I applied last year and was not accepted, do I need to submit an application?

Yes, you must submit a new online application and fees each year. Your documents will need to be uploaded to your new application.

Does the program have a waiting list?

No, the program does not have a waiting list for admission. All applicants must reapply if they do not receive admission and are in open competition for any given year.

Do students work with patients during the program?

Students will work with patients during the program.

Why do I need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada?

This program does not accept individuals on student visas, nor is it eligible to sponsor student visas.

Don’t see your question?

If you still have a question after reviewing the provided information, email us at btdpcpilot@acfd.ca. Note: We are unable to confirm eligibility for the program beyond the information provided on the website.