The New NDEB Bridge Training Pathway: Who Qualifies, and How to Prepare for the AFK That Gets You In
Canada has opened a new bridge program for internationally trained dentists, and completing it can take you straight to the Virtual OSCE without sitting the NDECC. Here is exactly how it works, who is eligible, and how our AFK program prepares you for the exam that unlocks it.
Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada
The Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry runs a pilot program called Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada (BTDPC) for internationally trained dentists. It is delivered at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Dalhousie University in Halifax, and Université Laval in Québec City (taught in French). The Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada has given it Preliminary Accreditation Status at all three sites.
No NDECC for completersFor the 2026-27 cohort and later, trainees who complete the program are no longer required to write the NDECC.
Straight to the Virtual OSCEGraduates are eligible to move directly to the Virtual OSCE with the NDEB, and then apply for licensure.
Two-year pilot, one intake a yearThe program is being tested at three sites, with up to 10 students at each. Seats are awarded competitively.
The eligibility checklist
Tap each item as you confirm it. Requirements are taken from the program’s own admission page.
Which Canadian route fits you?
Tap the line that sounds most like you. Only that answer opens.
I am a citizen or permanent resident
The bridge program is open to you
Pass the AFK and ACJ, then apply to the BTDPC. The AFK is the first gate, so build your preparation around it. Our AFK program is below.
I am not a permanent resident yet
Start the NDEB Equivalency Process now
The Equivalency Process (application, AFK, ACJ, then the NDECC) has no citizenship or permanent residency requirement, so you can start today. If you become a permanent resident along the way, the bridge program may open up for you. The AFK is your first exam either way.
I want to keep the United States route open too
Take the INBDE and AFK together
Many students want both doors open: the Canadian pathway through the AFK, and the United States pathway through the INBDE. The combo is one program that covers both for $549 for six months. Read how a busy schedule can fit it.
I am confident about my basics and want to move fast
Choose Advanced Beginner
You receive all the teachings of the Beginner course at a faster pace and on a faster schedule. The only difference is speed. See how to choose your level.
The two ways to reach the Virtual OSCE
Both start with the same first steps.
The standard route, fee by fee
NDEB fees as last reviewed in October 2026, in Canadian dollars. Confirm current amounts on the NDEB website. The official bridge program pages do not publish tuition.
The AFK is your first gate. Here is how we prepare you for it.
Our AFK Premium Boards program uses the same three-stage path as our INBDE program, with a stronger focus on clinical application. Among students who complete the AFK course, 99% pass on the first attempt.
Beginner or Advanced Beginner
Same teaching at both levels. Beginner gives you more time and longer deadlines. Advanced Beginner gives you everything at a faster pace, for students really confident about their basics. If you are already in the program, you are good: choose your level inside your account. If not, enroll here.
6 months $499, or 12 months $899More time to accomplish each stage.
See every section in the AFK blueprint, or read our full guide to becoming a dentist in Canada. We coach the AFK. For the ACJ and the NDECC, search online for preparation options.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be a permanent resident?
How long do my AFK and ACJ results count?
When is the next intake?
Is it permanent?
Does the AFK guarantee apply to every plan?
Ready to plan your Canadian route?
Message our Admin Team with Dr. T and Dr. Kaur on WhatsApp and we will help you choose your level and your plan.
Bridge program details are from the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry’s Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada pages (acfd.ca), last reviewed October 2026. NDEB fees are in Canadian dollars and should be confirmed on the NDEB website. Course structure and guarantee terms are from The Study Boards’ AFK Premium Boards program.