Advanced Dental

Admission Test (ADAT)

2025 Candidate Guide

©2025 American Dental Association. All rights reserved. | 800.232.1694 | ADA.org/ADAT

 The Department of Testing Services (DTS) is a shared service of the American Dental Association (ADA) that
employs testing professionals and provides professional examination services in all relevant areas (e.g., test
design, content development, administration, analysis, and reporting). At the direction of the governing bodies
it supports, DTS advises on policy based on testing industry best practices and professional experience, and
implements policy for the orderly, secure, and fair administration of examination programs within its charge.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You are required to read this Guide before you apply to take the examination.

At the time of application, you will be required to confirm that you have read this Guide, understood its contents, and agree to
the policies and procedures contained herein.

Changes to the Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT) Program may occur after publication of this Guide. Updated PDFs will be posted
to ADA.org/ADAT. You will be subject to the policies and procedures currently in effect at the time of your test administration.
 Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)
2025 Candidate Guide

Table of Contents
OVERVIEW .............................................................2 Identification Policy .......................................... 19

About this Guide and Examination Program ......2 Reschedule or Cancel

a Testing Appointment ..................................... 20
Purpose of the Examination ...............................2
No-Show Policy ............................................... 20
Examination Fairness .........................................2
Emergencies on the Day
Ethical Conduct ..................................................3
of the Testing Appointment .............................. 21
EXAMINATION CONTENT AND
Testing Problems on the Day
PREPARATION MATERIALS ................................4
of the Testing Appointment .............................. 21
Examination Specifications ................................4
Testing Accommodations ................................ 22
Dental Charts ......................................................6
Acceptable Forms
Patient Box .........................................................7 of Documentation............................................. 24

Acronyms and Abbreviations ..............................7 Unacceptable Forms

of Documentation............................................. 24
Confidentiality of Examination Materials ............7
EXAMINATION REGULATIONS
Examination Preparation ....................................8 AND RULES OF CONDUCT ................................ 25
Practice Test .......................................................8 Rules of Conduct ............................................. 25
RESULTS INFORMATION .....................................9 Privacy and Security ........................................ 26
Scoring of Examination ......................................9 Examination Misconduct .................................. 28
Results Audits .....................................................9 Irregularities and Appeals ................................ 30
Results Reports ................................................10 Arbitration Requirement ................................... 32
ADEA PASS .....................................................11 Agreement to Arbitrate .................................... 32
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS ............................12

EXAMINATION INFORMATION ...........................14

Examination Fees .............................................14

Partial Fee Waiver ............................................15

Administration Schedule ..................................16

Retesting Policy ................................................17

Partial Testing...................................................17

Application Procedures ....................................18

Test Center Procedures ...................................19

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 1
 OVERVIEW
ABOUT THIS GUIDE AND EXAMINATION PROGRAM

This document is the official candidate guide (“Guide”) to policies and procedures for the Advanced Dental
Admission Test (“ADAT”). It provides information such as application and testing procedures, examination
content, the consequences of rules violations, and scoring. The governing body of the ADAT is the American
Dental Association’s (“ADA”) Council on Dental Education and Licensure (“CDEL” or “Governing Body”). The
ADAT is implemented by the Department of Testing Services (“DTS”), which is a shared service of the ADA.
Examinations are administered by Pearson VUE (“Pearson VUE” or “Administration Vendor”). Collectively, the
Governing Body, DTS, and the set of activities, policies, and procedures occurring in support of this examination
are referred to as the “ADAT Program” or simply the “Examination Program.”

The ADAT Program uses arbitration to resolve legal differences relating to the ADAT. Arbitration is described
more fully in the section on Arbitration Requirement and Agreement to Arbitrate in this Guide. Agreement to
arbitrate is a prerequisite to taking the ADAT.

The Council on Dental Education and Licensure (CDEL) would like to thank you for considering this examination.
CDEL appreciates the time and energy you are devoting to preparation. The agency takes its responsibilities
seriously, and works diligently to help ensure examinations provide valid, reliable, and fair evaluations of
candidate knowledge, skills, and abilities.

PURPOSE OF THE EXAMINATION

The ADAT is an admission test designed to provide advanced dental education programs with a means to assess
a candidate’s potential for success in these programs. Programs use the ADAT in conjunction with other
admission tools that provide insight into candidate qualifications as they relate to core program requirements.

Test results are just one factor considered in evaluating candidate potential. Validity studies show that test scores
in conjunction with academic performance are useful and effective in predicting success in dental education
programs. The relative importance of each factor in the admission process is determined by each educational
program.

EXAMINATION FAIRNESS

Fairness, diversity, and inclusion are values that are of critical importance to society and to health professions.
The Governing Body and DTS have devoted and continue to devote substantial time and energy to these
considerations, to comprehensively consider the relevant issues and implement examination programs that are
fair, valid, and reliable, providing candidates with the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and
abilities in support of accurate and valid skill measurement. Fairness efforts are rooted in professional standards
as promulgated in the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing 1. This document — published by the
American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, and National Council on
Measurement in Education — provides professional guidance on all aspects of testing, and specifically notes that
fairness is fundamental to validity.

Fairness considerations are embedded throughout this Examination Program, affecting every aspect of how this
examination is constructed, administered, scored, and reported, appropriately recognizing the critical importance

1American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, National Council on Measurement in Education. (2014).
Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Washington, DC: Author.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 2
 of fairness to society, and reflecting the core values of those who work closely and care deeply about this
program.

For additional information concerning how fairness considerations have been incorporated into this Examination
Program, please see the document entitled “The DAT and ADAT Programs: Overview of Policies and Procedures
Supporting and Promoting Fairness” on the Examination Program website.

ETHICAL CONDUCT

Healthcare professionals play an important role in society by providing services that contribute to the overall
health and well-being of individuals and their communities. In light of this responsibility, such professionals must
behave ethically at all times. This obligation begins at the time of application to school and continues through the
educational process, the licensure process, and the entirety of professional practice. Members of the dental
profession voluntarily abide by the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct in the interest of
protecting patients and maintaining the trust of society. The ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional
Conduct is found at ADA.org/ethics.

Candidates are expected to abide by these ethical standards and to read, understand, and comply with the
examination regulations and rules of conduct for this examination. The obligation to abide by these ethical
standards includes a commitment to honesty, truthfulness, full disclosure, accuracy, fairness, and integrity in all
matters pertaining to examinations completed now and in the future (examination applications, examination
procedures, applications for licensure, etc.).

Misconduct in the examination process is a very serious matter. Violation of the rules of conduct or examination
regulations may result in civil liability, voiding of examination results, retest penalties, or other appropriate
penalties.

The Examination Program Governing Body, licensure boards, and the profession expect strong ethical behavior
from all candidates. The Governing Body annually publishes policies and procedures applicable to misconduct
and irregularities in the application and examination process. This information is available in later sections of this
document. The Governing Body expects all candidates to carefully read and understand this information and their
obligations as candidates for this examination.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 3
 EXAMINATION CONTENT AND PREPARATION MATERIALS
EXAMINATION SPECIFICATIONS

The ADAT is composed of multiple-choice test questions (items) presented in the English language. Both the U.S.
customary system (imperial system) and the metric system (international system) of measurement are used. The
ADAT consists of the following three sections: Biomedical Sciences; Clinical Sciences; and Data, Research
Interpretation, and Evidence-Based Dentistry. The following provides a more detailed topic outline and the
number of items allocated to each major area.

Biomedical Sciences (80 Items)

Anatomic Sciences (20 items)

• Gross Anatomy
• Histology
• Oral Histology
• Developmental Biology

Biochemistry and Physiology (20 items)

• Biological Compounds
• Metabolism
• Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Connective Tissue
• Membranes
• Nervous System
• Muscle
• Circulation
• Respiration
• Renal
• Oral Physiology
• Digestion
• Endocrines

Microbiology and Pathology (20 items)

• General Microbiology
• Reactions of Tissue to Injury
• Immunology and Immunopathology
• Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology of Specific Infectious Diseases
• Systemic Pathology
• Growth Disturbances

Dental Anatomy and Occlusion (20 items)

• Tooth Morphology
• Pulp Cavity Morphology
• Calcification and Eruption
• Principles of Occlusion and Function
• Clinical Considerations — Tooth Morphology and Anomalies

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 4
 Clinical Sciences (80 Stand-Alone and Case-Based Items)

• Endodontics
• Operative Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Pain Control
• Oral Diagnosis
• Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry
• Periodontics
• Pharmacology
• Prosthodontics
• Principles of Ethics
• Patient Management

Data, Research Interpretation, and Evidence-Based Dentistry (40 Items)

• Study Design
• Data Analysis
• Result Interpretation
• Inference and Implication

The Data, Research Interpretation, and Evidence-Based Dentistry section of the ADAT focuses on concepts
taught within the framework of evidence-based dentistry, including the knowledge of how to critically and
systematically review research findings, understand basic methodological issues, and how to use this information
to apply research findings in decision-making practice and specific patients.

With respect to evidence-based dentistry, the ADAT Program has focused on the following core concepts:

• Asking precise, structured clinical questions.

• Finding the best evidence using currently available electronic resources.
• Reading and critically evaluating research information.
• Understanding clinical trial design (e.g., therapy, diagnosis, qualitative assessment).
• Understanding and interpreting basic statistical information (e.g., descriptive statistics, odds ratios,
risk reduction, relative risk) to implement evidence-based dentistry appropriately in practice settings.
• Using evidence-based clinical guidelines, recommendations, and systematic reviews.
• Implementing best evidence in clinical practice.

Corresponding items are written to assess a candidate’s ability to:

• Compare findings from two studies and determine which study is stronger from a methodological
perspective.
• Compare study findings and determine which is the most relevant to a current situation faced by the
clinician.
• Interpret study findings accurately, even if the original study authors made interpretational errors or
might have been motivated to promote a particular intervention and outcome.

Some questions in this section involve interpreting a summarized research study. Candidates are expected to
carefully examine information appearing in a “Research Box” to answer the corresponding questions correctly.

All examination questions are reviewed annually by a team of subject matter experts before they are used for
examination purposes. This process helps to ensure that the questions reflect the most recent research and
guidelines. For information about how and when newly emerging guidelines are incorporated into the

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 examination, candidates should review the document entitled Recent and Forthcoming Updates to Examinations
posted at ADA.org/education/testing.

DENTAL CHARTS

Some cases in this test involve dental charts. Below is a sample of the types of dental charts used within the test.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 6
 PATIENT BOX

Some questions in this examination involve a patient box. The patient box presents information available to the
dentist and dental hygienist at the time of the visit. If no information is presented in a given area of the patient box,
assume the information is either unknown or is not available. For example, if no allergies are listed, assume the
patient has no known allergies at the time of their visit. Always consider information presented in the patient box
when answering questions and pay close attention to all provided patient information.

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Commonly used acronyms and abbreviations may appear on the examinations. Please refer to the Acronyms and
Abbreviations reference document posted on the ADAT website, ADA.org/ADAT, to review a list of acronyms and
abbreviations that might appear on the examination.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF EXAMINATION MATERIALS

Examination items represent confidential, copyrighted intellectual property. Obtaining, using, or distributing
examination questions, also referred to as examination items, is strictly prohibited, regardless of the method
employed (memorization, recording, copying, or other means). This prohibition includes the discussion,
distribution, or online posting of memorized examination questions or answers, in whole or in part.

The use or sharing of examination items violates the examination regulations and rules of conduct of this testing
program. Such activities could provide an unfair advantage and threaten the validity and credibility of the
examination. Since all examinations are copyrighted property, these prohibited activities also violate federal
copyright laws.

The Department of Testing Services investigates all reports of candidates’ alleged production, misuse, or
sharing of current examination materials, and will pursue formal action against anyone who violates the
Examination Regulations or federal copyright law. Violations could result in the voiding of examination
results, legal action, or other appropriate penalties.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 7
 EXAMINATION PREPARATION

A number of resources are used by subject matter experts to create questions for the ADAT. These resources
include the following reference texts:

• ADAT Reference Texts

• ADAT Practice Test

The ADAT program does not endorse any specific test preparation courses and has no data on the content or
efficacy of test preparation courses designed to prepare candidates for the ADAT.

PRACTICE TEST

Candidates interested in preparing for the ADAT may utilize practice questions available on ADA.org/ADAT. All
practice questions are copyrighted.

The intent of practice questions is to help candidates understand the types of questions that will be asked on the
examination. The practice questions are not intended to provide an indication of how candidates will perform on
the ADAT. Candidates are cautioned not to limit preparation for the examination to the review of practice
questions.

An interactive tutorial is also available to download from the Pearson VUE Website. The ADAT tutorial provides
information to successfully navigate through the questions and case materials in the examination. The tutorial is
also provided at Pearson VUE test centers prior to taking the examination.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 8
 RESULTS INFORMATION
SCORING OF EXAMINATION

ADAT results are reported as scale scores. These scale scores are neither raw scores (i.e., the number of
questions answered correctly) nor percentiles. The calculation of scale scores is accomplished using
sophisticated psychometric equating procedures to accurately and fairly evaluate candidate skills. Through scale
scores, it is possible to meaningfully compare the performance of candidates who have completed this
examination, even if candidates have completed examination forms containing different examination questions.
Candidates are not penalized for guessing.

Some questions on the test are experimental and are not scored. Data collected on unscored questions is used to
determine whether those questions pass psychometric standards and would be appropriate for use in future test
administrations. Unscored questions look the same to candidates as scored questions.

ADAT scores range from 200 to 800 and are reported in 10-point increments. Each educational program makes
its own determination as to what constitutes an acceptable score. As such, there is not an official passing score
for this examination.

Candidates often ask whether they have achieved a good score. To interpret the results of your examination, the
Examination Program recommends consulting the most recent examination norms, which provide information on
candidate’s percentile standing on the examination. This information is available in the following report, which is
publicly available on the Examination Program website:

Using the ADAT for Admission Purposes: A Guide for Advanced Dental Education Programs

The above report is also available to educational programs as they interpret and use candidate test results for
admission purposes.

RESULTS AUDITS

As a routine part of quality assurance procedures, results are audited for accuracy before they are distributed.
Candidates can also request to have their examination results audited or checked for accuracy an additional time,
beyond that indicated above. To request this second audit, login to your account and follow the audit request
instructions. Additional fees will apply (see the Examination Fees section of this Guide). Results audits require
approximately four to six weeks to complete and must be requested within 30 days of the reporting date indicated
on the official report of results.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 9
 RESULTS REPORTS

After a candidate has taken any part of the ADAT, their scores cannot be voided. Falsification of score
reports or misrepresentation of a score report could result in extensive penalties, including cancellation
of the candidate’s scores, the imposition of a mandatory wait period before the candidate can retest, or
the possibility of a lifetime ban from the ADAT Program and other testing programs implemented by DTS.

ADAT results are reported electronically within three to four weeks of a candidate’s test date. Results are posted
to the candidate’s DENTPIN account and sent to the advanced dental education programs selected on the
candidate’s ADAT application, or through additional ADAT score report requests. By making these selections, the
candidate grants the ADAT Program permission to release their results to these entities. Candidates can review
the selected programs by logging into their DENTPIN account.

Candidates who request that their results be shared with an advanced dental education program will also have
their results shared with the ADA’s Postdoctoral Application Support Service (ADEA PASS). At least one
advanced dental education program must be selected as a results recipient in order for scores to be sent to ADEA
PASS.

If a candidate chooses to retest, a complete history of testing attempts will be reported. Candidates who are
current students of a CODA-accredited dental school at the time of application can request a report be sent to
their dental school; there will be no additional charge if the request is made at the time of application.

The ADAT application includes a list of potential results recipients. Once a candidate submits an ADAT
application, the list of designated recipients is considered final. The list cannot be edited or cancelled
after it has been submitted. If an application has no advanced dental education programs selected, the
candidate has not granted permission to release their results.

Reports sent to programs selected at the time of application are included in the ADAT fee, regardless of
the number of programs selected. After the application has been submitted, additional score report
requests may be submitted by signing into the DENTPIN account (ADA.org/DENTPIN) and going to the
‘Requests’ tab. Additional fees apply when sending reports to programs or other recipients not selected
at the time of application.

Fees for additional requests are nonrefundable and nontransferable. DTS suggests candidates send official
scores to each advanced dental education program they are considering applying to, even if the candidate has
not yet completed applications to these programs.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 10
 The American Dental Education Association Postdoctoral Application Support Service (ADEA PASS)

A candidate’s ADAT scores will be imported into their ADEA PASS application if the candidate has indicated that
their scores should be sent to an advanced dental education program, and if the candidate’s DENTPIN and date
of birth have been correctly entered in the ADEA PASS application.

DTS will release official ADAT results to ADEA PASS within three to four weeks of a candidate’s test date. ADEA
PASS will import these results into the candidate’s application within one week of receipt. Once official ADAT
results are received by ADEA PASS and matched to a candidate’s records using the candidate’s DENTPIN, they
will be posted to the ADEA PASS application. Candidates can submit their ADEA PASS application before their
official ADAT results are received.

Candidates can check their ADEA PASS application to confirm scores have been received by logging into the
ADEA PASS portal and selecting “Status.” This area will also include information concerning confirmation of
receipt for evaluations, dental school transcripts, and payments.

If candidates believe their scores should have been posted but ADEA PASS indicates they have not been
received, candidates should confirm that their results were sent. If it has been more than three days since the
results were sent, candidates should contact ADEA Customer Service via the contact information listed at
ADEA.org/passapp/applicants. Please note that ADEA PASS Customer Service will not release detailed score
information. ADEA PASS customer service will only confirm if scores have been received.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 11
 ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
The ADAT Program does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, disability,
sexual orientation, or marital status.

To participate in the ADAT, a candidate must qualify through one of the following provisions:

Dental Student in a CODA or CDAC (Canada) Accredited Dental School

A student in a dental education program accredited by CODA is eligible for examination when the dean of the
dental school (or designee) confirms the student is in good standing and is in the process of actively applying for
advanced dental education programs. The approval of the application by the dean (or designee) meets this
requirement. Visit the CODA website for a listing of accredited dental programs.

Dental Student in a Non-Accredited Dental School

A dental student attending a nonaccredited dental school can also be eligible for examination. If the dental school
is not CODA accredited, the student must submit a Certification of Eligibility Form completed by his or her school.
The completed form must include the seal of the university and the signature of the dean or registrar.

The student must also request that an Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) report be sent directly to the
ADAT Program as detailed in the section below, entitled “Dentist (Graduate of a Nonaccredited Dental Program).”

Dentist Graduated from a CODA or CDAC (Canada) Accredited Dental School

A dentist who is an active, life, or retired member of the ADA at the time of application is eligible for examination
without further documentation.

An affiliate ADA member or a nonmember must submit verification that he or she is a dentist. Proof of graduation,
such as an image of a diploma, is acceptable.

Dentist (Graduate of a Nonaccredited Dental Program)

The following provisions are required for the verification of educational credentials obtained from nonaccredited
dental schools (i.e., schools not accredited by CODA or the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada
[CDAC]). Candidates must have official dental school transcripts verified by Educational Credential Evaluators,
Inc. (ECE).

If a candidate does not have a DENTPIN, they must register for one through the DENTPIN homepage prior to
submitting an ECE report. The ADAT Program will discard ECE reports that cannot be matched to a DENTPIN
using candidate supplied name and date of birth. ECE prepares evaluation reports that identify U.S. equivalents
of educational qualifications earned in other countries.

The following provides contact information for the ECE, followed by necessary steps and relevant considerations:

Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.

P.O. Box 514070,

Milwaukee, WI 53202-3470

414.289.3400 or ECE.org

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 12
 1. Contact Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc. (ECE) and request a General Report. The ECE
evaluation report request will describe what documents are required, the manner in which to submit them
to ECE, and the applicable fee. To request an evaluation report, visit ECE.org, select “Start Your
Evaluation Request”, and request a general evaluation report be sent to the ADAT Program.
2. Only official reports electronically transmitted from ECE Inc. to the ADAT Program will be accepted.
Personal reports will not be accepted. The ADAT Program will not process the examination application
before the ECE Evaluation Report is received.
3. The name on the ECE report must match the name on your application exactly. Any name changes must
be accompanied by legal documentation.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 13
 EXAMINATION INFORMATION
EXAMINATION FEES

Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. All fees are in US dollars. The following indicates 2025 testing
fees:

FEE TYPE DESCRIPTION FEE AMOUNT

Examination Fee This fee includes administration and official score reporting to schools $450
and programs selected at the time of application

Score Report Fee This fee covers score report requests made after the time of $50 per report
(optional) application. There is no additional charge for score report requests
received at the time of application.

Fee for Candidates Candidates who are students or graduates of dental schools not $435
from Non-Accredited accredited by CODA must pay this processing fee.
Dental Schools

Score Audit Fee For a period of 30 days after a testing appointment, as an optional $65
(optional) service, the Program is willing to audit a candidate’s results.

Rescheduling Fee Candidates can reschedule their testing appointment for a fee if notice $25
is received at least one full business day (24 hours) before the
appointment and within the authorized eligibility period. Sales tax may
apply to cancellation and rescheduling fees.

Please note:

Candidates are encouraged to consider their test administration date carefully, as any last-minute requested
changes (e.g., for medical reasons, personal reasons, or due to a missed testing appointment) may not be
approved.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 14
 PARTIAL FEE WAIVER

In cases of severe financial hardship, a limited number of partial fee waivers per calendar year (January-
December) to candidates. The waiver covers 50% of the exam fee, which includes the fee for the test and any
official score reports requested at the time of application. The waiver does not apply to any charges associated
with rescheduling or score reporting after the time of initial application.

Fee waivers are granted on a first-come, first-served basis at the beginning of each calendar year to
eligible candidates who have submitted the required documents. Fee waivers will be granted beginning
on January 1. Candidates who have previously received a fee waiver or who have already taken the
examination are not eligible.

The Examination Program will review all fee waiver requests and make final decisions regarding fee waivers.
Candidates must register for a DENTPIN prior to submitting a fee waiver request.

Candidates may qualify for a partial fee waiver if the following requirements are met:

• Demonstrated financial hardship.

• First time taking the examination.
• Has not previously received a partial fee waiver.
• U.S. citizen or foreign national who meets either the “green card” or “substantial presence” test as
described in IRS Publication 519.
• Received financial aid at their educational institution.

Instructions for Requesting a Partial Fee Waiver

Candidates can request a partial fee waiver by signing into their DENTPIN account, selecting ‘Submit Request’
and then ‘Waiver Request.’ They will then be prompted to select the Examination Program for which a partial fee
waiver is being requested.

The ADAT Program will review all partial fee waiver requests and make the final approval or denial decision. After
the partial fee waiver request is reviewed, candidates will receive an email notification of the Examination
Program’s decision and instructions for submitting an ADAT application online. Please allow up to 10 business
days for review of all partial fee waiver requests.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 15
 ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE

The ADAT is available for administration during a fixed period of time each calendar year. The table below
presents the ADAT testing window and administration schedule.

Candidates must report to the testing center at least 30 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment. The total
administration time is four hours and 30 minutes, including the tutorial, optional breaks, and survey.

ADAT ADMINISTRATION WINDOW

March 1, 2025, through August 31, 2025

ADAT ADMINISTRATION SCHEDULE

Tutorial 15 minutes

Biomedical Sciences (80 items) 95 minutes

Break (optional) 10 minutes

Clinical Sciences (80 items) 90 minutes

Break (optional) 10 minutes

Data, Research Interpretation, and Evidence-Based Dentistry (40 items) 45 minutes

Post Test Survey (optional) 5 minutes

Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes

Once a candidate begins their testing session, test items will be presented one at a time on their computer
screens. In some cases, candidates may experience a lag between items during testing, while a given item is
loaded onto the computer screen. It is important to note that the test timer is designed to pause while items are
loading on the screen. Any time that passes while items load will NOT count against the total test time.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 16
 RETESTING POLICY

Candidates are required to submit a new application and fee for each testing attempt. A testing attempt is defined
as any test administration where the candidate has been seated at a computer at a test center and electronically
agreed to the confidentiality statement to start the test.

Candidates who apply to retest must wait at least 45 days between testing attempts and are limited to two testing
attempts per testing window.

Candidates who have taken the ADAT two or more times previously will be limited to one testing attempt per
testing window and will need to submit evidence that they have actively applied to advanced dental educations
programs within the previous 18 months.

Acceptable forms of evidence include the following (candidates need to submit only one):

• Copy of a completed and submitted ADEA PASS application.

• Letter of rejection from an advanced dental education program.
• Letter on letterhead from an advanced dental education program encouraging a retest.
• Letter on letterhead from a college or university advisor or instructor indicating the candidate is applying
to advanced dental education programs.

The preceding retest policies are not subject to appeal.

PARTIAL TESTING

Partial testing is not permitted. Candidates are required to take all three sections of the ADAT. The lowest
possible score (a score of 200) is reported for any assigned test not taken. Individuals unable to complete the
ADAT must submit a new application and fee in order to retest.

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 APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Before applying to take this examination, candidates must obtain a Dental Personal Identification Number
(DENTPIN). Candidates can register for a new DENTPIN or retrieve an existing DENTPIN at ADA.org/DENTPIN.

DENTPIN is a unique personal identifier used by U.S. dental and dental hygiene education systems and
standardized testing programs, such as the Dental Admission Test (DAT), Advanced Dental Admission Test
(ADAT), and the Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) — as well as application services such as the
American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Postdoctoral Application Support Service (ADEA PASS), the
ADEA Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (ADEA AADSAS), the Texas Medical & Dental
Schools Application Service (TMDSAS), the ADEA Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for
International Dentists (ADEA CAAPID), and the ADEA Dental Hygiene Centralized Application Service (ADEA
DHCAS). In each case, DENTPIN is used to uniquely identify individuals, and for the confidential and secure
reporting, transmission, and tracking of test scores and academic data.

Once a DENTPIN is obtained, candidates can submit an application through the ADAT Program website. A new
application must be submitted before each testing attempt. Application processing takes place Monday through
Friday during standard US business hours.

The successful processing of a paid application enables candidates to attempt the examination once, within the
testing window available at the time of application. Other considerations — including retest rules and
program requirements— may reduce the eligibility period to a shorter timeframe. If a testing appointment
is not scheduled or the test is not completed during the testing window, a new application and fee must be
submitted in order to take the examination. Candidates are encouraged to consider their choice of testing
appointment date carefully, as any last-minute requested changes (e.g., for medical reasons, personal reasons,
or due to a missed testing appointment) may not be approved. Submitting an application to test within a testing
window will require candidates to complete a test during that window to avoid having to submit a new application
and fee to test.

When registering for a DENTPIN and submitting an application, all provided information must be accurate.
Candidates must use their legal name. When including a middle name, candidates must use either their full
middle name or a middle initial.

If the name on a candidate’s application fails to EXACTLY match the name appearing on IDs brought to the
Administration Vendor test center, the candidate will NOT be permitted to test. As a result, the testing
appointment and application fee will be forfeited, and the candidate will be required to submit a new application
and fee before taking the examination.

Changes and corrections to the application (name, birthdate, etc.) must be completed at least two weeks prior to
a scheduled testing appointment. Candidates are responsible for identifying any corrections or omissions and
must notify the testing program separately via email at [email protected].

Updates made to contact information (address, email address, etc.) using the “Update Your DENTPIN” page at
ADA.org/DENTPIN will NOT automatically update existing test applications and score report requests.

During the application and testing process, candidates will be required to provide their name, DENTPIN, address,
date of birth, and other requested information to allow proper identification by the testing program. This
information must be accurate. The falsification of personal information is a serious matter. If it is determined that a
candidate deliberately falsified personal information in the DENTPIN system, examination application, or at the
test center, scores will be voided, and all schools will be notified. Possible repercussions associated with

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 deliberate falsification include a required two-year waiting period before taking the examination again, or a
complete ban from the Examination Program and any other examination program implemented by DTS.

TEST CENTER PROCEDURES

The Administration Vendor will electronically capture the identity of each candidate biometrically (e.g., through
photograph, fingerprint, or palm vein scan) before candidates can proceed with testing. Candidates must consent
to these procedures before they are permitted to test. Electronic capture of biometric data allows for a more
efficient return to testing after breaks. Biometric and other identifying information will be retained by the
Administration Vendor and will be utilized for identity verification at potential future test administrations (e.g.,
retesting).

Administration Vendor staff will visually inspect eyeglasses and hair accessories as part of check-in procedures.
Staff may also use an electronic detection wand to scan for electronic devices. Jewelry, except for wedding and
engagement rings, is prohibited. Updates to security protocols at check-in may change with little to no advance
warning. Candidates can view the current check-in procedures at the Administration Vendor’s website.
Administration Vendor staff will observe candidates at all times during the testing appointment. This observation
includes staff walking through the secure testing room, as well as video recording of the candidate’s examination
session. Administration Vendor staff are required to report behavior that might represent a violation of rules and
regulations.

Administration Vendor staff are not authorized to answer questions from candidates regarding examination
content, examination software, specific examination program policies, and scoring.

IDENTIFICATION POLICY

When you arrive at the Administration Vendor test center to take your examination, two original and current forms
of identification (ID) — one primary and one secondary — will be required. An expired ID WILL NOT be accepted,
even if that ID is accompanied by temporary identification or documentation that a new, valid ID has been
requested.

The primary ID must be a government-issued ID with your photograph, name, and signature. Examples of
acceptable primary IDs include, but are not limited to a driver's license, passport, or passport card. All IDs, with
the exception of passports, must be written in English.

The secondary ID must contain your name and signature. Examples of secondary IDs include, but are not limited
to; debit cards, library cards, or a credit card.

Only physical forms of IDs will be accepted by test center staff. Digital or paper copies of IDs will not be accepted.

WARNING! Information in your DENTPIN record and submitted application (e.g., your name) must match
your IDs exactly or you will be denied admission to testing and forfeit your testing and application fee.

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 RESCHEDULE OR CANCEL A TESTING APPOINTMENT

To reschedule or cancel a testing appointment, candidates must either use the scheduling tools on the
Administration Vendor website or contact the Administration Vendor using the contact information provided on the
Administration Vendor website. This must be done in advance of the testing appointment. Additional fees apply
and must be paid directly to the Administration Vendor (see the “Examination Fees” section of this Guide). Local
test centers where candidates complete their examination cannot schedule, reschedule, or cancel your
appointment. Appointments must be canceled or rescheduled by the business day prior to the scheduled test, and
at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled appointment. Candidates will receive a confirmation notice when
rescheduling their testing appointment; please retain a copy of this notice.

NO-SHOW POLICY

Candidates who do not appear for a scheduled testing appointment and do not cancel or reschedule their
appointment by the required time in advance of the test date will forfeit all testing fees. These candidates will be
required to submit a new application and provide corresponding payment to schedule a new appointment.

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 EMERGENCIES ON THE DAY OF THE TESTING APPOINTMENT

If an emergency occurs on the day of a testing appointment that prevents a candidate from sitting for their
examination, a written request for relief must be submitted to DTS. This request should include applicable
documentation and be sent to [email protected] within five business days of the scheduled appointment.

Examples of emergencies and applicable documentation include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Sudden illness on the examination day. Provide a doctor’s note or hospital records confirming that you
were treated on the day of the examination.
• Death in the family on the examination day. Provide a copy of an obituary, prayer card, funeral service
program, or death certificate confirming that the relative passed away or services were held on the day of
the examination.

Testing appointments affected by emergencies occurring prior to the day of the scheduled appointment should be
handled through the Administration Vendor’s rescheduling and cancellation process indicated previously.

TESTING PROBLEMS ON THE DAY OF THE TESTING APPOINTMENT

If a candidate encounters a problem during their examination, the administration should not be resumed until the
issue has been documented and resolved by the test center administrator. If a candidate continues to have issues
with their testing experience after having requested such assistance, they should again alert test center staff and
request that staff resolve the issue. If the issue persists, the candidate should immediately discontinue testing.
Candidates who continue to test despite the presence of continued, significant issues waive their right to appeal
for a remedy on the basis of those encountered issues. Concerns not resolved at the time of testing must be
submitted in writing within five business days of the testing appointment to [email protected].

Candidates who encounter problems as indicated above must contact [email protected] directly, and
state the specific relief being requested. Upon receipt of directly communicated information, DTS will conduct an
investigation and notify the candidate of the outcome. Candidates with documented, unresolved testing issues
could be offered the courtesy of a retest within 30 days. If the candidate accepts the retest courtesy, the retest will
replace the results of the initial test, and the initial test results will be voided. Candidates who continue to test
despite severe issues — and particularly those who continue to test, wait for their results to be released, and call
DTS afterwards upon receipt of a poor score — are unlikely to obtain the remedy they seek.

Test center incident reports submitted on behalf of the candidate — and comments submitted by the candidate
via post-examination surveys — are considered indirect communication to DTS. These indirect communications
may be considered by DTS as part of its general quality assurance procedures but would not result in specific
relief for the candidate.

Examination results cannot be canceled or adjusted under any circumstances.

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 TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS

The Examination Program provides reasonable and appropriate testing accommodations in accordance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act. These accommodations occur for individuals with documented disabilities or
medical conditions who demonstrate a need for accommodation, request an accommodation prior to testing, and
who are approved by the Examination Program to receive accommodations based on the information submitted.

Testing accommodations are offered to those with a qualified disability or a medical condition in order to offer
equal access to testing. Candidates must request testing accommodations with each application, but — for
subsequent administrations — will not be required to submit additional documentation covering the same
disability or condition.

Information concerning specific accommodations provided will not be shared outside of DTS, the test center, and
the Examination Program, and will not be indicated in examination results.

In considering a request from a candidate with a disability, the Examination Program is guided by a focus on
validity. Testing accommodations are provided so all candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate their
knowledge and skills, as opposed to having the measurement of their knowledge and skills inappropriately reflect
a disability.

To determine whether a candidate qualifies for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or as a
result of a current medical condition, the Examination Program requires a complete evaluation of the candidate as
well as a completed and signed Testing Accommodations Request Form. A health care professional appropriately
qualified to evaluate the disability or medical condition must conduct the evaluation. For more information on
accommodations and an explanation of how to request testing accommodations, please consult the Testing
Accommodations Request area on the Examination Program website (see the section in this Guide entitled
“Application Procedures”).

If you have a documented disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act and require testing
accommodations, you must submit the following three documents prior to testing:

1. A completed test application.

2. The Testing Accommodations Request Form through your DENTPIN account.
3. Documentation to support the testing accommodation request.

You may submit your testing accommodation request in one of the following ways.

Before applying to test

• You may submit your testing accommodation request prior to submitting your examination application.
The Examination Program will review your request, and if approved, the Examination Program will add
the approved testing accommodation to your record after you complete your examination application.
• To submit a testing accommodation request before applying to test, please sign into your DENTPIN
account and click “Submit Request” from the top ribbon menu. From the dropdown menu, select
“Accommodations Request”.
• Complete and submit the Testing Accommodation Request Form. This web page includes a file uploader
that will allow candidates to attach the required supporting documentation.
• Requested testing accommodations should align with the identified functional limitation, so that the
adjustment to the testing procedure is compliant with federal guidelines.

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 OR

While applying to test

• During the application submission process, select “Yes” when asked “Are you requesting testing
accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act?”
• Fill out the Testing Accommodation Request in the examination application, which will appear after the
payment page. This web page will include a file uploader that will allow candidates to attach required
supporting documentation.
• Requested testing accommodations should align with the identified functional limitation, so that any
adjustment to the testing procedure is compliant with federal guidelines.

Candidates can schedule a testing appointment AFTER testing accommodation requests have been
approved. Testing accommodations cannot be added to a previously scheduled testing appointment. If
candidates schedule testing appointments before testing accommodations are approved, candidates will
be required to cancel the appointment and pay a cancellation fee. Candidates requesting
accommodations must receive their eligibility email with approved accommodations before scheduling a
testing appointment. Please email [email protected] with any questions on this process.

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 ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF DOCUMENTATION

A. A copy of a current evaluation report (within the past five years) from the appropriate healthcare
professional. The document must be on an official letterhead, and should include the professional’s
credentials, signature, address, and telephone number. The report must indicate the candidate’s
name, date of birth, and date of evaluation.
The report should include:
o The specific diagnostic procedures or tests administered. Diagnostic methods used should be
appropriate to the disability and in alignment with current professional protocol.
o The results of the diagnostic procedures and/or tests and a comprehensive interpretation of the
results.
o The specific diagnosis of the disability, with an accompanying description of the candidate’s
limitations due to the disability.
o A summary of the complete evaluation with recommendations for the specific accommodations
and how they will reduce the impact of identified functional limitation.
B. Documentation of any previous accommodations provided by educational institutions or other testing
agencies. If no prior accommodations were provided, the licensed professional should include a detailed
explanation as to why no accommodations were given in the past and why accommodations are needed
now.

UNACCEPTABLE FORMS OF DOCUMENTATION

Please do not submit the documents indicated below. They will not be accepted.

• Handwritten letters from healthcare professionals.

• Handwritten patient records or notes from patient charts.
• Diagnoses on prescription pads.
• Self-evaluations
• Research articles
• Original documents (submit copies only).
• Previous correspondence to the Examination Program (DTS maintains copies of all correspondence).

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 EXAMINATION REGULATIONS AND RULES OF CONDUCT
RULES OF CONDUCT

Rules have been established that govern the administration of this examination to ensure results accurately
reflect candidates’ skills. Examination regulations and rules of conduct help preserve the integrity of the
examination process and provide standardized examination administration conditions that yield valid and reliable
results.

The Examination Program bears no responsibility for inaccurate information or inappropriate permissions received
from test center administrators. It is your personal responsibility to understand and comply with the examination
regulations indicated in this Guide. If a candidate’s conduct is determined to violate the terms set forth in this
Guide, the Examination Program will act to strictly enforce its policies and procedures.

Accessing official examination content prior to testing, breaching the confidentiality of examination content, or any
attempt to subvert the examination process represent violations of test regulations. Conduct occurring before,
during, or after testing that violates the examination regulations and rules of conduct could result in invalidation of
examination results and other penalties.

Candidates must be truthful in completing the application and must abide by all instructions regarding examination
conduct. Failure to comply with the examination regulations and rules of conduct could result in a determination of
the presence of an irregularity, and examination results could consequently be voided. If results are voided as a
result of an irregularity, candidates could be prohibited from testing for a specified time period or, in egregious
cases, from retesting at all. Additionally, candidates could face civil or criminal prosecution.

By applying for the examination, candidates agree to abide by the following Rules of Conduct:

1. The candidate certifies that they are registering for this examination for the purpose indicated in the
“Examination Purpose” section of this candidate guide. The examination may not be taken on behalf of
anyone else or for any reason other than for the purpose indicated. Candidates may not take the
examination to practice or to obtain an advance review of the content.

2. Candidates are not allowed to complete an examination for any reason other than that indicated by the
Examination Purpose. If available information suggests a previously eligible candidate might be
completing an examination for other purposes, the [acronym] Program may revoke the candidate’s
eligibility, and the candidate could be required to re-establish eligibility to take the examination.

3. Candidates will not give, receive, or obtain any form of unauthorized assistance prior to the
examination, during the examination (e.g., in the testing room or when on a break), or subsequent to
the examination.

4. Candidates will maintain the confidentiality of examination content at all times. Candidates will not
reproduce or attempt to reproduce examination materials through memorization, recording, copying, or
other means. Candidates will not provide information concerning examination content that might affect
the examination’s ability to accurately assess candidates’ skills, or that might provide unfair advantage
to other candidates. For example, Candidates will neither make use of nor participate in the sharing or
distribution of information regarding examination content or answers (via electronic means or
otherwise).

5. Candidates will not bring any unauthorized materials, as listed in the “Examination Regulations” and
“Rules of Conduct” section of this guide, into the secure testing area. All unauthorized materials must
be placed in an assigned locker and must not be accessed during testing.

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 6. Candidates will not remove information about the exam (written, printed, recorded, or other) from the
test center.

7. Candidates will comply with Administration Vendor test center policies and procedures and will not
create a disturbance in the test center.

8. Candidates will not tamper with the computer testing equipment and facilities.

9. Candidates will cooperate fully with any investigations involving testing irregularities and agree to have
their examination analyzed to detect aberrancies.

10. This is a secure examination protected by U.S. copyright laws. Any unauthorized disclosure of the
examination’s content could result in civil liability, criminal penalties, voiding of examination results, or
other appropriate penalties.

Test content (in whole or in part) is prohibited from being disclosed before, during, or after the test to anyone,
including but not limited to family, friends, classmates, colleagues, or test preparation organizations. This applies
to any content disclosed through discussions, emails, in writing, online (e.g., blogs, social media, websites), or
otherwise.

Candidates who receive unreleased test items should immediately contact DTS at [email protected], and
should NOT review the materials they have received. Candidates who have been found to be in possession of
such information or to have participated in the distribution of this information, may have their examination results
voided. Penalties might be imposed subsequent to discovery and investigation of the original incident, which
could occur years after the incident itself.

Candidates are encouraged to report any activities where information about examination questions is disclosed,
so that DTS can investigate and take any necessary action. Report such activity to DTS at
[email protected].

PRIVACY AND SECURITY

The Examination Program will maintain the privacy and security of candidates’ personal information using industry
standard methods. DTS will collect and retain personal information to serve candidate needs, administer the
examination, fulfill Examination Program responsibilities (e.g., to maintain the integrity of the test and detect and
prevent unlawful activity), and fulfill legal requirements. Examination results shall be retained indefinitely, along
with testing records and candidates’ personal information to the extent consistent with applicable law.

Before the examination is administered, candidates will be required to provide a written release concerning the
collection of their biometric information. Biometrics are collected by the Administration Vendor for purposes of
verifying identity and detecting and preventing unlawful activity. The Administration Vendor is required to store
data securely consistent with applicable law.

As applicable and in accordance with the purpose of each specific Examination Program, examination results will
be released or reported to state boards, education programs, or other entities upon written candidate
authorization or designation by electronic means through the electronic application or score report request form.
Examination results may be released or reported in the absence of such authorization when policies indicate that
such notification is appropriate (e.g., notification of state boards concerning an irregularity). Examination results
may be released to education programs to enable those programs to understand student outcomes. For research
and policymaking purposes, examination results may be released — with personally identifying information
removed — to individuals or entities that the Examination Program deems legitimately interested in its sole
discretion. Information regarding privacy policies is made available to all candidates and the public.

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 The ADA provides technical support for the Examination Program and uses data security procedures to protect
the integrity of personal and exam information. Security safeguards include administrative, technical, and physical
safeguards over data and data processing systems. For information on policies relating to your use of the ADA
website, please refer to the Privacy Notice and Terms of Use available at ADA.org.

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 EXAMINATION MISCONDUCT

The Examination Program strives to report results that accurately reflect the skills and performance of each
candidate. The standards and procedures for administering each examination are intended to provide
candidates with a reasonable opportunity to demonstrate their skills, and to facilitate accurate evaluation of
those skills.

The Examination Program reserves the right to withhold, void, or invalidate any result when, in the Examination
Program’s judgment, it is reasonable to question the validity of the result. Reasons for withholding, voiding or
invalidating results, or imposing other appropriate penalties could include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Unusual answer patterns.

• Atypical score increases from one examination attempt to another.
• Discrepancy in, or falsification of, a candidate’s identification.
• Information indicating that a candidate has engaged in misconduct or a violation of the examination
regulations, rules of conduct, or test center procedures.
• Sharing remembered exam questions or answers. This includes sharing through social media platforms,
online discussion forums, or other means.
• Taking an examination on behalf of another individual or having another individual take an examination
on your behalf.
• Falsification of application information or supporting documents.
• Falsification of a candidate’s results or results report.
• Inconsistent performance on different sections of the exam from one examination attempt to another.
• Improper access to secure exam content.
• Evidence concerning the presence of an examination administration irregularity.
• Any other information indicating the results might not be valid.

When examination results are voided or invalidated, the candidate is notified in writing. This notice includes
information about the decision and the procedure for appeal. Results will remain voided until the appeal process
has been completed, or the time to appeal has expired.

If it is determined a candidate has engaged in irregular behavior, information regarding this determination
becomes a part of the candidate’s record. At its sole discretion, the Examination Program may elect to send a
summary report documenting the incident to legitimately interested parties. This would include all parties to
whom a candidate has instructed results be sent (both currently and in the future).

In situations where an irregularity has occurred, individuals who are involved or implicated with respect to the
occurrence of the irregularity, or who are reasonably believed to have witnessed the irregularity, could be asked
to provide information concerning the irregularity.

The Examination Program reserves the right to pursue other remedies, including prosecution of anyone
whose conduct unlawfully undermines the security of the examination or the integrity of the examination
process.

No personal items are permitted in the secure testing area. Any personal belongings brought to the test center
must be stored in a designated locker; storage is limited. Personal belongings may be inspected. Notes or any
materials accessed during the examination or on an unscheduled break could be confiscated. Accessing
personal belongings or a locker during an unscheduled break violates the examination regulations. Test
administrators are NOT authorized to provide permission to candidates to access personal belongings or lockers
during an unscheduled break.

Items that are prohibited from the secure testing area include, but are not limited to, the following:

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 • Books, notes, study materials, scratch paper, tissues, and markers.
• Personal earplugs and headphones NOT provided by the Administration Vendor.
• Dental instruments, models, or materials.
• Slide rules, paper, calculating devices, rulers, and other measuring devices (except those items approved
in advance under testing accommodations).
• Electronic devices such as cell phones, recording devices, iPods, tablets, and headsets.
• Tote bags, purses, wallets, backpacks, and briefcases.
• Highlighters, pens, erasers, pencils, dictionaries, and translators.
• Food, candy, gum, and beverages (except those items approved in advance under testing
accommodations).
• Outerwear, such as coats, jackets, gloves, or head coverings (religious attire is allowed).
• Good luck charms, statues, religious or spiritual items, and similar objects.
• Watches (digital, analog, or smart) or timing devices (a timer is provided on the computer screen during
the examination).
• Magnifying devices.
• Jewelry (except for wedding and engagement rings).
The test center will provide two note boards (without graph lines) and two low-odor fine tip markers during the
examination. Used note boards will be replaced by test center staff upon request. Scratch paper, pencils, and
markers not furnished by the testing center are prohibited.

Candidates may not write on the note boards before the test begins or during scheduled breaks. The note
boards should not be folded, bent, distorted, or modified in any manner. Markers cannot be used on any surface
other than the note boards. Candidates may not touch the monitor during the examination. All items provided
must be returned to the test administrator before leaving the test center. Test center note boards will not be
stored for multiple day examination use. Any notes taken will be surrendered at the end of each testing day and
erased.

Candidates may not engage in conversation with others during testing or while on an unscheduled break.
Discussing the examination is strictly prohibited.

Test center administrators will report the activity of candidates who take unscheduled breaks.

During an unscheduled break, candidates may NOT access personal belongings or prohibited items,
study or refer to notes or texts, use a phone, eat food or drink a beverage from the candidate’s locker, or
leave the test center. Test administrators are NOT authorized to provide permission to engage in these
activities.

Although the examination is administered under strict supervision and with security measures in place,
examination irregularities can sometimes occur. Examination results could be voided based upon a breach of
examination security, invalid examination conditions, or candidate violations of the examination regulations, rules
of conduct, or test center procedures. If irregularities are detected during an administration, or if evidence of
irregular behavior is disclosed when the examination is scored or afterward, those involved will have their
examination results voided and face appropriate penalties.

Failure to comply with examination regulations, rules of conduct, and test center procedures could
result in a determination of the presence of an irregularity, and examination results could be withheld,
canceled, considered invalid, or another appropriate penalty could be imposed. Candidates might also
be directed to leave the test center before the examination is completed. If results are withheld or
invalidated, or if other penalties are imposed as the result of an irregularity, candidates could be
prohibited from testing and/or other appropriate penalties could be imposed.

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 IRREGULARITIES AND APPEALS

An irregularity is defined as a situation in which there could be a question about the validity of examination
results in accurately reflecting the ability and skills of a candidate.

For example, such questions could be raised when:

• There is communication between candidates during the testing session.

• Unauthorized assistance occurs.
• Candidates have inappropriate access to examination content (e.g., remembered questions or answers
are shared by email, online posting, or other means).
• Conduct prohibited by the examination regulations, rules of conduct, or test center procedures occurs, or
examination administration disruptions are present, including natural disasters and other emergencies.

When an irregularity is identified, results for the candidate(s) involved will be voided pending resolution of the
corresponding appeal(s). If an appeal is denied or no appeal is filed, the results of the candidate(s) involved
could remain voided and/or other appropriate remedies imposed.

Rule violations and/or irregularities occurring in one Examination Program implemented by DTS may result in
penalties that impact a candidate’s ability to test in another Examination Program implemented by DTS.

Candidates whose results are subject to being voided are notified by written correspondence and provided with
a copy of the Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates (see document below). Appeals must be
submitted in writing within 30 days of notification of the irregularity. Appeals must clearly state the
specific relief being requested and include corresponding arguments, evidence, and documentation in
support of the request.

The candidate will be notified of the appeal decision within 60 days after receipt of the appeal.

When considering an appeal, the Examination Program strives to ensure that examination results accurately
reflect candidates’ skills, and that the appealing candidate has an opportunity equal to, but not greater than, the
opportunity provided to other candidates.

Results will be voided when there is a reasonable and good faith basis to do so. If it is determined that voiding
results is not warranted under the circumstances, the results will be released.

Candidates should be aware that irregularities - other than natural disasters and emergencies beyond the control
of the candidate - are considered to be a serious breach of the examination process.

The Examination Program strives to handle irregularities and their investigation in a confidential, professional,
fair, and objective manner.

Candidates should be aware that reports of irregularities may have consequences beyond the voiding of results
or the imposition of other appropriate penalties.

• Information regarding irregularities may be brought to the attention of school authorities, regulatory
agencies, or other entities, by other sources.
• Additional information concerning a candidate may surface within the context of an investigation into an
irregularity.

Candidates are encouraged to report suspicious activity and observations of rules violations to DTS at
[email protected].

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 Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates

The Examination Program recognizes that strict application of Rules and/or Policies for the ADAT may, because
of unusual circumstances, impose an unusual burden on one or more candidates. In these situations, the
Examination Program may consider an appeal.

Requests for an appeal pertaining to test results must be initiated within 30 days of receiving test results or, in the
case of withheld results, within 30 days of receiving written notice that results are being withheld. In the event that
the Examination Program has given notice that previously released results are to be invalidated or voided, the
request for appeal must be submitted within 30 days of that notice. In this case, a request for appeal will stay the
action to invalidate or void the results until such time as the appeal is decided or the time for submitting a request
for appeal has expired. A request for an appeal must be submitted in writing and must include adequate
supporting documentation. The request for an appeal must indicate the specific relief requested.

A request for an appeal will first be screened by the designated Chair of the Governing Body, in consultation with
the Director of Testing Services. At the Chair’s sole discretion, the Chair may 1) grant the appeal, 2) deny the
appeal, or 3) forward the appeal to a designated group within the Governing Body for its consideration. If during
deliberations credible information becomes available indicating an error was made in the decision involving the
candidate’s case, the Chair in consultation with the Director may end the deliberations and grant the appeal. At
the Chair’s discretion, the Chair may delegate the screening of appeals to another member of the Governing
Body.

In rendering a decision with respect to appeals—and particularly in situations where results have been withheld—
the touchstone and foremost consideration is the validity of examination results, in alignment with the purpose of
the examination. The Examination Program strives to be fair and objective in its decision-making process, as it
remains true to its mission. When considering appeals, the Examination Program avoids favoritism and strives to
ensure that all candidates are treated equally and fairly.

If the issue presented in an appeal is likely to recur, the Governing Body may consider a change in its Rules
and/or Policies. The granting of an appeal will be considered a precedent only if a change in Rules and/or Policies
is also adopted. The candidate will be notified of the Governing Body’s decision within 60 days after receipt of the
written request for an appeal.

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 ARBITRATION REQUIREMENT

Arbitration has become an increasingly common way to resolve legal differences. Generally speaking, the
advantages of arbitration over traditional lawsuits are that arbitration is less expensive and issues are resolved in
less time. If a candidate wishes to pursue a dispute that has not been resolved by the appeal process mentioned
above and detailed in the Limited Right of Appeal for Examination Candidates, the candidate must use the
procedure described in the following Agreement to Arbitrate.

AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE
1. In the event that any legal dispute arises between you and the Examination Program, in connection with
your participation in this Examination Program, where that dispute is not resolved by the appeals
process detailed in this Guide and elsewhere, you agree that the exclusive means for resolving the
dispute shall be Binding Arbitration as described by the terms of this Agreement and pursuant to
applicable law. This means that you waive the rights you may have to resolve the dispute in a court of
law, or by any other means that might otherwise be available to you.

2. The American Dental Association (“ADA”) agrees to be similarly bound except that the ADA reserves its
full rights to pursue injunctive and other appropriate relief in any state or federal court in cases of unfair
competition or violations of, or threats to violate, any intellectual property rights of the ADA. With respect
to any action filed by the ADA pursuant to this paragraph 2, you consent to submit to the jurisdiction of
the state or federal court in which the ADA seeks relief.

3. Arbitration proceedings initiated pursuant to this Agreement to Arbitrate shall be conducted in

accordance with the then current Consumer Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association.
The arbitrator’s award shall be binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent
jurisdiction. Information about the American Arbitration Association, its rules, and its forms are available
from the American Arbitration Association website: ADR.org.

4. In the event of Arbitration, and except to the extent the Consumer Arbitration Rules provide otherwise,
the parties shall bear their own costs and attorneys’ fees associated with the Arbitration proceedings,
unless the arbitrator directs one of the parties to pay the other’s costs, or attorneys’ fees, or both.

5. To the fullest extent permitted by law, no Arbitration brought pursuant to this Agreement shall be joined
to any Arbitration involving any other party whether through “Class Arbitration” proceedings or otherwise.

6. This Agreement is part of the application to take this examination. Your assent to be bound by it is a
requirement for taking the examination, but you can only sit for the examination if you also fulfill all other
conditions imposed by the Examination Program.

© 2025 American Dental Association All rights reserved. Updated: 1/27/2025 ADAT 2025 Candidate Guide | 32