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Crack the AFK with Confidence: 7 Strategic Tips for International Dentists

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Crack the AFK with Confidence: 7 Strategic Tips for International Dentists

Hello, future Canadian dentists! 👋
I’m Dr. Sehar, and if you’re an international dental graduate preparing for the AFK exam, you’re not alone. I’ve worked closely with hundreds of dentists just like you—brilliant, capable professionals who simply need structured guidance to shine on this challenging exam.

The AFK can feel intimidating at first, but with the right approach, resources, and mindset, it becomes entirely manageable. In this guide, I’m sharing 7 powerful tips that I’ve developed through years of experience coaching AFK candidates one-on-one.

Let’s get you exam-ready—with confidence and clarity.

  1. Understand the Structure of the AFK Exam

Before diving into prep, take time to understand what the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge really tests. It’s a 200-question multiple-choice exam conducted in two sessions. Topics range from oral pathology to pharmacology, ethics, radiology, and more.

But here’s the key: the AFK doesn’t just assess what you memorize—it measures how you apply that knowledge in clinical and diagnostic contexts. Think like a clinician, not a textbook.

  1. Acknowledge the Challenges—Then Strategize Around Them

Most international dentists face three common hurdles:

  • Different academic foundations: You might not have studied some topics in as much depth as the AFK demands.

  • Terminology gaps: Canadian dental terms and treatment protocols may be unfamiliar.

  • Time constraints: Many of you are juggling jobs, family, or relocating.

Here’s the good news—you don’t need to fix everything overnight. Instead, we build a plan around your lifestyle and learning needs, and that’s exactly what I help students do in our one-on-one coaching sessions.

  1. Customize Your Study Schedule (Not Copy-Paste From Others)

One-size-fits-all study plans? Not effective.

Some students are revising after a 5-year dental break, others just graduated. Some can study 6 hours a day, others barely 2. That’s why I create custom timelines for each of my students, based on their current level and exam date.

A smart schedule should:

  • Cover all NDEB-referenced topics

  • Prioritize high-yield subjects like pharmacology and pathology

  • Include weekly self-checks and mock exam days

Need help building your plan? Book a free 30-minute orientation call with me—we’ll walk through it together.

  1. Make the NDEB Reference Texts Work For You

I see students get overwhelmed by the NDEB’s long list of textbooks. Don’t worry—you don’t need to memorize every chapter.

I recommend focusing on:

  • Neville’s Oral Pathology

  • Carranza’s Periodontology

  • Rosenstiel’s Prosthodontics

  • Lippincott’s Pharmacology

Instead of reading passively, we use clinical scenarios and visual flowcharts to make the material stick. You’ll learn how to recognize key patterns, not just facts.

  1. Practice Real AFK-Style Questions—Not Just MCQs

A mistake many candidates make? Doing random MCQs that aren’t actually AFK-style.

The real exam often presents:

  • Case-based clinical questions

  • Ethics-based scenarios

  • Data interpretation from short research passages

That’s why in our coaching sessions, I provide custom question banks and teach you exactly how to dissect each question type. You’ll not only answer better—you’ll answer faster.

  1. Don’t Study in Isolation—You’ll Burn Out

Trust me, I’ve seen it happen too many times. Students lock themselves in with books and lose motivation halfway through.

Join a community or guided program. In our one-on-one sessions, you don’t just get access to my coaching—you get:

  • A structured plan

  • Mock tests with feedback

  • Weekly calls to track progress

  • Encouragement when you’re doubting yourself

You’ll never feel like you’re “doing it wrong”—because we’ll adjust the plan together, week by week.

  1. Track Progress and Celebrate Small Wins

We don’t just aim for the finish line. In my sessions, I encourage students to:

  • Set weekly goals

  • Keep an “error log” of tricky concepts

  • Celebrate every topic completed

Confidence builds from consistency. And I’ll be there, week after week, helping you push through plateaus and reminding you: You’ve got this.

Bonus: Book Your Free 30-Minute AFK Orientation Call

Still feeling unsure about where to start?

Let’s talk. I offer a free 30-minute orientation session for all prospective students. During our call, I’ll:

  • Review your current preparation

  • Help map out a study timeline

  • Answer your questions—no strings attached

Many students tell me it’s the most clarity they’ve had in months.

Go to Dentabest.com to book your free 30 minutes orientation session!

FAQs: Real Questions from My Students

Q: How long should I prepare for the AFK exam?

Most students need 3–4 months of consistent study, but it varies. I’ll help you create a plan that fits your availability.

Q: I’m not confident in pharmacology—can I still pass?

Yes, we tackle weak areas early with targeted mini-lessons and case-based examples. Confidence comes with the right approach.

Q: What if I’ve already failed the AFK once?

That’s okay. I’ve helped many repeat candidates not only pass but score higher than they ever imagined.

Q: Are your sessions recorded or live?

All sessions with me are live and one-on-one, so you get personalized attention. I adjust the pace based on your needs.

Final Words from Dr. Sehar

Cracking the AFK doesn’t require you to be the “perfect” student. It requires clarity, consistency, and a coach who believes in you.

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start progressing, I’d love to be part of your journey. Let’s build your confidence—and your future—together.

With all my support,
Dr. Sehar