The AFK consists of 200 single answer multiple-choice questions, delivered in two parts. You will have two hours to complete each part.
The AFK is offered in two formats, electronic delivery at Prometric test centres and booklet format offered at select exam sites.
The AFK uses single answer multiple-choice type questions. Each question has a value of one. The lowest score for any question is zero.
The purpose of the Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) is to test biomedical science and applied clinical science knowledge. A passing grade is required before a participant can continue to the other examinations in the Equivalency Process.
Examinees will not be able to select the examination format.
| AFK Subject Area | Questions |
|---|---|
| Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Local Anesthesia, Medical Emergencies, Medicine including Physiology | 24 |
| Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Geriatric Dentistry, Special Needs Patient including Oral Embryology, Growth and Development | 10 |
| Periodontics including Microbiology and Immunology | 10 |
| Endodontics | 6 |
| Oral Medicine / Oral Pathology including Histology, Oral Radiology | 17 |
| Evidence-Based Dentistry, Prevention, Infection Control, Ethics & Jurisprudence | 7 |
| Oral Surgery, Trauma, Orofacial Pain, Dental Emergencies including Applied Anatomy | 10 |
| Cariology including Microbiology, Biochemistry, Restorative, Prosthodontics, Implants | — |
The Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK) is the first step of the NDEB Equivalency Process in Canada for Internationally Trained Dentists. Clearing the AFK is essential to continue with the NDEB pathway and eventually become licensed to practice dentistry in Canada.
At DentaBest, we provide complete support to international dental graduates through structured AFK preparation, updated study resources, and personalized mentorship. Learn more on the official NDEB Canada website (ndeb-bned.ca).
What is AFK?
Who needs to take it?
Format, duration & scoring
Impact on dental career
Passing AFK is the gateway to Canadian dental licensure, allowing candidates to continue with ACJ (Assessment of Clinical Judgment) and NDECC to the final step of taking the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam).
Huge syllabus covering clinical sciences and biomedical topics can make AFK preparation challenging without a clear study strategy.
Without a proper plan, candidates can feel overwhelmed and struggle to focus on the most important high-yield areas.
AFK requires not just memorization but application of concepts, which is best achieved with expert guidance and regular mock testing.
Learn systematically with a proven curriculum designed specifically for internationally trained dentists.
Study materials aligned with the latest AFK blueprint and relevant preparation requirements.
Learn strategies directly from expert instructors like Dr Sehar who understand the exam and Canadian dental practice standards.
Comprehensive coverage of all AFK subjects over a structured timeline designed to keep preparation focused and manageable.
Attend live classes with Dr Sehar from anywhere and access pre-recorded videos at your convenience.
Whether you're a first-time test taker or a repeat candidate, we create customized study schedules around your individual needs.
In-depth teaching of AFK concepts with interactive sessions by Dr Sehar.
Review lessons anytime to strengthen your understanding and reinforce important concepts.
Regular live doubt-solving sessions throughout your preparation.
Learn time management and effective question-solving techniques for the AFK exam.
Need assistance? Contact DentaBest's team and we'll guide you step by step.
On average, students prepare for 5–8 months, depending on prior knowledge.
Yes. With flexible schedules and recorded lectures, you can balance both.
Online mock exams simulate the AFK testing environment to give you real exam practice.
The AFK uses single-answer multiple-choice questions only, one point each, covering biomedical and applied clinical sciences across the NDEB blueprint. DentaBest's mock exams use the same AFK exam questions format so there are no surprises on test day.
Take your first step toward becoming a licensed dentist in Canada with confidence.
Book your FREE 30-minute orientation session today with our AFK expert Dr Sehar. Limited-time discounts available for early enrollment.
