How to book your ADC written exam seat: the new process
If you're planning to sit the ADC written exam on 17–18 March 2027, the booking process has changed.
On 23 September 2026 the Australian Dental Council announced a new booking procedure for the written exam. It's being run as a trial that may become permanent. You now choose your Pearson location first and pay straight afterwards, in the same session. That removes some old guesswork, but adds a strict time limit, so it pays to be prepared.
The booking window for the March 2027 sitting is 8–15 December 2026. The exam application fee is AUD $2,122.
This guide is a summary. For the authoritative process, always check the ADC written examination page.
What's changed
Before
You applied and paid first, then waited for Pearson's "Authorisation to Test" email weeks later before you could choose a location.
Now (trial)
You book your location on Pearson's site first, then return to ADC Connect and pay. You no longer pay without knowing your location, and you won't have to withdraw because you missed your preferred one.
Step by step: how to book
Log in to ADC Connect
Confirm that you wish to sit the written exam.
Book your location on Pearson's website
ADC Connect takes you to Pearson's site, where you choose your test location.
Book both exam days at the same location
The exam runs over two days. If you book only one day, the booking is incomplete and the seat is cancelled.
Return to ADC Connect to pay
Once your location is booked, you're sent back to ADC Connect to pay the AUD $2,122 fee.
Pay within two hours
Unpaid seats are held for two hours, then released.
Common mistakes to avoid
Letting the two-hour hold run out. Your seat is only held for two hours. If payment isn't completed in that time, the seat is released and someone else can take it.
Booking only one day. You must book both exam days at the same location. Book just one and the seat is cancelled.
Not having payment ready. The clock starts once your seat is reserved, so sort out your payment method first. Check your card limit, and be aware your bank may want to confirm a large or overseas transaction.
Assuming a shared payment link stops the clock. If a family member or sponsor is paying, you can share a payment link with them, but the two-hour limit still applies. Make sure they're available before you start.
Pre-booking checklist
Before the window opens on 8 December 2026:
- ADC Connect login ready. Make sure you can log in. Don't leave a password reset until booking day.
- Payment ready, or your helper on standby. Have your card ready, or tell the person paying when you'll be booking.
- Preferred and backup locations chosen. Pick a first choice and a second choice.
- Plan to book early in the window. If a location shows as unavailable, there are no seats left there.
Booking FAQ
When can I book for the March 2027 exam?
The booking window is 8–15 December 2026. The exam is on 17–18 March 2027.
Do I pay before or after choosing my location?
After. You book your location on Pearson's website first, then return to ADC Connect to pay in the same session.
What happens if I don't pay within two hours?
Your reserved seat is released and someone else can book it.
Can someone else pay for me?
Yes. You can share a payment link with someone helping you pay, but the two-hour limit still applies.
My preferred location isn't available. Will more seats open?
According to the ADC, if a location isn't available there are no seats left there, so have a backup location in mind.
I sat in September. When do I get my result?
Results for the September 2026 sitting are expected around late October 2026, well before the December booking window. Check the ADC website for the confirmed date.
Who do I contact if something goes wrong?
Contact the ADC directly, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm AEST, on +61 3 9657 1777.
Use the time before March well
Once your seat is booked, you have about three months to build your knowledge and get comfortable with the exam format.
PassADC has 1,200+ exam-style MCQs with explanations, and lessons that cover every subject on the ADC. You can start free with 10 practice questions a day. Pro Monthly is AUD $19/month, or the March 2027 Pass is AUD $89 one-time (access until 31 March 2027). You can try Pro free for 7 days, no card needed.
Not sure where to start? Our free readiness check takes about 3 minutes and shows your 2 weakest subjects.
Source: Australian Dental Council, Changes to the written examination booking procedure (23 September 2026).
This guide is a summary to help you prepare. Exam dates and booking procedures can change, so always confirm the current details on the ADC website before booking. PassADC is not affiliated with the Australian Dental Council.
— The PassADC team