Virtual OSCE and NDEB Certification
What You Need to Do?
1. Apply to the NDEB Certification Process
Submit the Certification Process application and fee after you become eligible through an accredited program, the Equivalency Process, an accredited degree-completion program or an accredited bridge program.
2. Register for the Virtual OSCE
When the NDEB confirms your eligibility and registration opens, select an available examination session and pay the examination fee.
3. Take the Virtual OSCE
Complete the national examination and follow the current NDEB identification, technology, conduct and scheduling rules.
4. Obtain NDEB Certification
After you pass and meet the proof-of-graduation requirements, obtain your NDEB certificate. Certification is required before you apply for Ontario registration, but it is not itself a licence to practise.
The Virtual OSCE is the national certification examination for eligible general-dentistry candidates, including graduates of accredited programs, candidates who complete the Equivalency Process, and eligible graduates of accredited degree-completion or bridge programs.
It assesses the problem-solving, clinical decision-making and judgement expected of a beginning dental practitioner in Canada.
Candidates generally must complete the Certification Process within the eligibility period established by the NDEB. The Virtual OSCE may be attempted a maximum of three times; candidates reaching the limit must meet current redesignation requirements before becoming eligible again.
Results, Verification and Appeals
Result-release schedules vary by examination. A score verification checks whether the score was calculated and reported correctly; it is not a re-evaluation of examiner judgement. A conduct appeal concerns a reported problem with examination administration and follows a separate deadline.
Obtaining the NDEB Certificate
After passing the Virtual OSCE and satisfying proof-of-graduation requirements, the NDEB grants certification and enters the candidate’s name in the national register.
NDEB certification does not expire, but it is not a licence to practise. Apply separately to the dental regulator where you intend to work.