How to Apply for the ADAT: Step-by-Step (2025–2026 Guide)
Many candidates find that learning how to apply for the ADAT (Advanced Dental Admission Test) is almost as stressful as studying for it.
A simple mistake—like a name mismatch or a missing ECE report—can delay your authorization and force you to miss the testing window. Whether you are a U.S. dental student or an internationally trained dentist, the process requires precision.
This guide breaks down exactly how to apply for the ADAT in 12 clear steps to ensure your application is approved for the 2025–2026 cycle.
Checklist: Before Learning How to Apply for the ADAT
To apply smoothly, you need to have three specific items ready before you even open the ADA portal:
- A DENTPIN®: Your universal ID for all ADA testing.
- Proof of Eligibility: This varies based on your school accreditation.
- ECE Evaluation: Critical if your dental school is not CODA/CDAC accredited.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility Category
The first step in understanding how to apply for the ADAT is knowing which category you fall into:
- Student in a CODA or CDAC-accredited dental school.
- Graduate of a CODA or CDAC-accredited school.
- Student or Graduate of a non-accredited dental school (International).
Note: International candidates have stricter documentation requirements (see Steps 3 & 4).
Step 2: Create Your DENTPIN®
If you don’t already have one, register for a DENTPIN first.
Crucial Warning: Your name on the DENTPIN, your application, and your ID must match exactly.
Step 3: International Dentists – Request ECE Early
If you are figuring out how to apply for the ADAT as an international dentist, this is the most important step. You must have your official dental school transcripts evaluated by ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
- Request a “General Report”.
- It must be sent electronically from ECE to the ADA.
- Personal copies are not accepted.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
- Non-accredited dental students: You need a “Certification of Eligibility Form” completed by your school.
- Accredited graduates: Have your proof of graduation ready.
Step 5: Read the Candidate Guide
Before you submit, read the official ADAT Candidate Guide. This document is your rulebook. It helps you avoid test center surprises that could void your score.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Log in to the ADA Department of Testing Services portal. You will complete the application, agree to the regulations, and pay the fee.
Step 7: Pay Your Fees
Part of knowing how to apply for the ADAT is budgeting for the costs. As of the 2025 cycle:
- Examination Fee: $450 USD (Includes score reporting to programs selected now).
- Non-Accredited Processing Fee: $435 USD (Extra fee for international candidates).
- Rescheduling Fee: $25 USD.
Step 8: Choose Score Recipients Carefully
During the application, you select which programs receive your scores.
- Free: Reports selected during the application are included.
- Final: Once you submit, this list cannot be edited.
- ADEA PASS: If you select at least one program, your scores can also be shared with ADEA PASS.
Step 9 & 10: Schedule with Pearson VUE
Once approved, you will receive an eligibility email. You can then schedule your test with Pearson VUE. The ADAT is offered from March 1 to August 31.
Step 11 & 12: Test Day and Scores
After the test, official scores are typically posted to your MyADA account within 3–4 weeks. If you are unsure what your results mean, read our guide on what is a good ADAT score.
Common Mistakes When Applying
Even after learning how to apply for the ADAT, candidates still make these errors:
- Waiting too long for ECE: This is the #1 cause of delays.
- Name Mismatches: Ensure your DENTPIN, ECE, and ID are identical.
- Wrong Recipients: You can’t change score recipients after hitting submit.
Need Help with How to Apply for the ADAT?
If you are still unsure about the process, or if you need to plan your test date around your study schedule, we can help.
At ScoreADAT, we don’t just provide the best ADAT question bank; we guide you through the logistics.