FRACDS
Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons
Overview
The Fellowship Examination (FRACDS) is an advanced assessment designed for dentists seeking Fellowship in General Dental Practice through the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. It evaluates a candidate’s depth of clinical knowledge, professional judgment, and ability to manage complex dental cases to a high standard.
The examination comprises two main components. The first is a three-hour written paper, which assesses comprehensive understanding across general dental practice, including diagnosis, treatment planning, clinical reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making. Candidates are expected to demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also sound professional insight and ethical awareness.
The second component is a 35-minute viva voce (oral) examination. During this session, candidates engage in structured discussions with examiners on a combination of pre-seen and unseen clinical cases. This format tests the dentist’s ability to think critically under pressure, clearly justify clinical decisions, communicate effectively, and apply knowledge to real-world patient scenarios.
Overall, the FRACDS Fellowship Examination is designed to confirm that candidates have achieved a high level of clinical competence, confidence, and professional maturity required of Fellows in General Dental Practice.
Key Information:
Fellowship Examination in General Dental Practice (FRACDS)
This is an advanced, summative assessment for experienced general dentists.
- Focus: Clinical maturity, diagnostic skill, treatment planning, and management at an advanced, non-specialist level.
- Format:
- Written: 3-hour paper.
- Viva Voce: 30–35 minute oral exam covering a seen case and an unseen case.
- Structure: Candidates choose one of three focus areas: (1) Oral Medicine/Surgery/Pathology, (2) Periodontics/Restorative/Endodontics, or (3) Paediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics.
- Eligibility: Must have passed the PDS Exam (or have exemption), completed an undergraduate degree at least 3 years prior, and have at least 2 years of clinical experience.
- 2026 Dates: Written: 12–13 January 2026; Viva: 19–20 January 2026 (Enrolments closed, register for 2027).
Candidates can register through the official RACDS website.
Fellowship in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (FRACDS(OMS))
Key Exam Information & Policies (General)
- Preparation: RACDS offers a 7-week PDS Prep Course with live webinars.
- Results: Results for Fellowship exams are usually sent via email within a week of the exam.
- Fees: Detailed in the College Fees webpage; payment is generally in AUD or NZD.
- Location: Exams may require travel to specific locations; candidates are advised not to book travel until case reports are approved.
Note: For the most up-to-date, specific, and detailed information, please always refer to the official RACDS website.
Eligibility
Eligibility for the FRACDS (General Dental Practice) examination is intended for dentists who have already gained a solid foundation of clinical experience and professional development. Applicants must be fully registered dentists and are generally expected to have completed a minimum of two years of supervised clinical practice. In practice, the examination is most suitable for clinicians with at least three years of experience after completing their undergraduate dental degree, as the assessment assumes a high level of clinical exposure and independent decision-making.
Candidates are also required to have successfully passed the Primary Dental Sciences (PDS) Examination conducted by the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, or to have been formally granted an exemption from this requirement. In addition, applicants typically hold Membership of the RACDS in General Dental Practice (MRACDS-GDP), which reflects prior achievement and progression within the College’s professional pathway.
Overall, these eligibility criteria ensure that candidates attempting the FRACDS examination are experienced, knowledgeable, and well prepared to demonstrate the advanced clinical competence and professional judgment expected of a Fellow in General Dental Practice.
Key Eligibility Requirements for FRACDS(GDP):
- Registration: Must hold current registration to practice dentistry with a recognized body.
- Experience: A minimum of two years of clinical experience is required.
- Primary Exam: Candidates must have passed or been granted an exemption from the Primary Dental Sciences Examination.
- Membership: Candidates generally need to have completed the Membership in General Dental Practice (MRACDS(GDP)) program.
- Qualifications: Must have completed an undergraduate dental degree at least three years prior to enrollment.
Key Eligibility Requirements for FRACDS(OMS) - Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery:
- Training: Requires completion of an accredited four-year, or sometimes five-year, training program.
- Qualifications: Must hold both a dental and a medical degree.
- Approval: Candidates must have their registration and eligibility approved by their Director of Training and the Training Committee.
Exemptions:
Candidates with certain qualifications, such as a Master’s, PhD, or DClinDent, may be eligible for an exemption from the Primary Dental Sciences Examination.
How we assist candidates in clearing this exam
Exact examination Q&A bank
Previous Score upgrade
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