Novel coronavirus (COVID-19): Information for candidates

Overview

The Australian Dental Council (ADC) recognises the concern and uncertainty in relation to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

The health and wellbeing of our candidates, staff and examiners is our priority. We are providing this information to inform candidates of the ADC’s response to COVID-19.

In its response, the ADC is guided by the Australian Government Department of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The following information outlines our current response.

Written examinations

The March 2020 written examination will take place on 23 to 24 March 2020 as scheduled.

The ADC has been working closely with Pearson VUE to ensure that as many testing centres as possible are available for candidates. Those candidates who have been impacted by testing centre closures have already been contacted.

As this is an evolving situation, it is possible that Pearson VUE may need to close additional centres. Any affected candidates will be notified immediately and we will work with Pearson VUE to assist those candidates.

Candidates should contact Pearson VUE directly for any information about protective measures available at testing venues.

Practical examinations

Practical examinations will continue as scheduled at the ADC examination centre in Melbourne, Victoria.

Masks can not be worn during the practical examination, outside of the assessment of infection control. Masks are currently available in the technical OSCE rooms and simulation clinic for infection control assessment purposes only.

Masks directly impact the assessment of standard OSCEs and cannot be worn by examiners, simulated patients or candidates at these stations.

Withdrawals

The ADC understands that uncertainty regarding COVID-19 may impact a candidate’s decision, or ability, to travel for an examination.

Candidates have the option to withdraw from their written or practical examination and reapply to sit at a later date (subject to eligibility requirements). Any written or practical examination withdrawals will be processed in accordance with the relevant withdrawal guidelines outlined in the Written examination handbook and the Practical examination handbook.

Candidates cannot apply to postpone their examination or transfer to a later examination date.

Reducing spread of infection

To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading any virus, including COVID-19 and common influenza, we ask that all candidates follow the Australian Government Department of Health guidelines around prevention. This also includes withdrawing from an examination if you are displaying signs of infection with COVID-19 or any other communicable disease (please see the withdrawals section above).

It is important to follow all instructions of the Australian Government in relation to self-isolation protocols and travel restrictions. ADC encourages candidates to contact us if you think you may be impacted by these restrictions.

Further updates

The ADC is closely monitoring the situation as it develops and will continue to be guided by publicly available information released by the Australian Government Department of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Updates from both organisations can be accessed via the following websites:

• Australian Government Department of Health
• World Health Organisation

We are committed to keeping our candidates informed and will provide updates via the ADC website as more information becomes available.