No, the NDEB AFK is not computer-adaptive. It is a linear, computer-based exam in which the difficulty does not respond to your answers, and every candidate sitting it faces the same questions.
What the NDEB AFK format actually is
The National Dental Examining Board of Canada Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge is a computer-based multiple-choice exam that assesses the foundational knowledge of internationally trained dentists as part of the equivalency process. It is a fixed set of questions, so everyone sitting it faces the same items, unlike an adaptive test. Confirm current question counts and timings on the NDEB website.
How the pass mark is set
The NDEB AFK is criterion-referenced, with the standard set to a defined level of competence rather than a fixed percentage, so the raw mark needed can vary while the standard stays constant. For how this compares across exams, see how medical exam pass marks are set.
What would be different if it were adaptive
If the NDEB AFK were adaptive, it would select each question based on your running ability and every candidate would see a different paper, as in the AMC CAT, explained in how computer-adaptive testing works. The NDEB AFK is a fixed paper measured against a standard.
How to prepare
With a fixed paper, target your weak areas and space your revision. iatroX offers adaptive NDEB AFK practice, with free sample questions to try at iatroX.
Frequently asked questions
Is the NDEB AFK adaptive? No. It is a linear, computer-based multiple-choice exam. Difficulty does not change based on your answers.
What does the NDEB AFK assess? The foundational knowledge of internationally trained dentists, as part of the National Dental Examining Board of Canada equivalency process.
How is the NDEB AFK marked? By criterion-referenced standard-setting to a defined competence level, so the mark needed can vary while the standard is constant.