NDHCE guides: dates, fees and becoming a dental hygienist in Canada
The NDHCE is the national exam for dental hygienists in Canada, run by the Federation of Dental Hygiene Regulators of Canada (FDHRC). These guides answer the questions candidates ask most: when the exam is, how much it costs, and what comes after.
Every guide lists its sources, the date we last checked them, and what to confirm on the official site, because dates and fees change.
Latest guides
How many times can you retake the NDHCE?
The maximum number of times you can attempt the NDHCE is three. That is the first attempt plus up to two rewrites.
Last verified October 23, 2026When do NDHCE results come out? Unofficial results and the certificate
The FDHRC has up to six weeks after you write to mail your official results. It does not fast track results for any reason.
Last verified October 23, 2026What is the NDHCE passing score, and how is it scored?
The NDHCE is computer scored. You get one point for each correct answer and none for an omitted answer, so it is better to answer every question.
Last verified October 23, 2026NDHCE exam day: schedule, what you can bring and the rules
The NDHCE is two separate two-hour sessions with a compulsory 15-minute break. You must attend both and there is no partial credit.
Last verified October 23, 2026Who can write the NDHCE? Eligibility for students and graduates
A student in a CDAC or ADA/CODA accredited program can apply if they are within four months of completing the program on the application deadline date.
Last verified October 23, 2026What are the pros and cons of being a dental hygienist in Canada?
In the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association's 2025 survey, respondents reported an average effective wage of $54.85 an hour and an unemployment rate of 0.5%.
Last verified October 18, 2026What does it cost to register as a dental hygienist in Ontario?
In Ontario you pay two organizations: the FDHRC for the NDHCE, which is $960.50 with 13% HST, and the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario (CDHO) for your registration.
Last verified October 18, 2026When is the NDHCE, and when do applications close?
The NDHCE is offered three times a year, typically in or around January, May and September. The 2027 sittings are January 20 and 21, May 19 and 20, and September 22 and 23.
Last verified October 18, 2026How much does the NDHCE cost?
Registering for the NDHCE costs $850 plus tax, and that includes a $62 non-refundable fee. This is the price for the September 2026 exam onwards.
Last verified October 18, 2026Where can you study dental hygiene in Canada?
The Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada lists 34 dental hygiene programs as of September 2026: 20 in Ontario, 6 in British Columbia and 8 across six other provinces.
Last verified October 18, 2026