Important disclaimer: Requirements listed here are sourced from IDG applicants who sat these exams and from publicly available information. Bench test formats change from year to year. Always verify the exact requirements directly with the school's admissions office before your examination date. This guide is a general orientation — not a substitute for official school communications.
One of the most common questions we hear from international dental graduates preparing for U.S. dental school applications: "What am I actually going to be tested on?" The answer is different for every school — and most schools do not publish a complete, definitive procedure list.
This guide compiles bench test requirements for 27 U.S. dental schools based on reports from IDG applicants across multiple application cycles. Some formats have been confirmed across multiple cohorts; others are based on individual reports and may change. Use it as your starting point. Verify directly with each school before your exam.
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL · Advanced Standing Program
Alabama's bench test is one of the most well-defined in the country — two stations with a clear target. The $250 fee is among the lowest nationally. Candidates who practice these two preps specifically will have a clear path to a strong score.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monolithic Zirconia Crown prep | #3 | Chamfer finish line, adequate occlusal + axial reduction |
| Class II cavity prep | #19 | Proximal box, gingival floor, isthmus width |
Insider Note
Zirconia crown prep has different reduction requirements than PFM — typically 1.5mm occlusal, 1.0mm axial, with a chamfer (not shoulder) finish line. If you have been drilling PFM preps exclusively, adjust your technique for zirconia before this exam.
University at Buffalo (SUNY)
Buffalo, NY · Advanced Standing Program
Buffalo is unique in testing both cavity preparations and actual restorations placed. This means you need to prepare AND restore on the typodont — not just prep. Many IDGs practice preparations extensively but have never placed restorations on a phantom head typodont. Buffalo will expose that gap.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Type |
|---|---|---|
| MO composite prep | #4 | Preparation only |
| MO amalgam prep | #19 | Preparation only |
| PFM crown prep | #8 | Preparation only |
| Amalgam filling MO | #3 | Restoration placed |
| Composite filling DO | #29 | Restoration placed |
Insider Note
Practicing restoration placement on a phantom head is a very different skill than practicing in a patient's mouth or on extracted teeth. The typodont holder, access angle, and isolation are all different. Practice both the prep AND the restoration phase before Buffalo's exam.
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, OH · Advanced Standing Program
Case Western runs an ADEX-aligned bench test. The specific tooth numbers may vary by cohort but the core stations are consistent with ADEX evaluation criteria: Class II cavity preparation, full veneer crown prep, and rubber dam placement.
| Procedure | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class II cavity prep | Phantom head / typodont | Proximal box, gingival floor, cavosurface margin angle |
| Full veneer crown prep | Phantom head / typodont | Finish line type, taper, occlusal clearance |
| Rubber dam placement | Mandatory station | Clamp selection, isolation quality |
Insider Note
Candidates trained specifically in ADEX evaluation criteria — understanding U.S. standards for margin quality, reduction percentages, and wall geometry — are at a meaningful advantage here. The ADEX framework is specific and different from the standards many IDGs trained under internationally.
University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
Aurora, CO · Advanced Standing Program
Colorado's bench test format has changed across application cycles. The 2024 format was two focused preps (MO + FGC). Earlier cycles included onlays and wax carving in addition to standard preps. Confirm the current year's requirements with the school.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| MO cavity prep | #14 | 2024 confirmed |
| Full Gold Crown (FGC) prep | #30 | 2024 confirmed |
| Class 2 amalgam prep | Upper/lower molar | Earlier cycles |
| Onlay prep | Lower molar | Earlier cycles |
| Wax carving | Lower molar | Earlier cycles |
Insider Note
FGC (Full Gold Crown) prep has specific requirements: a knife-edge or chamfer finish line, 1.5mm occlusal clearance, minimal taper (2–5° per wall). If you have only practiced PFM preps, note that FGC finish line requirements differ — FGC does not need the shoulder or deep chamfer required for porcelain support.
Howard University College of Dentistry
Washington, D.C. · Advanced Standing Program
Howard includes a written examination alongside the clinical bench test stations — which relatively few schools do. The written portion covers dental concepts, treatment planning fundamentals, and general knowledge. Do not arrive having only prepared clinical skills.
| Procedure / Component | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class 2 cavity prep | Phantom head / typodont | Standard Class II station |
| Class 3 cavity prep | Phantom head / typodont | Anterior composite preparation |
| Crown and bridge (posterior) | Phantom head / typodont | Full coverage crown and bridge preparation |
| Written examination | Mandatory | Dental concepts, treatment planning, basic knowledge |
Insider Note
Anterior Class III preparations are a separate skill from posterior operative work — the approach angle, bur size, and outline form differ substantially. Many IDGs who are strong in posterior preps have not specifically practiced anterior Class III work. Howard tests both.
Indiana University School of Dentistry
Indianapolis, IN · Advanced Standing Program
Indiana University introduced a bench test requirement starting in the 2024 application cycle — they had no bench test prior to this. The 3-unit bridge preparation requires understanding of abutment parallelism, path of insertion, and provisional coverage across multiple teeth — skills that single-unit crown preparation practice alone will not prepare you for.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PFM bridge preparation | #13–#15 (3-unit) | Abutment parallelism, path of insertion, margin consistency across both abutments |
| Composite restoration prep | #30 | Class II composite prep |
Insider Note
For the bridge prep: the critical difference from a single crown is parallelism. Both abutments (#13 and #15) must share the same path of insertion. Even a slightly divergent prep on one abutment will prevent the bridge from seating. Practice this specific skill — it requires a very different spatial awareness than single-unit work.
University of Iowa College of Dentistry
Iowa City, IA · Advanced Standing Program
Iowa's bench test is among the most comprehensive in the country. The two-day format (interview day 1, bench test day 2) covers removable prosthodontics, endodontics, crown preparation with provisional, and composite restorations — all in a single examination. The $1,500 fee reflects the scope of the assessment.
RPD design is a major blind spot for most IDGs. If you are targeting Iowa, RPD surveying and framework design on study casts needs to be in your preparation plan — not as an afterthought, but as a primary skill requiring dedicated practice weeks before the exam.
| Procedure | Tooth / Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Partial denture design | Study cast surveying | RPD framework design — major blind spot for IDGs |
| MO and DO preps (×5) | Various | Five separate cavity preparations |
| MOD composite prep + restoration | #14 | Preparation and composite filling placed |
| Access cavity | #8 | Endodontic access opening |
| Metal crown prep | #19 | Full cast metal crown preparation |
| Temporary crown | #19 | Provisional fabrication on prepped tooth |
Insider Note
Iowa is a 2-day commitment with a $1,500 bench fee. If this is in your list, it demands multi-discipline preparation — not just operative work. Practice RPD design, provisional fabrication, and endo access specifically. Candidates who prepare only for cavity preps and crown preps will be underprepared for at least 3 of Iowa's 6 station types.
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
Loma Linda, CA · Advanced Standing Program
Loma Linda's bench test has been Class II-focused in recent cycles — both a maxillary and mandibular molar MO preparation. This is a clean, well-defined target. Candidates who drill maxillary and mandibular molar Class II preps to a consistent standard will be well positioned.
| Procedure | Arch | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mandibular Molar MO prep | Lower | 2023 confirmed |
| Maxillary Molar MO prep | Upper | 2023 confirmed |
| Molar and premolar Class 2 preps | Both arches | General format (some cycles) |
Insider Note
The proximal box on maxillary molars requires a different approach than mandibular — the buccal and lingual cusps require different access angulation. Don't assume skill on mandibular automatically transfers to maxillary. Practice both specifically.
Louisiana State University School of Dentistry
New Orleans, LA · Advanced Standing Program
LSU's bench test is straightforward: Class II amalgam prep and a PFM crown prep. These are the two most commonly tested procedure types nationally. Candidates who have prepared across multiple schools will be well positioned for LSU's format.
| Procedure | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class 2 amalgam prep | Phantom head / typodont | Proximal box, gingival floor, retention form |
| PFM crown prep | Phantom head / typodont | Chamfer or shoulder finish line, adequate reduction |
Insider Note
For the PFM crown, clarify with LSU whether they prefer a chamfer or shoulder finish line — examiners at different schools may penalize the wrong finish line type even if the technical execution is excellent. This is a simple question to ask the admissions office and could make a meaningful difference.
University of Louisville School of Dentistry
Louisville, KY · Advanced Standing Program
Louisville's bench test is more comprehensive than its profile suggests. The RPD cast surveying and written exam components catch many candidates off guard — most IDGs focus their preparation exclusively on operative preps and are unprepared for removable prosthodontics knowledge and written case work.
| Procedure / Component | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class 3 composite prep | Anterior, DL surface | Anterior approach, different from posterior Class II |
| Porcelain crown prep | Anterior, shoulder finish line all around | Shoulder (not chamfer) for anterior porcelain crown — confirm requirements |
| Class 2 composite prep | Lower premolar | Standard Class II station |
| RPD cast surveying + design on paper | Study cast provided | Must survey and draw RPD framework design |
| Written exam | CD concepts + treatment planning | Complete denture principles, case-based treatment planning |
Insider Note
The anterior porcelain crown requires a shoulder finish line all around — different from the chamfer commonly used for PFM posterior crowns. The shoulder provides support for the porcelain margin on anterior teeth. Many IDGs who only practice posterior PFM preps with chamfer finish lines will produce the wrong finish line type on this station.
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
Ann Arbor, MI · Advanced Standing Program
Michigan tests a Class III cavity preparation on an anterior tooth in addition to the more common MOD amalgam and PFM crown stations. Anterior composite cavity preparations require a different bur approach, access angle, and outline form than posterior preps — a distinct skill set many IDGs under-practice.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MOD amalgam prep | #3 | Three-surface posterior cavity preparation |
| PFM crown prep | Posterior | Finish line, taper, reduction evaluated |
| DL Class 3 cavity prep | #9 | Anterior composite preparation — distolingual surface |
Insider Note
A Class III on #9 DL surface is an anterior access challenge. The preparation must preserve the mesiolingual ridge for structural integrity, maintain a beveled cavosurface margin, and not over-extend toward the incisal edge. This is a precision station — practice it specifically rather than assuming posterior preparation skill transfers.
University of Minnesota — PASS Program
Minneapolis, MN · Advanced Standing Program
UMN's PASS program bench test is one station (PFM crown prep on #19) with no bench test fee — making it one of the most accessible bench tests in the country. Focus entirely on PFM crown preparation quality for this exam.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PFM crown preparation | #19 | Finish line type, taper (2–5° per wall), occlusal clearance, axial reduction |
Insider Note
For a single-station exam, there is no margin for error and no other station to compensate. Crown preparation quality on this one tooth is your entire score. Practice #19 PFM crown prep specifically and repeatedly until your margins, taper, and reduction are consistent every time.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU)
Fort Lauderdale, FL · Advanced Standing Program
NSU's bench test fee of $3,000 is by far the most expensive of any CAAPID school nationally. The actual procedure list — Class II amalgam prep + Full Gold Crown prep — is standard and not uniquely difficult. Factor the fee into your decision about applying to NSU.
| Procedure | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class 2 amalgam prep | Phantom head / typodont | Standard Class II station |
| Full Gold Crown (FGC) prep | Phantom head / typodont | Knife-edge or chamfer finish line; minimal taper |
Insider Note
FGC prep is technically different from PFM prep — the finish line for a full gold crown is typically a knife-edge or minimal chamfer (less preparation removal than the shoulder/deep chamfer used for PFM). If you have only drilled PFM preps, adjust your finish line approach for this station.
University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry
Oklahoma City, OK · Advanced Standing Program
Oklahoma tests an FGC crown prep AND a Class II amalgam prep, with candidates choosing their own tooth numbers from provided options. The written exam covers RPD design and pediatric dentistry — two areas many IDGs under-prepare for in the written context.
| Procedure / Component | Tooth Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full Gold Crown (FGC) prep | #30, #14, #8, or #19 (your choice) | Knife-edge or chamfer finish line |
| Class 2 amalgam prep | #30, #14, #8, or #19 (your choice) | Standard Class II cavity preparation |
| Written exam | — | RPD design concepts + pediatric dentistry |
Insider Note
Oklahoma allows you to choose your tooth numbers from a set of options. Practice all four (#8, #14, #19, #30) so you can play to your strengths on exam day. #19 is typically the most familiar posterior molar for most IDGs — but have a prepared strategy for each option before you walk in.
University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine
Pittsburgh, PA · Advanced Standing Program
Pittsburgh has consistently run a two-station bench test: PFM crown prep on #14 and a Class II (DO) composite preparation on #20. A well-prepared candidate with strong crown and Class II technique should find this format manageable.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PFM crown prep | #14 | Finish line, taper, occlusal clearance |
| Class II DO composite prep | #20 | Proximal box, gingival floor; confirm if restoration placed or prep only |
Insider Note
#14 PFM crown prep can be access-challenging for some candidates due to the position of the upper first molar. Practice specifically on #14 rather than only on the more accessible #30 or #19 positions — the approach angle and mirror use differ.
Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine
Alton, IL · Advanced Standing Program
SIU's bench test is one of the most extensive in the United States. It covers operative, fixed prosthodontics (single unit AND bridge), removable prosthodontics, endodontics, and restorative placement — all as separate stations. Some stations require you to place restorations in pre-made standardized preparations, not just prepare cavities.
If SIU is in your target list, this bench test warrants 6–8 weeks of dedicated multi-discipline preparation. A candidate who has only practiced operative preps will be underprepared for at least 4 of SIU's station types.
| Station | Type |
|---|---|
| Posterior Amalgam Preparation | Cavity preparation |
| Posterior Full Cast Crown Preparation | Crown preparation |
| Removable Partial Denture Design | RPD framework design on cast |
| Endodontic Anterior Access Preparation | Endo access opening |
| Anterior Class III Cavity Preparation | Anterior composite prep |
| Class II Amalgam Restoration Placement | Restoration placed in standardized prep |
| Class III or IV Composite Restoration | Restoration placed in standardized prep |
| Fixed Partial Denture Preparation | Bridge abutment preps |
| FPD Provisional Restoration Fabrication | Temporary bridge fabrication |
Insider Note
SIU tests restoration placement in "standardized cavity preparations" — pre-made preps of defined dimensions. This means your amalgam condensation technique, carving, and composite layering will be evaluated independent of your cavity preparation quality. Practice the restoration phase as a distinct skill, not just the prep phase.
Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine
Stony Brook, NY · Advanced Standing Program
Stony Brook follows an ADEX-aligned format with Class II, crown preparation, and mandatory rubber dam as core stations. Examiners evaluate efficiency and confidence alongside technical output — a candidate who is hesitant in workflow scores lower even if their preparation quality is acceptable.
| Procedure | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class II cavity prep | Phantom head / typodont | MO or DO; specific tooth varies by cohort |
| Full veneer crown prep | Phantom head / typodont | PFM or all-ceramic; finish line, taper, reduction |
| Rubber dam placement | Mandatory | Isolation quality, clamp selection |
Insider Note
Depth calibration is critical at Stony Brook. Examiners probe preparations — under-depth and over-depth violations are penalized. If you cannot reliably produce a preparation of 1.5mm or 2mm on demand, repeatedly, this is one of the most important skills to drill before this exam.
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry
Philadelphia, PA · Advanced Standing Program
Temple updated their bench test for the 2026 cycle by adding a Class III cavity preparation on an anterior tooth (#8 or #9). This is a significant addition — anterior composite preps require a completely different technique from posterior operative work. Candidates preparing only from earlier-cycle reports (3 stations) will be underprepared.
| Procedure | Tooth Options | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic/porcelain crown prep | #8 or #9 | Confirmed |
| Class 2 MOD cavity prep | #5 or #12 | Confirmed |
| PFM crown prep | #19 or #30 | Confirmed |
| Class 3 cavity prep | #8 or #9 | NEW for 2026 |
Insider Note
Temple now tests an anterior ceramic crown AND an anterior Class III on the same tooth options (#8 or #9). Practice anterior crown prep with a shoulder finish line (anterior ceramic crowns use shoulder, not chamfer) alongside the Class III composite approach. These are two distinct technique modes on the same arch region.
Touro College of Dental Medicine
Middletown, NY · Advanced Standing Program
Touro's bench test goes well beyond what most schools test. It includes endodontic access and obturation, digital impressions, local anesthesia technique on a manikin, instrument knowledge, scaling, and patient intake — in addition to full operative and fixed prosthodontic stations.
Because Dr. Golda Erdfarb — East Coast Bench Test's lead faculty — is a professor at Touro College of Dental Medicine, ECBT candidates receive preparation specifically calibrated to how Touro's examiners evaluate. This is a meaningful advantage when the margin between pass and fail is fine.
| Category | Station | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Operative | Class 1 prep #3 O and OL | Do not transverse the oblique ridge |
| Operative | Class II prep + composite restore #19 MO | Preparation AND composite restoration placed |
| Operative | Class III prep + composite restore #9 | Preparation AND composite restoration placed |
| Fixed | Crown prep + provisional #30 | Crown preparation and temporary crown fabricated |
| Fixed | Crown prep + provisional #9 | Anterior crown prep and provisional |
| Digital | Digital impression #30 and #9 | Intraoral scanner — both prepped teeth |
| Endo | Access + obturation #8 | Full endodontic access and obturation |
| Endo | Access + pulp chamber cleaning #14 | Endo access, pulp chamber debridement |
| Hygiene | Patient intake + instrument knowledge + scaling | Complete intake process and hygiene station |
| Anesthesia | Mandibular block + maxillary infiltration on manikin | Live technique demonstration; knowledge of dosages and actions tested |
ECBT Advantage
Dr. Golda Erdfarb is Touro faculty. ECBT candidates receive preparation calibrated to Touro's specific evaluation standards — what examiners prioritize, what common errors look like at this exam specifically, and what separates a passing prep from a failing one. For candidates targeting Touro, this is the most direct preparation pathway available.
UMKC School of Dentistry
Kansas City, MO · Advanced Standing Program
UMKC's $2,500 fee is among the highest nationally. The bench test allocates exactly 1.5 hours per station — strict time limits that reward candidates who have practiced with a clock. Technically capable candidates who have never drilled under time pressure frequently run out of time here.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| PFM crown prep | #14 | 1.5 hours |
| DO composite restoration | #30 | 1.5 hours |
Insider Note
Practice both stations against a stopwatch. If you cannot complete a #14 PFM crown prep with adequate margins, taper, and reduction in under 80 minutes — leaving buffer time — you are not ready for UMKC's time constraint. Build speed through repetition, not by rushing.
UNMC College of Dentistry (University of Nebraska)
Lincoln, NE · Advanced Standing Program
Nebraska tests a monolithic zirconia crown prep (not PFM) alongside a standard MO cavity prep. Zirconia crown prep has different reduction requirements from PFM — candidates who have drilled exclusively for PFM exams should adjust their technique.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MO cavity prep | #13 | Standard Class II station — upper first premolar |
| Monolithic Zirconia Crown prep | #30 | Chamfer finish line, 1.5mm occlusal, 1.0mm axial reduction |
Insider Note
#13 is a maxillary first premolar — two roots, buccal and lingual cusps. The MO proximal box on a premolar is accessed differently than on a molar. The isthmus is narrower and the buccal and lingual walls are closer together. Practice specifically on premolar-sized typodont teeth, not just molars.
UNLV School of Dental Medicine
Las Vegas, NV · Advanced Standing Program
UNLV tests an anterior PFM crown on #11 (upper canine), a Class II MO on #6 (upper premolar), and a Class III on #9. All three require anterior-specific technique. Candidates who have practiced only posterior work will find the access angles and outline forms unfamiliar.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PFM crown prep | #11 (upper canine) | Anterior crown — shoulder or chamfer; reduced taper; labial reduction |
| Class 2 MO cavity prep | #6 (upper premolar) | Premolar-specific proximal box approach |
| Class 3 cavity prep | #9 | Anterior composite prep — lingual approach |
Insider Note
An anterior PFM crown on #11 requires a labial reduction station (1.5mm) and a lingual cingulum reduction — entirely different from posterior crown preps. Practice anterior crown preparations as a dedicated skill set before UNLV's exam. The finish line geometry and bur approach on a canine are not the same as on a molar.
University of New England (UNE)
Portland, ME · Advanced Standing Program
UNE's bench test has used different procedure lists in different application cycles. Confirm the current year's requirements directly with UNE admissions before preparing — do not rely solely on prior-cycle reports.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| #3 MOD composite prep | #3 | 2023 confirmed |
| #14 MOD composite prep + filling | #14 | 2023 confirmed |
| PFM crown prep | #9 | 2023 confirmed |
| Class II Amalgam prep | #13 | Earlier cycles |
| Zirconia Crown prep | #3 | Earlier cycles |
Insider Note
UNE's 2023 format required a composite restoration placement on #14 MOD alongside the preparation — both prep AND fill in one station. If the current cycle follows this pattern, practice composite layering and carving in addition to the preparation. Confirm with UNE directly.
University of Southern California (USC)
Los Angeles, CA · Advanced Standing Program
USC includes an MODB onlay preparation on a lower molar and a dental anatomy wax carving exercise — both less commonly tested than standard Class II and crown preps. Many IDGs who are strong in operative have not practiced onlay prep or wax carving in years.
| Procedure | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PFM crown prep | Upper premolar | Anterior/premolar crown technique |
| MODB Onlay prep | Lower molar | Cusp reduction, bevel, box form — different from full crown prep |
| Wax carving | Lower premolar on wax block | Dental anatomy accuracy: cusps, ridges, fossae |
Insider Note
An onlay preparation is distinct from a full crown — it covers specific cusps while leaving others intact. The MODB pattern covers the mesial, occlusal, distal, and buccal surfaces with buccal cusp reduction and a gingival bevel at the facial margin. If you have never specifically practiced onlay preparations, this requires targeted practice before USC's bench test.
University of Washington School of Dentistry
Seattle, WA · Advanced Standing Program
The University of Washington runs what is widely regarded as the most demanding bench test for IDG applicants in the United States. Two full days of clinical and cognitive assessment covering nearly every major dental skill. If you are targeting UW, this exam demands 6–8 weeks of dedicated multi-discipline preparation.
See how Dr. Sarita failed the bench test 3 cycles before attending ECBT — then got accepted to UW, which has this exact bench test format.
| Day / Session | Procedure | Tooth # |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 — Morning (4 hrs) | DO Amalgam prep | #5 |
| DL composite | #8 | |
| ACC (access cavity prep) | #3 | |
| MOD Amalgam restoration | #19 | |
| MIFL composite restoration | #9 | |
| Day 1 — Afternoon (3 hrs) | Endo access prep with rubber dam | #14 |
| RPD surveying — maxillary and mandibular cast | — | |
| Wax-up | #9 | |
| Day 2 | Treatment planning for presented case | — |
Insider Note
The Day 1 afternoon session alone — endo access + rubber dam, RPD surveying on both arches, AND a wax-up — is more comprehensive than many schools' entire bench tests. Candidates who have prepared only for operative preps will be underprepared for at least 3 of UW's station categories. RPD surveying, wax-up technique, and treatment planning are all skills requiring specific targeted preparation.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Richmond, VA · Advanced Standing Program
VCU tests a Class IV composite restoration on #8 — an incisal angle restoration requiring contour, translucency, and marginal ridge reconstruction. This is a distinct skill from Class III work and requires specific practice. Combined with two Class II preps, an amalgam restoration, and a zirconia crown with provisional, VCU's bench test covers a genuinely broad range.
| Procedure | Tooth # | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Class IV MIFL Composite Restoration | #8 | Incisal angle restoration — contour, translucency evaluated |
| Class II MO prep | #5 | Standard Class II station |
| Class II MOD prep | #19 | Three-surface posterior prep |
| Class II MO Amalgam Restoration | #3 | Restoration placed (not prep only) |
| Monolithic Zirconia Crown prep + Temporary | #30 | Crown prep and provisional fabrication |
Insider Note
The Class IV on #8 involves reconstructing the incisal edge — the most visible and aesthetically critical part of an anterior tooth. Color matching, incisal translucency, and natural surface texture are all evaluated. This station requires composite layering technique (enamel and dentin shades) that is different from posterior composite placement. Practice this specifically.
Western University of Health Sciences
Pomona, CA · Advanced Standing Program
Western's written exam is one of the most involved written components of any bench test nationally. The one-hour case-based format includes 30–40 MCQs on a patient scenario, a written treatment plan, and an emergency steps question — all in 60 minutes. Candidates consistently report running out of time on the final questions.
| Component | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 MOD cavity preps | Phantom head / typodont | Three separate MOD preparations |
| 5 DO cavity preps | Phantom head / typodont | Five separate DO preparations |
| Composite filling | One tooth (your choice) | Composite restoration placed in one of the prepped teeth |
| Written exam — MCQs | 30–40 questions, 1 hour | Case-based (e.g. patient with diabetes or hypertension) |
| Written exam — Treatment plan | Case provided | Full written treatment plan for the case |
| Written exam — Emergency steps | Open-ended question | Emergency protocol for selected treatment path |
Insider Note
Time strategy: Start the written exam with the LAST two questions (treatment plan + emergency steps) and leave the MCQs for the end. The open-ended written questions take the most time — many candidates run out of time on them by doing MCQs first. Also: some X-ray images in the exam may be presented upside down. This is intentional — pay attention to radiograph orientation.
Schools That Do Not Require a Bench Test
The following schools accept CAAPID Advanced Standing applicants but do not currently require a traditional in-house bench test as part of their evaluation. Some use ADEX scores (NYU), others evaluate clinical skills through portfolio review or interviews. Always confirm directly with each school — this can change cycle to cycle.
- Boston University (BU)
- Columbia University
- NYU College of Dentistry (ADEX scores used)
- Rutgers School of Dental Medicine
- Tufts University
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
- UCLA School of Dentistry
- University of the Pacific (UOP)
- University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
- UCSF School of Dentistry
- Meharry Medical College (status unclear — verify)
Non-CAAPID Programs
Detroit Mercy Dental — International Trained Dentist (ITD) Program
Detroit, MI · Non-CAAPID ITD Program
Detroit Mercy Dental runs a bench test as part of their International Trained Dentist (ITD) program interview day. Based on a 2026 interview invitation, the bench test runs from 8:00am–12:00pm with all instruments and materials provided. The afternoon consists of formal interviews, a tour, and a session with the Program Director.
| Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|
| Anterior restoration | Anterior restorative procedure |
| Posterior restoration | Posterior restorative procedure |
| 3-unit bridge preparation | Bridge abutment preparations |
| Temporary bridge | Provisional fabrication for bridge |
Non-CAAPID program — always verify directly with Detroit Mercy Dental. Requirements sourced from a 2026 interview invitation letter. Detroit Mercy's ITD program uses a different application pathway than CAAPID. Confirm current requirements with the school before preparing for this specific exam.
Quick Comparison: All 27 Schools
| School | State | Fee | Stations | RPD? | Endo? | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama (UAB) | AL | $250 | 2 | No | No | |
| Buffalo (SUNY) | NY | $1,000 | 5 | No | No | |
| Case Western | OH | — | 3 | No | No | |
| Colorado | CO | — | 2–4 | No | No | |
| Howard | DC | — | 3 + written | No | No | |
| Indiana | IN | — | 2 | No | No | |
| Iowa | IA | $1,500 | 6 (2 days) | Yes | Yes | |
| Loma Linda | CA | $500 | 2 | No | No | |
| Louisiana State (LSU) | LA | — | 2 | No | No | |
| Louisville | KY | — | 3 + RPD + written | Yes | No | |
| Michigan | MI | — | 3 | No | No | |
| Minnesota (UMN) | MN | None | 1 | No | No | |
| Nova Southeastern | FL | $3,000 | 2 | No | No | |
| Oklahoma | OK | $1,100 | 2 + written | No | No | |
| Pittsburgh | PA | — | 2 | No | No | |
| Southern Illinois (SIU) | IL | — | 9 | Yes | Yes | |
| Stony Brook | NY | — | 3 | No | No | |
| Temple | PA | $1,000 | 4 (2026) | No | No | |
| Touro | NY | — | 10+ | No | Yes | |
| UMKC | MO | $2,500 | 2 | No | No | |
| UNMC Nebraska | NE | $500 | 2 | No | No | |
| UNLV | NV | $500 | 3 | No | No | |
| Univ. New England (UNE) | ME | — | 3 | No | No | |
| USC | CA | — | 3 | No | No | |
| Washington (UW) | WA | — | 9 (2 days) | Yes | Yes | |
| VCU | VA | — | 5 | No | No | |
| Western University | CA | — | 8 + written | No | No |
Prepare for Any School's Bench Test
5 days. NYC. Dr. Golda Erdfarb (Touro faculty). 10 seats. July 13–17, 2026.