Assessment Structure
Two distinct phases designed to validate your clinical knowledge and practical proficiency.
Knowledge Test
Theory-based Assessment- Scheduled twice yearly: April & November
- Conducted remotely via MaxExam App
Professional Discussion
Practical Proficiency Assessment- Scheduled twice yearly: January & June
- Evaluated by NEBDN-appointed examiners
Eligibility Requirements
- Complete and submit Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) on PebblePad (Minimum 6 months to complete)
- Complete regular Mock Exams
- Results must demonstrate readiness for the Knowledge Test
Important Notice:
If either requirement is not met 4 weeks before the exam, the exam will be deferred by 6 months and deferral fees will apply.
Registration Deadlines
| Exams | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|
| November Knowledge Test & January Professional Discussion | March |
| April Knowledge Test & June Professional Discussion | August |
Examination Fees
Course Registration
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Course Registration | £525 |
Deferral & Change of Date Fees
| Service | Early Notice | Late Notice* |
|---|---|---|
| Change Knowledge Test Date | £35 | £300 |
| Change Professional Discussion Date | £150 | £300 |
* Within 4 weeks of exam
Resit Fees
| Exam | Cost |
|---|---|
| Knowledge Test Resit | £150 |
| Professional Discussion Resit | £300 |
Course Extension
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Course Extension (per month) | £100 |
Cheating Violations
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam Resit Fee | £150–£300 |
| Invigilation Fee | £500 |
Attempt Policy
Students have up to three attempts per exam. Failing all three attempts requires restarting the entire NEBDN Dental Nursing course and paying full fees again.
Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)
The PoE ensures students gain essential workplace experience for the NEBDN qualification.
PoE Requirements:
- Structured around Practical Experience Record Sheets (PERS)
- Covers all areas of general dentistry
- Tracks student performance in clinical procedures
- Documents support for diverse patient groups (adult, child, elderly, special care needs)
- Must be submitted at least 4 weeks before the Knowledge Test exam
Exam Conduct & Invigilation
Monitoring
Exams are monitored using the MaxExam app with webcam and microphone invigilation to ensure compliance.
Important Guidelines:
- Take the exam in a quiet, private environment
- Remain in camera view throughout the exam
- No phones, tablets, smartwatches, or external materials allowed
- Pen and paper may be used for small notes
Cheating Policy:
Cheating in any form will not be tolerated. Students found cheating or manipulating the examination will be investigated and may be withdrawn from the course or required to resit under supervision with additional fees.
Student Transfers
Many students from other NEBDN-accredited Dental Nursing courses are now transferring to Sage Academy. Existing students can continue their NEBDN Dental Nurse Course with full student support and benefit from our expertise and resources.
Next Steps
Step 1
Begin your NEBDN Dental Nursing course
Step 2
Complete your Portfolio of Evidence (minimum 6 months)
Step 3
Register for the Knowledge Test exam
Step 4
Sit and pass the Knowledge Test
Step 5
Register for the Professional Discussion exam
Step 6
Sit and pass the Professional Discussion
Step 7
Register with the General Dental Council (GDC)