Free Guides
ATDH Guide (2026): Sections, Scoring and How to Study
200–500 scores · Reading Comprehension, Language Usage, Quantitative Reasoning, Perceptual Ability, Biology and General Chemistry
ATDH Guide
How to Study for the ATDH (Admission Test for Dental Hygiene)
How to study for the ATDH: all six sections, the time you get per question, the free ADA practice materials and an 8-week study plan.
Read guide
The Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) is the American Dental Association's entrance exam for dental hygiene programs. It has 240 multiple-choice questions across six sections, is scored 200 to 500 and is taken year-round at Prometric test centers. Not every program uses it: the ADA's 2026 list shows 17 programs that require the ATDH and 17 more that accept it. Start with our guide to studying for the ATDH for section-by-section advice and an 8-week plan.
At a glance
ATDH at a Glance
The ATDH is written by the ADA's Department of Testing Services and used by dental hygiene programs alongside your GPA and prerequisites. Here are the key facts.
| Fact | ATDH |
|---|---|
| Sections | Reading Comprehension, Language Usage, Quantitative Reasoning, Perceptual Ability, Biology, General Chemistry |
| Questions | 240 multiple choice |
| Length | 290 minutes in total, including a tutorial, two optional 15-minute breaks and a survey |
| Score scale | 200–500 for each section, plus English Language Skills and Overall composites; no passing score |
| Fee | $150 |
| Where | Prometric test centers, year-round |
Source: the ATDH User's Guide and the 2026 ATDH Candidate Guide, checked November 7, 2026.