CAAPID vs ADEA PASS: What's the Difference?
- Dr Dev Prajapati
- Jan 24
- 12 min read
"Should I apply through CAAPID or PASS?"
If you've asked this question, you're not alone. These two application systems sound similar, they're both run by ADEA, and they both involve dental education in the United States.
But they serve completely different purposes.
Using the wrong one wastes your time and money. Worse, it shows you don't understand the U.S. dental system — a red flag for admissions committees.
This guide explains exactly what CAAPID and PASS are, who each one is for, and which one YOU need based on your goals.
CAAPID vs PASS: What's the Difference? CAAPID (Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists) is for international dentists seeking to earn a U.S. DDS/DMD degree through Advanced Standing Programs. PASS (Postdoctoral Application Support Service) is for dentists who already have a U.S. dental degree seeking specialty residency training (orthodontics, periodontics, etc.). International dentists typically use CAAPID first to earn their DDS/DMD, then may use PASS later if pursuing specialty training.
[TABLE OF CONTENTS]
What is CAAPID?
What is ADEA PASS?
CAAPID vs PASS: Quick Comparison
Who Should Use CAAPID?
Who Should Use PASS?
Can International Dentists Use PASS?
CAAPID vs PASS: Requirements Comparison
CAAPID vs PASS: Application Process Comparison
CAAPID vs PASS: Timeline Comparison
CAAPID vs PASS: Cost Comparison
CAAPID vs PASS: Outcomes Comparison
The International Dentist Pathway: CAAPID Then PASS
What is ADEA AADSAS? (Another System Explained)
Common Mistakes: Choosing the Wrong Application System
Frequently Asked Questions About CAAPID vs PASS
1. What is CAAPID?
CAAPID (Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists) is the application system for internationally trained dentists who want to earn a U.S. dental degree (DDS or DMD) through Advanced Standing Programs.
CAAPID in simple terms:
If you graduated from a dental school outside the U.S. or Canada and want to practice dentistry in America, you need a U.S. dental degree. CAAPID is how you apply for programs that grant that degree.
Key facts about CAAPID:
Feature | Details |
Full name | Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists |
Operated by | ADEA (American Dental Education Association) |
Purpose | Apply to Advanced Standing Programs (DDS/DMD programs for international dentists) |
Who it's for | Dentists with degrees from outside U.S./Canada |
Outcome | DDS or DMD degree from a U.S. dental school |
Program length | 2-3 years |
Number of participating schools | 35+ |
What you get through CAAPID:
Application to Advanced Standing Programs
Path to earning a U.S. DDS or DMD degree
Eligibility for U.S. dental licensure after graduation
Ability to practice general dentistry in the United States
Who uses CAAPID:
International dentists (BDS, foreign DDS/DMD holders)
Dentists trained outside the U.S. and Canada
Anyone needing a U.S. dental degree to practice in America
2. What is ADEA PASS?
ADEA PASS (Postdoctoral Application Support Service) is the application system for dentists seeking specialty residency training in fields like orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, and other dental specialties.
PASS in simple terms:
If you already have a DDS or DMD from a U.S. dental school (or equivalent recognized degree) and want to specialize, PASS is how you apply to residency programs.
Key facts about PASS:
Feature | Details |
Full name | Postdoctoral Application Support Service |
Operated by | ADEA (American Dental Education Association) |
Purpose | Apply to dental specialty residency programs |
Who it's for | Dentists with U.S. DDS/DMD seeking specialty training |
Outcome | Specialty certification (orthodontist, periodontist, etc.) |
Program length | 2-6 years depending on specialty |
Specialties covered | Orthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Prosthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, and more |
What you get through PASS:
Application to dental residency programs
Path to becoming a dental specialist
Advanced training in a specific field
Higher earning potential in specialty practice
Who uses PASS:
U.S. dental school graduates (DDS/DMD holders)
International dentists who have COMPLETED an Advanced Standing Program
Anyone seeking dental specialty training after earning a U.S. dental degree
3. CAAPID vs PASS: Quick Comparison
CAAPID and PASS serve completely different purposes in the dental education pathway.
Side-by-side comparison:
Feature | CAAPID | PASS |
Full name | Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists | Postdoctoral Application Support Service |
Purpose | Earn a U.S. DDS/DMD degree | Specialty residency training |
Who it's for | International dentists without U.S. degree | Dentists WITH U.S. degree seeking specialty |
Prerequisite | Foreign dental degree | U.S. DDS/DMD (or equivalent) |
Programs applied to | Advanced Standing Programs | Specialty Residency Programs |
Outcome | DDS or DMD degree | Specialty certification |
Practice after | General dentistry | Specialty practice (ortho, perio, etc.) |
Program length | 2-3 years | 2-6 years |
When to use | First step for international dentists | After earning U.S. dental degree |
The key difference in one sentence:
CAAPID = Get your dental degree recognized (earn DDS/DMD) PASS = Specialize after you have a recognized degree
4. Who Should Use CAAPID?
Use CAAPID if you are an international dentist who needs to earn a U.S. dental degree before you can practice in America.
You should use CAAPID if:
Your Situation | Use CAAPID? |
You have a dental degree from outside U.S./Canada | ✅ Yes |
You want to practice dentistry in the United States | ✅ Yes |
You don't have a U.S. DDS or DMD | ✅ Yes |
You're an international dentist starting your U.S. journey | ✅ Yes |
You should NOT use CAAPID if:
Your Situation | Use CAAPID? |
You already have a U.S. DDS/DMD | ❌ No |
You graduated from a U.S. or Canadian dental school | ❌ No |
You're a U.S. dental student seeking specialty training | ❌ No |
You want to specialize, not earn a general degree | ❌ No (use PASS) |
CAAPID is your first step if:
You are a foreign-trained dentist who wants to:
Have your dental education recognized in the U.S.
Practice general dentistry in America
Eventually specialize (you'll use PASS later, AFTER earning DDS/DMD)
5. Who Should Use PASS?
Use PASS if you already have a U.S. dental degree (DDS/DMD) and want to pursue specialty training in a field like orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery.
You should use PASS if:
Your Situation | Use PASS? |
You have a U.S. DDS or DMD | ✅ Yes |
You want to become a dental specialist | ✅ Yes |
You're a U.S. dental school graduate seeking residency | ✅ Yes |
You completed an Advanced Standing Program and want to specialize | ✅ Yes |
You should NOT use PASS if:
Your Situation | Use PASS? |
You're an international dentist without U.S. degree | ❌ No (use CAAPID first) |
You want to practice general dentistry | ❌ No |
You haven't graduated from dental school yet | ❌ No |
You need a U.S. dental degree first | ❌ No (use CAAPID) |
PASS is your next step if:
You already have a DDS/DMD and want to:
Become an orthodontist
Become a periodontist
Become an endodontist
Become an oral surgeon
Specialize in any recognized dental specialty
6. Can International Dentists Use PASS?
International dentists can use PASS only AFTER completing an Advanced Standing Program and earning a U.S. DDS or DMD degree.
The international dentist pathway:
Step | What You Do | System Used |
Step 1 | Have foreign dental degree | — |
Step 2 | Apply to Advanced Standing Programs | CAAPID |
Step 3 | Complete program, earn DDS/DMD | — |
Step 4 | Apply to specialty residency (if desired) | PASS |
Can you skip CAAPID and go directly to PASS?
No. PASS requires a U.S. dental degree (or Canadian, or other specifically recognized credential). Your international dental degree alone does not qualify you to use PASS.
The sequence matters:
International Dentist
↓
Use CAAPID
↓
Complete Advanced Standing Program
↓
Earn DDS/DMD
↓
[Optional] Use PASS
↓
Complete Specialty Residency
↓
Become SpecialistException:
Some specialty programs may accept international dentists directly into combined programs, but this is rare and program-specific. The standard pathway is CAAPID first, then PASS if specializing.
7. CAAPID vs PASS: Requirements Comparison
CAAPID and PASS have different requirements because they serve different populations at different stages of dental education.
CAAPID Requirements:
Requirement | Details |
Dental degree | From outside U.S./Canada |
Credential evaluation | ECE or WES required |
INBDE | Required by most schools |
TOEFL | Required (typically 80-100+) |
Letters of recommendation | Typically 3 |
Personal statement | 4,500 characters |
U.S. clinical experience | Recommended |
PASS Requirements:
Requirement | Details |
Dental degree | U.S. DDS/DMD (or Canadian equivalent) |
NBDE/INBDE | Completed as part of dental education |
Dental school transcript | From U.S./Canadian school |
Letters of recommendation | Typically 3-4 |
Personal statement | Varies by program |
Research/publications | Often valued |
GPA | Often competitive factor |
Key difference:
Factor | CAAPID | PASS |
Starting point | Foreign dental degree | U.S. dental degree |
Exams required | INBDE, TOEFL | Already completed during dental school |
Credential evaluation | Required (ECE/WES) | Not required (U.S. degree) |
8. CAAPID vs PASS: Application Process Comparison
Both systems are centralized application services, but they serve different programs with different processes.
CAAPID Application Process:
Step | Description |
1 | Create CAAPID account |
2 | Complete application (personal info, education, experiences) |
3 | Submit transcripts for credential evaluation |
4 | Send INBDE and TOEFL scores |
5 | Request letters of recommendation |
6 | Write personal statement |
7 | Select Advanced Standing Programs |
8 | Pay fees and submit |
9 | Complete supplemental applications |
10 | Interview if invited |
11 | Receive decisions |
PASS Application Process:
Step | Description |
1 | Create PASS account |
2 | Complete application (personal info, education, experiences) |
3 | Request dental school transcript |
4 | Request letters of recommendation |
5 | Write personal statement |
6 | Select specialty residency programs |
7 | Pay fees and submit |
8 | Complete supplemental applications (if required) |
9 | Interview if invited |
10 | Participate in Match (for some specialties) |
11 | Receive decisions/match results |
Key process differences:
Feature | CAAPID | PASS |
Credential evaluation | Required | Not required |
TOEFL | Required | Not required |
Match process | No formal match | Some specialties use Match |
Rolling admissions | Yes | Varies by specialty |
9. CAAPID vs PASS: Timeline Comparison
CAAPID and PASS operate on different timelines aligned with their respective programs.
CAAPID Timeline (2025-2026 cycle):
Phase | Timeline |
Application opens | March 2025 |
Best submission window | April - June 2025 |
Most deadlines | July - October 2025 |
Interview season | August 2025 - March 2026 |
Decisions | October 2025 - April 2026 |
Classes begin | Summer 2026 |
PASS Timeline (varies by specialty):
Phase | Typical Timeline |
Application opens | Varies (often summer) |
Submission period | Varies by program |
Interview season | Fall - Winter |
Match Day (if applicable) | Varies by specialty |
Programs begin | July (typically) |
Key timeline differences:
Factor | CAAPID | PASS |
Application opens | March (consistent) | Varies by specialty |
Deadlines | July - October (most) | Varies significantly |
Decision process | Rolling admissions | Match or rolling (depends on specialty) |
Start date | Summer | Usually July |
10. CAAPID vs PASS: Cost Comparison
Both application systems involve fees, but the overall costs differ based on program type.
CAAPID Costs:
Cost Item | Amount |
First school | $264 |
Each additional school | $115 |
Supplemental fees (per school) | $75-150 |
15 schools total | ~$4,000 |
Plus: INBDE ($1,350), TOEFL ($190-270), credential evaluation (~$230) | ~$1,800-2,000 |
Total application costs | ~$6,000-7,000 |
PASS Costs:
Cost Item | Typical Amount |
Application fee | Varies |
Per program fee | Varies by specialty |
Interview travel | $1,000-5,000+ |
Total application costs | $2,000-8,000 (varies widely) |
Total program costs comparison:
Factor | CAAPID (Advanced Standing) | PASS (Specialty Residency) |
Tuition | $100,000-300,000 (2-3 years) | Varies widely (some paid, some paid stipend) |
Stipend | None (you pay tuition) | Many programs pay residents |
Length | 2-3 years | 2-6 years |
Important note about specialty residencies:
Unlike Advanced Standing Programs where you PAY tuition, many specialty residency programs PAY YOU a stipend (though some hospital-based programs or certain specialties may charge tuition). This is a significant financial difference.
11. CAAPID vs PASS: Outcomes Comparison
CAAPID leads to a dental degree and general practice eligibility, while PASS leads to specialty certification and specialist practice.
CAAPID Outcomes:
Outcome | Details |
Degree earned | DDS or DMD |
Practice eligibility | General dentistry |
Licensure | Eligible for state dental license |
Career paths | Private practice, group practice, academia, public health |
Average salary | $150,000-200,000 (general dentist) |
Further training | Can pursue specialty (via PASS) |
PASS Outcomes:
Outcome | Details |
Credential earned | Specialty certification |
Practice eligibility | Specialty practice |
Board certification | Eligible for specialty board certification |
Career paths | Specialist private practice, academia, hospital |
Average salary | $200,000-400,000+ (varies by specialty) |
Highest earning specialties | Oral surgery, orthodontics, endodontics |
Career pathway comparison:
Pathway | Steps | Timeline |
General dentist | Foreign degree → CAAPID → DDS/DMD → License → Practice | 3-5 years |
Specialist | Foreign degree → CAAPID → DDS/DMD → PASS → Residency → Specialist | 5-10 years |
12. The International Dentist Pathway: CAAPID Then PASS
For international dentists who want to specialize, the pathway is CAAPID first (to earn DDS/DMD), then PASS (to pursue specialty training).
Complete pathway for international dentist becoming a specialist:
Step | Action | System | Duration |
1 | Graduate from foreign dental school | — | Completed |
2 | Pass INBDE | — | 2-6 months |
3 | Take TOEFL | — | 1-2 months |
4 | Get credential evaluation | — | 2-3 months |
5 | Gain U.S. clinical experience | — | 1-6 months |
6 | Apply to Advanced Standing Programs | CAAPID | 6-12 months |
7 | Complete Advanced Standing Program | — | 2-3 years |
8 | Earn DDS/DMD | — | End of Step 7 |
9 | Apply to specialty residency | PASS | 6-12 months |
10 | Complete residency | — | 2-6 years |
11 | Become board-certified specialist | — | After residency |
Total timeline to specialist:
From | To | Duration |
International dentist | General dentist (DDS/DMD) | 3-5 years |
General dentist | Specialist | 2-6 years |
International dentist | Specialist | 5-10 years |
Should you plan for specialty from the start?
If you know you want to specialize:
CAAPID is still your first step (non-negotiable)
Choose Advanced Standing Programs with strong specialty connections
Build research and clinical experience during Advanced Standing
Network with specialty faculty
Apply to PASS during your final year of DDS/DMD program
13. What is ADEA AADSAS? (Another System Explained)
AADSAS is a third ADEA application system — for U.S. college students applying to dental school for the first time (not relevant for international dentists).
The three ADEA application systems:
System | Full Name | Who It's For |
AADSAS | American Associated Dental Schools Application Service | U.S. pre-dental students |
CAAPID | Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists | International dentists |
PASS | Postdoctoral Application Support Service | Dentists seeking specialty residency |
AADSAS explained:
Feature | AADSAS |
Purpose | Apply to first-time dental school (4-year DDS/DMD programs) |
Who uses it | U.S. college students, career changers |
Prerequisite | Bachelor's degree (or in progress) |
Outcome | Admission to 4-year dental school |
Program length | 4 years |
Why international dentists DON'T use AADSAS:
AADSAS is for 4-year dental programs starting from scratch
You already have a dental degree
Advanced Standing Programs (2-3 years) are more appropriate
CAAPID is designed specifically for your situation
Summary:
If You Are... | Use... |
U.S. college student wanting to become a dentist | AADSAS |
International dentist wanting U.S. degree | CAAPID |
Dentist with U.S. degree wanting to specialize | PASS |
14. Common Mistakes: Choosing the Wrong Application System
Using the wrong application system wastes time, money, and signals you don't understand the U.S. dental education system.
Mistake 1: International dentist applying through AADSAS
What They Did | Why It's Wrong | What They Should Do |
Applied to 4-year dental programs via AADSAS | Already has dental degree; would repeat 4 years unnecessarily | Apply to Advanced Standing Programs via CAAPID |
Mistake 2: International dentist applying directly to PASS
What They Did | Why It's Wrong | What They Should Do |
Applied to specialty residency via PASS | Doesn't have U.S. degree required for residency | Complete CAAPID → DDS/DMD first, then PASS |
Mistake 3: Confusing CAAPID with PASS
What They Did | Why It's Wrong | What They Should Do |
Thought CAAPID was for specialty training | CAAPID is for earning DDS/DMD, not specializing | Understand CAAPID = degree, PASS = specialty |
Mistake 4: Not knowing CAAPID exists
What They Did | Why It's Wrong | What They Should Do |
Tried to apply directly to dental schools | Most schools use centralized CAAPID system | Research CAAPID and apply through proper system |
How to avoid these mistakes:
Understand your current status (international dentist without U.S. degree)
Understand your goal (earn DDS/DMD first, then optionally specialize)
Use the right system for each step (CAAPID first, PASS later if specializing)
Research before applying
15. Frequently Asked Questions About CAAPID vs PASS
What is the difference between CAAPID and PASS?
CAAPID is for international dentists seeking to earn a U.S. DDS/DMD degree. PASS is for dentists who already have a U.S. degree seeking specialty residency training. CAAPID comes first for international dentists; PASS comes after earning the U.S. degree (if pursuing specialty).
Can international dentists use PASS?
Only after completing an Advanced Standing Program and earning a U.S. DDS or DMD. You cannot use PASS with only a foreign dental degree.
Should I use CAAPID or PASS as an international dentist?
Start with CAAPID to earn your U.S. dental degree. Use PASS later only if you want to pursue specialty training after earning DDS/DMD.
What does CAAPID stand for?
Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists.
What does PASS stand for?
Postdoctoral Application Support Service.
Are CAAPID and PASS run by the same organization?
Yes, both are operated by ADEA (American Dental Education Association).
Can I skip CAAPID and go straight to PASS?
No. PASS requires a U.S. dental degree. International dentists must complete an Advanced Standing Program (via CAAPID) first.
What is AADSAS and how is it different from CAAPID?
AADSAS is for U.S. college students applying to 4-year dental school programs. CAAPID is for international dentists applying to 2-3 year Advanced Standing Programs. International dentists should use CAAPID, not AADSAS.
Do I need TOEFL for PASS?
Generally no, since PASS applicants already have a U.S. dental degree, demonstrating English proficiency. TOEFL is required for CAAPID.
How long after completing CAAPID programs can I apply through PASS?
You can apply during your final year of your Advanced Standing Program, similar to U.S. dental students applying to residency.
Is specialty residency required after CAAPID?
No. After earning your DDS/DMD through an Advanced Standing Program, you can practice general dentistry. Specialty training (PASS) is optional.
Which specialties can I apply to through PASS?
PASS covers most dental specialties including orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, pediatric dentistry, oral pathology, oral radiology, and dental public health.
How competitive is PASS compared to CAAPID?
Both are competitive, but specialty residencies (PASS) are often extremely competitive, especially in high-demand fields like orthodontics and oral surgery.
Do all dental specialties use PASS?
Most do, but some programs may have separate application processes. Always verify with specific programs.
Can I apply to CAAPID and PASS at the same time?
No. You must complete an Advanced Standing Program and earn your DDS/DMD before being eligible for PASS.
Understand the System. Use the Right Path.
The U.S. dental education system has specific pathways for different situations. Understanding which system to use is the first step to achieving your goals.
For international dentists:
CAAPID is your starting point — it's how you earn a U.S. dental degree
PASS is optional and comes later — only if you want to specialize after earning DDS/DMD
Using the wrong system doesn't just waste money. It shows admissions committees you haven't done basic research — a red flag that can follow you throughout the process.
P2A Consultancy helps international dentists navigate the CAAPID process successfully. From INBDE preparation to personal statement writing to interview coaching, we guide you through every step of earning your U.S. dental degree.
Ready to start your CAAPID journey?
About the Author
Dr. Dev Prajapati Co-Founder, P2A Consultancy
Dr. Dev navigated the CAAPID pathway himself and matched into Howard University's AEGD Residency Program. He understands the U.S. dental education system from personal experience and helps international dentists avoid confusion and mistakes.
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