ADC Written Exam Pass Mark & Scoring Explained
One of the most common questions candidates ask is "what's the pass mark for the ADC Written Exam?" — and the honest answer is more nuanced than a single percentage. Understanding how the exam is actually scored changes how you should approach it.
There is no fixed percentage pass mark
The ADC Written Examination is not graded against one fixed percentage. Scored questions are assessed across four clusters, and candidates must meet the required standard in every cluster. The standards are set for each examination using modified Angoff and Rasch methods; the cluster passing scores are not published.
Results use grades A to D for each cluster. Grades A and B are passing grades; C and D are failing grades. A failed cluster means the overall examination result is unsuccessful, even if performance elsewhere is stronger.
Scored vs unscored questions
Not every question on the paper counts towards your result. A block of questions are unscored pilot items being trialled for future exams. They are deliberately indistinguishable from scored questions — so the only safe strategy is to answer every question as though it counts and never spend disproportionate time hunting for "the trick."
What this means for your strategy
- Build competence across all four clusters; a failed cluster prevents an overall pass.
- Treat every question as potentially scored because pilot items are not identified.
- Practise pacing across four timed sections over two consecutive days.
- Use full-length timed mocks as internal practice evidence, not as a guaranteed pass prediction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the pass mark for the ADC Written Exam?
There is no fixed percentage pass mark. Candidates must meet an exam-specific standard in each of four clusters. The ADC reports A and B as passing grades and C and D as failing grades.
Do I need to pass every cluster?
Yes. The ADC handbook states that you must obtain a passing grade in all four clusters to pass the Written Examination overall.
Do unscored questions count?
No, pilot/unscored questions do not count towards your result, but they are indistinguishable from scored questions, so you should treat every question as if it counts.
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