Last Updated on December 13, 2024
Dentistry in the United Kingdom typically lasts five to six years and is academically and technically challenging. Universities throughout the United Kingdom provide undergraduate, postgraduate, and diplomas during their tenure, and students learn how to diagnose, prevent, and treat oral ailments and afflictions. The first year of dentistry academic studies focuses on fundamental concepts such as oral biology, anatomy, biochemistry, and orthodontics. The first year of dentistry academic studies focuses on fundamental concepts such as oral biology, anatomy, biochemistry, and orthodontics. Indian dentists can also practice in the UK after passing the General Dental Council’s ORE exam. An international student studying dentistry in the UK can earn an average of 31,00,000 INR annually.Â
Eligibility Requirements For Dentistry Courses UK
While dental school admission requirements vary, here are some of the most common eligibility criteria in the United Kingdom for dentistry.
- Transcripts: You must have the documents or the certificate of your higher education; which includes the transcript of your 12th grade.
- Bachelor’s degree: If you are applying for a master’s degree, you must have a degree in a relevant field.
- English Language Proficiency Requirements: An overall IELTS score of 7.0, with no component score below 6.5.Â
- Typical A-Level requirements: AAA in biology and chemistry.Â
- International Baccalaureate requirements: A minimum of 37 points.Â
Dentistry Courses UK Admission Process
Individuals who wish to study dentistry in the United Kingdom must first complete admission tests. These tests are used by almost all dental schools in countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia. Most institutes use the UCAT or University Clinical Aptitude Test.
- The computer-based exam assesses applicants’ quantitative, verbal, reasoning, and cognitive abilities, among other skills. Individuals can take this test at a local test centre.
- The above-mentioned eligibility criteria, UCAT scores, and a statement of purpose should all be included in the email application. Institutes then invite the selected students for in-person or virtual interviews.Â
- Individuals can either accept or deny the admission letter. If an individual accepts the offer, they can proceed with the visa application.
- If your admission to the university is confirmed then you should apply for the visa and complete all the necessary documentation.
Top Universities & Colleges For Dentistry In UK
The top universities for dentistry in UK are as follows:
- University of Manchester
The University of Manchester offers a BDS Dentistry course, which is the first step towards a career in dentistry. It is a five-year program that combines the study of fundamental and advanced dental sciences with extensive clinical knowledge and experience. The QS World University Rankings 2021 ranked the university fifth in Dentistry.
- University of Liverpool
The BDS course in Dental Surgery by the University of Liverpool is designed to facilitate the development of teamwork, leadership skills, and personal growth. The programme includes quality improvement projects to ensure an in-depth understanding of clinical governance. Individuals in this programme can also engage with the local community and enhance their skills in a primary care setting. The University was ranked 14th in Dentistry for 2020 in the UK.Â
- University of GlasgowÂ
The University of Glasgow School of Dentistry offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research opportunities in dentistry. Located in Scotland, their Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is a highly regarded course in the UK.
It is a modern, integrated course offered to around 400 students over approx. period of 5 years. From the importance of oral health for patients to experiencing a typical day in the life of a dentist, students will learn it all at this university. In The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021, the University of Glasgow is ranked 1st for Dentistry.
- Cardiff University
Cardiff University School of Dentistry is Wales’ only school that offers distinctive and significant dental leadership. They offer master’s and doctoral-level courses that prepare students to shape the future of healthcare. Their postgraduate courses are taught by internationally renowned academic researchers and clinicians.
They create a nurturing and welcoming environment in which students can thrive. Cardiff University is ranked among the top three universities in the United Kingdom for dentistry.
- University of Bristol
Bristol Dental School offers courses and training at the University of Bristol Dental Hospital. Their BDS program is a five-year course that equips students with the fundamental skills needed for modern clinical dental practice.
Students can begin working with from their second year. The school also provides students with experience working in highly integrated teams. Bristol University School of Dentistry is ranked among the top 10 in the United Kingdom.
- University of Dundee
This public research university in Scotland is known for its BDS course in dentistry. Dundee students develop skills and knowledge in many areas of dentistry. In addition, they learn how to operate on patients at the university’s dental hospital. Their program encourages individuals to learn creatively and interactively.
Students can also participate in research projects through summer internship programs in this course. In the 2021 Guardian University Guide, the University of Dundee is ranked in the top five in dentistry.
- University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Dental Institute is the dental school of the University of Edinburgh. It provides undergraduate and postgraduate dentistry courses, as well as online learning. One of their most popular courses is the BA (Hons) in Oral Health Sciences.
This is a four-year program of study leading to a qualification in Dental Hygiene Therapy. The university ranks 16th in the QS World University Rankings.
8. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham School of Dentistry attracts top professionals and students seeking to conduct world-class research and make a difference. The school enrols over 130 students each year and is strategically located for research and development.
Their Bachelor of Dental Hygiene and Therapy program connects fundamental theory with real-world clinical experience economy at all stages. This is why it is a sought-after and fully integrated course in dentistry. The school is ranked 13th in the world by QS World.
9. King’s College London
The King’s College Dental BDS course is a research-led program with teaching staff with high levels of clinical experience across all disciplines. It is one of the largest dental schools in the UK, producing 150 graduates each year.
King’s College London Dentistry has been ranked 1st in the 2021 QS UK rankings. The school uses teaching methods to ensure students have a rich experience from the start.
Dentistry Courses in UK Fees
The average tuition fee for international students is given below in a table:
| Degree Type | Average Annual Tuition Fee |
| First-year (BDS) | £27,000 |
| MDS in England | £23,500 |
The fees of the different Top Universities which are Offering Full-Time Dentistry Courses in the UK are as follows:
| University | Program | Rankings | Fees (Approx.) |
| University of Manchester | BDS Dentistry | QS World 2021: 5th in Dentistry | £40,000 per year |
| University of Liverpool | BDS Dental Surgery | UK 2020: 14th in Dentistry | £38,500 per year |
| University of Glasgow | Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) | Times 2021: 1st for Dentistry | £47,000 per year |
| Cardiff University | MSc and PhD in Dentistry | Top 3 in the UK for Dentistry | £39,950 per year |
| University of Bristol | BDS Dentistry | Top 10 in the UK for Dentistry | £39,000 per year |
| University of Dundee | Dentistry BDS | Guardian 2021: Top 5 for Dentistry | £34,650 per year |
| University of Edinburgh | BSc (Hons) in Oral Health Sciences | QS World: 16th | £28,950 per year |
| University of Birmingham | BSc in Dental Hygiene and Therapy | QS World: 13th | £23,760 per year |
| King’s College London | BDS Dentistry | QS World 2021: 1st in the UK for Dentistry | £43,500 per year |
Conclusion
Dentistry in the UK is a challenging academic field lasting five to six years, with universities offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma programs. Indian dentists can practice in the UK after passing the General Dental Council’s ORE exam. International students can earn an average of 31,00,000 INR per year, with tuition fees of around £40,000 per year. Top universities offering full-time dentistry courses include the University of Manchester, the University of Liverpool, the University of Glasgow, Cardiff University, and many others.
FAQs
How can I get admission to dentistry in the UK?
To get admission to dentistry in the UK, take the UCAT test, submit your scores, and write a statement of purpose. Apply via email. If selected, attend an interview. If accepted, complete the visa process.
How much does BDS cost in the UK for Indian students?
For Indian students, the average annual cost for a BDS degree in the UK is around £27,000.
What is the tuition fee for dentistry in the UK?
The average annual tuition fee for dentistry in the UK is approximately £27,000 for international students.
Is an Indian BDS degree valid in the UK?
An Indian BDS degree is not directly valid in the UK. Graduates need to pass the Overseas Registration Exam (ORE) to practice in the UK.
Gaurav Kandari is a seasoned study abroad consultant with over 5 years of experience, specializing in guiding students to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. An avid traveler, he draws on his global adventures to enrich his consulting, providing invaluable insights to aspiring scholars.
