Janice Lozano
Becoming a dentist in the USA as an international student is a complex process that requires careful planning and dedication. The road to becoming a dentist in the USA typically involves a lengthy educational journey, with dental school lasting four years, and the entire process taking between 8 to 9 years in total. International students must navigate various requirements, exams, and licensing procedures to qualify as dentists in the USA. This includes the possibility of completing an advanced standing program, which is a condensed version of the traditional DDS/DMD program, allowing foreign-trained dentists to earn an American Dental degree and practice in the USA.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length of program | 8-9 years in total (4 years undergraduate, 4 years dental school) |
| Residency | Optional, adds 2-6 years depending on specialty |
| Routes for international graduates | Go directly into residency or attend dental school first |
| Dental school | Advanced standing route: repeat the last two years of dental school in one of the 40 |
| Advanced standing programs: condensed version of DDS/DMD program, typically 2-3 years | |
| CODA-accredited programs: offered by U.S. dental schools, graduates can take state or regional board examinations | |
| DDS/DMD programs: can be completed at six colleges in the U.S. ranked in the top 50 dental institutes in the world | |
| Examinations | NBDE: required for licensure and for applying to postgraduate studies |
| INBDE: written exam administered by the JCNDE | |
| DAT exam | |
| GRE | |
| Loans | Federal loans: available for U.S. citizens and green card holders |
| Private student loans: require an American co-signer | |
| Other requirements | TOEFL exam for international students |
What You'll Learn
Requirements for international students
To become a dentist in the USA as an international student, you must first complete a dental degree from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This is a basic requirement for all applicants, set by the state board of dentistry. If your degree is from an institution not accredited by CODA, you will need to apply for an advanced standing dental education program. These programs are shorter than the traditional 4-year D.M.D. or D.D.S. programs and allow international students to obtain a D.M.D. or D.D.S. degree within two to three years of study.
The majority of dental schools also require international students to successfully complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for admission to their programs. Additionally, you will need to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE), which is required for licensure in the United States. Each state has its own licensure requirements, but all licensing boards use the NBDE to satisfy a major portion of their written requirements.
It is important to note that there are limited residency programs available to international graduates, and many programs require you to be a US dental school graduate. If you choose to pursue a residency, you will need to apply through a program called PASS.
When applying to dental school, US schools like to see applicants who have improved themselves and their communities through extracurricular activities, volunteering, and developing professional skills. It is also beneficial to gain exposure to research, as this will enhance your understanding of advancements in the dental field.
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The application process
Education and Accreditation:
Firstly, it is imperative to hold a degree from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA-accredited programs are recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) and are essential for obtaining a license to practice dentistry in the US. Most states require international dental graduates to obtain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. These degrees can be earned through advanced standing programs, which are typically shorter than traditional four-year programs and usually last two to three years.
Advanced Standing Programs:
Advanced standing programs are specifically designed for internationally trained dentists who aim to obtain a DDS or DMD degree and become licensed to practice in the US. These programs allow foreign-educated dentists to be matriculated into the DDS or DMD program with advanced standing, bypassing the need to start as a first-year dental student. The American Dental Education Association (ADEA) manages the Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists (CAAPID), which enables applicants to submit a single application and set of credentials to multiple advanced standing programs.
Examinations:
International students must successfully complete the required standardized exams, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). Additionally, the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) is mandatory for licensure in the US. The NBDE assesses your understanding of fundamental biomedical, dental, and dental hygiene sciences and your ability to apply this knowledge in problem-solving contexts. Passing the NBDE qualifies you to take state or regional board examinations, leading to dental licensure and the legal right to practice independently within the state of licensure.
Residency Programs:
International dental graduates can choose to apply for residency programs directly. However, these programs are highly competitive, with limited spots available. Some residency programs may require applicants to hold a DDS or DMD degree from a US dental school. It is important to note that not all residency programs are CODA-accredited, and it is advisable to prioritize accredited programs as they lead to becoming a Board-certified specialist, enhancing career prospects.
Extracurricular Activities and Community Service:
US dental schools value well-rounded applicants who demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and volunteer work. Applicants are encouraged to gain exposure to organized dentistry associations and engage in research activities to enhance their understanding of advancements in the field. These experiences showcase an applicant's leadership skills, diversity awareness, and commitment to serving underserved communities.
Student Loans:
The availability of student loans depends on your citizenship or residency status. Green card holders can apply for federal loans, while non-green card holders can explore private student loans. However, private loans typically require an American co-signer who is legally liable in case of non-repayment.
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Funding your studies
Tuition fees for US dental schools can be high, and international students may not be eligible for the financial aid or scholarships available to US citizens. Therefore, it is crucial to research scholarship and financial aid options available to international students. Some schools may offer merit-based scholarships or other options to help offset tuition costs.
If you are a green card holder, you can apply for federal loans. If not, you can apply for private student loans, but you will need an American co-signer (a green card holder or a US citizen) to sign off on your loan application.
Advanced standing education programs are typically shorter than the traditional 4-year D.M.D. or D.D.S. programs in the US. These programs are designed for internationally-trained dentists who wish to get a license to practice dentistry in the US.
Residency programs are usually a cheaper option than going to school, and depending on the program, you might get paid a stipend. If you go for a specialty, you’ll be a specialist when you complete the program and are more likely to start at a higher pay rate.
To increase your chances of acceptance, showcase your passion for dentistry in your application materials, such as your personal statement, extracurricular activities, and volunteering experiences. Demonstrating a commitment to the field through involvement in research or shadowing at a dental clinic can also add value to your application.
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Getting licensed
To obtain a license to practice dentistry in the United States, international students must meet specific requirements. While the specific requirements vary across different states, there are three basic requirements that all applicants for dental licensure must meet:
Firstly, applicants must graduate from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA-accredited programs are offered by several US dental schools, and graduates of these programs can take state or regional board examinations to obtain licensure and practice within the US.
Secondly, international students must typically obtain a D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree. Advanced standing education programs, which are shorter than traditional 4-year programs, provide a pathway for international students to obtain these degrees and prepare for licensure in the US. These programs are designed for internationally-trained dentists and allow them to complete the degree within two to three years of study.
Lastly, international students must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE), which is a nationally recognized test required for licensure in the United States. This examination assesses the applicant's understanding of fundamental concepts in biomedical, dental, and dental hygiene sciences, as well as their ability to apply this knowledge in a problem-solving context.
It is important to note that some states may have additional requirements, such as obtaining a degree from a CODA-accredited program or completing an advanced dental education program. Therefore, it is recommended to contact the state board of dentistry in the desired state to verify the specific requirements for licensure.
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Finding work
Education and Accreditation:
Firstly, ensure that your dental degree is recognised in the USA. Foreign-educated dentists must obtain a degree from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Advanced standing programs allow international dentists to obtain a D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or D.M.D. (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree within two to three years of study. These programs are offered by various US dental schools and provide a pathway to earning an American Dental degree.
National Board Dental Examination (NBDE):
Foreign-trained dentists are typically required to pass the NBDE to earn admission into advanced standing programs. The examination assesses your understanding of fundamental dental concepts and their application in problem-solving. Passing the NBDE is a crucial step towards obtaining a license to practice dentistry in the USA.
State Licensure:
Each state in the USA has its own board of dentistry that sets the requirements for dental licensure. Contact the state board where you wish to practice to verify the specific requirements, as they may vary. Most states require graduates of international dental programs to obtain additional general dentistry education and a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree.
Residency Programs:
Consider applying for residency programs, which can provide a pathway to obtaining a license. However, keep in mind that these programs are highly competitive, and some may require you to be a US dental school graduate. Additionally, certain residency programs may only be authorised to operate in specific states.
Extracurricular Activities and Networking:
Get involved in extracurricular activities, community service, and organised dentistry groups. US dental schools value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to their communities and have gained diverse experiences. Networking within the dental field can also help you learn about job opportunities and make valuable connections.
Work Visa:
As an international student, ensure you have the appropriate visa that allows you to work in the USA. The type of visa you need may depend on the specific job and your qualifications. Seek guidance from immigration services or consult with your educational institution to understand the requirements and process for obtaining a work visa.
Job Search and Applications:
Start your job search by exploring dental job boards, networking within the dental community, and reaching out to potential employers. Prepare a strong resume and cover letter that highlights your qualifications, experience, and skills. Be prepared to attend interviews and showcase your knowledge, skills, and ambition during the selection process.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a DDS or DMD degree from a dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Generally, dental school is a four-year program, making the road to becoming a dentist between 8 to 9 years in total (4 undergrad years & 4 dental school years).
First, you need to complete a four-year bachelor's degree. Then, you need to pass the DAT exam and enrol in a DDS/DMD program. After that, you need to pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) and state-level dental licensure exams. Finally, you need to gain intern-level experience in dentistry.
Requirements vary from state to state, but all applicants for dental licensure must meet three basic requirements: education, a completed application form, and passing scores on the National Board Dental Examination.
US dental schools like to see applicants who have improved themselves and their communities in a variety of ways, such as through professional skills, volunteering, and extracurricular activities. It is also beneficial to gain exposure to research and organised dentistry.
