List of Dental Schools in the UK: Admission Procedure, Fees, and Eligibility

Aspiring dental professionals seek the knowledge and training necessary to make a difference in people’s lives. The United Kingdom boasts a rich history of dental education, with list of dental schools that attract students from around the world.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various dental schools in the UK, shedding light on their admission procedures, fees, and eligibility criteria.

So, buckle up as we embark on a journey through the fascinating landscape of dental education in the UK.

List of Prestigious Dental Schools in the UK: A Legacy of Excellence

Excellent dentistry education has a long history in the United Kingdom. Reputable dental schools have developed over time, molding generations of talented dental practitioners. These universities – list of dental schools provide students with a comprehensive educational experience by fusing cutting-edge research, modern facilities, and knowledgeable professors.

The Top Dental Schools in the UK

1. King’s College London Dental Institute:

• Degree Name: Clinical Dentistry: Dentistry BDS and Dental Therapy & Hygiene BSc
• Web URL: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study-at-kings/ug/subjects/dentistry
• How to Apply: You must make an online application via the University Admissions Service – UCAS
• When to Apply: For Medicine or Dentistry, deadline is 15 October in the year prior to entry.
• Eligibility Criteria: A-level (or equivalent) grade A in Biology or Chemistry, in addition to grade A in one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics or Psychology.
• Fees: £9,250 per year

2. University of Birmingham School of Dentistry:

• Degree Name: BDS Dental Surgery
• Web URL: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/schools/dentistry
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: A complete application must be submitted to UCAS by the 15th October deadline
• Eligibility Criteria: Required to have 3 A levels and the standard offer is AAA, Applicants must be predicted AAA, including Biology/Human Biology and Chemistry, and all A2 modules of three subjects must be taken in Year 13.
• Fees: £21,000 to £21,780 per year.

3. University of Manchester School of Dentistry:

• Degree Name: BDS Dentistry
• Web URL: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/2024/00398/bds-dentistry-first-year-entry/
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: A complete application must be submitted to UCAS by the 15th October deadline
• Eligibility Criteria: AAA including Biology and Chemistry. 36 points are required overall (to include core points) with at least 666 at higher level. If Maths and English Language are not offered as part of the Diploma, they should be offered at GCSE or IGCSE at grade B (6) or above.
• Fees: £9,250 per year for the first year. Fees for the international student for first year will be £34,500. Clinical fees for students entering Year 2 in 2023 will be £56,000.

4. University of Glasgow Dental School:

• Degree Name: DENTISTRY BDS
• Web URL: https://www.gla.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/dentistry/
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: Before September of the following year
• Eligibility Criteria: Entry Requirements in details: https://www.gla.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/dentistry/#tab=entry
• Fees: £48,960. Also, examinations-only students pay the registration fee of £170.

5. University of Sheffield:

• Degree Name: Dental Surgery BDS
• Web URL: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/2024/dental-surgery-bds
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: Before September of the following year
• Eligibility Criteria: AAA including Chemistry and Biology + pass in the practical element of any science A Levels taken. A Levels + additional qualifications AAB, including AA in Chemistry and Biology + B in Dentistry or health-related EPQ (EPQ and A Levels must be taken in the same sitting to receive the alternative offer). International Baccalaureate 36, with 6 in Higher Level Chemistry and Biology
• Fees: £42,770 per year for International Students. And, £9,250 for locals.

6. University of Central Lancashire

• Degree Name: Bachelor in Dental Surgery (BDS)
• Web URL: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/undergraduate/courses/dental-surgery-bds
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: Before September of the following year. Applications must be made by the October UCAS deadline.
• Eligibility Criteria: Entry onwards are required to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) before you apply. Plus 3 A Levels at Grade C or above at least 2 must be from Biology or Physics or Chemistry or Mathematics. General Studies is not counted towards A Level entry. Please note: there is some difference with the International Students.
• Fees: £9,250 per year for UK students For international students: £20,000 per year for the first year and £48,000 per year for second year and so on.

7. Newcastle University Dental School

• Degree Name: Dental Surgery BDS
• Web URL: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/a206/
• How to Apply: Apply through UCAS
• When to Apply: Before September of the following year. Applications must be made by the October UCAS deadline.
• Eligibility Criteria: A-Level: AAA, IB: 37 points
• Fees: for local students: £9,250. For international students: £40,500

The Journey Begins: Admission Procedure

The demanding admissions procedure is the first step on the path to become a dentist in the UK. To choose the most qualified applicants, each dentistry school adheres to a certain set of standards. The UK’s unified admission process, UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), is where prospective students must submit their applications.

The application typically includes academic qualifications, personal statement, reference letters, and, in some cases, an admissions test, such as the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) or the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT). The competition can be fierce, as dental schools often receive a high number of applications for limited seats.

Related Article: BMAT Med Schools in the UK

Academic Excellence: Eligibility Requirements

To gain entry into a dental school in the UK, academic excellence is a crucial prerequisite. While specific requirements may vary slightly between institutions, applicants generally need strong grades in core subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at the A-levels or equivalent.

Moreover, a strong personal statement that demonstrates the applicant’s love of dentistry and any relevant professional experience may greatly improve their chances of getting accepted to dental school.

Delving into the Dental Curriculum: What to Expect?

When a student is admitted to dental school, they start an exciting academic adventure. A thorough grasp of oral health, dental treatments, and patient care is provided through the dentistry curriculum. It combines a variety of theoretical learning, hands-on practice, and clinical instruction.

Dental anatomy, oral pathology, dental pharmacology, and dental materials are just a few of the topics covered by students. They acquire practical experience in dental offices where they work with skilled professionals to identify and treat a range of oral health issues.

The Financial Aspect: Understanding Dental School Fees

Although earning a dental degree can lead to a lucrative profession, doing so requires a considerable financial commitment. The price of dentistry school varies between colleges and might increase or decrease over time. The cost of attending dentistry school for domestic students ranged from about £9,000 to £38,000 year as of 2021, depending on the institution and the particular program.

International students typically face higher fees, with costs ranging from £20,000 to £50,000 per year. It is essential for prospective students to research the fees and explore scholarship options or financial aid to ease the burden.

Beyond the Classroom: Clinical Training and Practice

Dentistry requires actual application and patient care in addition to textbook study and lectures. Each school in the list of UK’s dental schools makes sure that students have enough clinical experience to become skilled practitioners.

Students treat patients, carry out dental treatments, and learn how to manage difficult cases while being supervised by experienced dentists. Through practical training, students gain confidence and become more equipped to handle the difficulties of dental practice in the real world.

Specialization and Continuing Education: The Pursuit of Excellence

After completing their dental degrees, many dentists choose to specialize in specific areas of dentistry. The UK offers a plethora of postgraduate courses and training programs for specialization in fields like Orthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and more.

These advanced courses equip dentists with specialized skills and knowledge, allowing them to offer specialized treatments and broaden their career opportunities.

Beyond Borders: Attracting International Students

Beyond the boundaries of the nation, list of dentistry schools in the UK are highly sought for. Many overseas students go to the UK every year to complete their dentistry education. Students from many backgrounds come to the nation because of its reputation for academic achievement, cutting-edge research, and intercultural experiences.

International applicants go through the same admissions procedure as domestic candidates, but they might have to fulfill extra requirements including taking English language exams like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Challenges and Rewards: Navigating Dental School Life

The path through dentistry school is not without obstacles since it requires commitment, tenacity, and hard work. It might be difficult to juggle one’s obligations to school, clinical training, and personal life.

However, obtaining a dental education has many benefits. All of it is worthwhile because of the fulfillment that comes from seeing patients’ dental health improve, the delight of seeing smiles alter, and the sense of success that comes from changing people’s lives for the better.

Embracing the Future: Innovations in Dental Education

Dental education changes as technology develops and research continues to enhance the field of dentistry. The UK is leading the way in integrating the most recent developments into its dental school curricula.

Students are exposed to cutting-edge equipment and procedures that prepare them for the dental practice of the future, such as digital dentistry, virtual reality simulations, and the use of AI in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Wrapping Up:

The dental schools in the UK stand as beacons of excellence, illuminating the path for aspiring dental professionals. With their rich legacy, comprehensive curricula, and emphasis on practical experience, these institutions mold the dentists of tomorrow.

The journey from application to graduation may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. So, if you dream of a career in dentistry, the list of UK’s dental schools await, ready to nurture your passion and shape your future in the world of smiles and oral health.