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Application Guide 2024:
Dentistry
Graduate Entry Dentistry Guide 2024
Dental Admissions Expert
Introduction
Graduate entry dentistry is a popular pathway for those who have already completed an undergraduate degree and wish to pursue a career in dentistry. It offers a fast-track route to obtaining a dentistry degree, allowing students to complete their studies in a shorter time frame compared to traditional dental programs.
If you have completed a degree and are now considering Dentistry as your next degree there are several different routes you can take.
In the UK, you can apply to study the dentistry undergraduate course (5 years long) or apply for the 3 or 4-year course at certain postgraduate dentistry universities.
The 3 or 4 year course is an accelerated degree in which you are integrated with the current undergraduates of different years until the end. The main difference between the 3 choices is the more accelerated the degree the lower the places and the more difficult it is to gain a place.
Dentistry is an essential profession that plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving oral health. As a dentist, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of your patients by diagnosing and treating various oral health issues, educating them on proper oral hygiene, and helping them maintain healthy teeth and gums. With a growing demand for dental professionals and the potential for a rewarding career, it's no wonder that many individuals are pursuing graduate entry dentistry programs.
In this guide, you will find out everything that you need to know about applying to dentistry as a graduate entry student.
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What are your options as a Graduate Entry Dentistry applicant in the UK in 2024?
Graduate applicants to dentistry courses in the UK have several options. There are three main courses to choose from:
There are three ways of applying to graduate entry dentistry as a graduate:
Graduate Entry (Fast Track - 3 years)
Graduate Entry (Fast Track - 4 years)
Undergraduate Entry (where graduates are accepted - 5 years)
Some universities offer a "formal" graduate entry pathway, which is open exclusively to graduate applicants and has guaranteed vacancies for them (the three and four-year GED pathway).
These are:
University of Aberdeen: 4-year course
University of Central Lancashire: 4-year course
King’s College London: 4-year course
King’s College London: 3-year course
Other universities may accept graduate applicants "informally" through their regular undergraduate dental program, where graduates will compete with undergraduate applicants for a limited number of spots.
Some universities may also offer separate course codes for graduate and undergraduate applicants, allowing them to apply to the same program without competing directly.
Overall, the choice of entry pathway will depend on the individual applicant's circumstances and preferences. It is important to carefully research the options and consult with academic advisors to determine the best fit.
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King’s College London Faculty of Dentistry Graduate Entry Dentistry
King's College Dentistry Entry Programme for Medical Graduates BDS (A204) 3 years
This is the only three-year dentistry programme in the UK - and is generally only for qualified doctors looking to study dentistry either to become OMFS (oral and maxillofacial surgeons) or to become a dentist!
Entry Requirements
Degree qualifications: Applicants must be qualified doctors (registered with the UK General Medical Council) who have completed Foundation Years 1 and 2, and wish to pursue a career in either oral and maxillofacial surgery or oral medicine/ pathology.
Necessary Grades
A levels/Scottish Highers: N/A
GCSEs/Scottish Nationals: N/A
International Baccalaureate: N/A
Personal Statement
Personal Statement: Your dentistry personal statement is one of the many factors in the overall assessment of your application. Kings are looking particularly for evidence of appropriate commitment to, and realistic appreciation of, the academic, physical and emotional demands of a dentistry degree programme and career.
Admissions Tests
Admissions test: UCAT is not needed
Interview Method
Interview method: Panel Interview
Number of Places
Number of places: 7
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University of Aberdeen Institute of Dentistry Graduate Entry Dentistry
Aberdeen Dentistry Entry Programme - Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) (A201) 4 years
Graduate entry dentistry at Aberdeen is a program designed for individuals who already have a degree in a related field and are looking to pursue a career in dentistry. The program, which is part of the Aberdeen Dentistry Entry Programme, is a four-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a First Class or Upper Second Class Honours Degree from a UK or recognized European University in applied health sciences or a recognized relevant biomedical science.
The program uses a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format for its interviews and also considers applicants' work experience as part of the selection process. In addition, applicants must take the UCAT admissions test to apply for the program. Overall, the graduate entry dentistry program at Aberdeen provides individuals with a comprehensive education in dentistry, preparing them for a successful career in the field.
Entry Requirements
Degree qualifications: First Class or Upper Second Class Honours Degree from the UK or recognised European University in applied health sciences or recognised relevant biomedical sciences.
Necessary Grades
A levels/Scottish Highers: N/A
GCSEs/Scottish Nationals: N/A
International Baccalaureate: N/A
Personal Statement
Personal Statement: The personal statement is used in the selection for the interview at the Aberdeen GED course.
Admissions Tests
Admissions test: The UCAT is needed
Learn more about UCAT registration, UCAT tutoring and UCAT courses here
Interview Method for Graduate Entry Dentistry at Aberdeen
Interview method: MMI Interview
Work Experience
Work experience: Work experience is used in the interview selection and is assessed as part of multiple mini-interviews.
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University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) School of Dentistry Graduate Entry Dentistry
UCLAN Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) (A202) 4 years
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) is a four-year degree program that provides students with a comprehensive learning experience. The programme is designed to prepare students for a successful career in dentistry and covers various topics, including dental anatomy, oral pathology, and clinical dentistry.
In addition to lectures, the programmes include hands-on clinical experience to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in the field.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a relevant undergraduate degree and meet the program's other admission requirements. Overall, the BDS program at UCLAN is a thorough and comprehensive program that can help students achieve their goals in the field of dentistry.
Entry Requirements
Degree qualifications: Minimum of a 2.1 BSc in a relevant biomedical subject (subjects that meet the learning outcomes listed in the verification of prior learning document).
Necessary Grades & Entry Requirements
A levels/Scottish Highers: 3 A-Levels with a minimum of grade C in each subject, including two subjects from A-Level Biology, A-Level Chemistry, A-Level Maths and A-Level Physics.
GCSEs/Scottish Nationals: A minimum of grade B/5 in GCSE English Language and Maths.
International Baccalaureate: A minimum of 25 points with a minimum of grade 5 in three subjects at a Higher Level, including two science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.
Personal Statement
Personal Statement: Not graded but used to ensure that all applicants who progress to interview have demonstrated their motivation for studying dentistry and pre-Covid, and that they undertook some suitable dental work experience.
Admissions Tests
Admissions test: External aptitude test not required, but all applicants that meet the requirements must sit the UCLan School of Dentistry entrance exam to verify their relevant biomedical knowledge in order to be selected for an interview.
Interview Method for Graduate Entry Dentistry at UCLAN
Interview method: Multiple mini-interviews and manual dexterity test.
Work Experience
Work experience: All applicants who progress to the interview must have demonstrated their motivation for studying dentistry and pre-Covid, and that they undertook some suitable dental work experience.
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King's College London Faculty of Dentistry Graduate Entry Dentistry
King's Graduate Entry Dentistry Programme BDS (A202) 4 years
King's College London (KCL) offers both a five-year undergraduate programme and a four-year graduate entry programme for individuals interested in pursuing a career in dentistry. By applying for both A202 and A205 programmes, individuals can maximise their chances of being accepted into the dental programme at KCL.
Entry Requirements
Degree qualifications: Either a minimum 2:1 (upper second class honours) undergraduate degree (or international equivalent) in a Biosciences subject or a 2:2 (lower second class honours) undergraduate degree with a postgraduate degree (with at least a Merit) in a Biosciences subject.
Necessary Grades & Entry Requirements
A levels/Scottish Highers: N/A
GCSEs/Scottish Nationals: N/A
International Baccalaureate: N/A
Personal Statement
Personal Statement: The dental personal statement and reference are used in the shortlisting process for an interview, however, examination results and the UCAT score are the most important factors when considering applications.
Admissions Tests
Admissions test: UCAT needed
Interview Method for Graduate Entry Dentistry at King's
Interview method: MMI interview
Work Experience
Work experience: All applicants who progress to the interview must have demonstrated their motivation for studying dentistry and pre-Covid, and that they undertook some suitable dental work experience.
As a graduate, you may be aware of the UCAS application process and how to succeed in gaining a place at the university. There are several graduate entry dentistry courses available that can guide you to helping secure a place at university however, if you need any help, please do not hesitate to contact our team for specific and tailored advice!
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Dentistry Schools Where You Can Apply As A Graduate To The Undergraduate Course in 2024
Barts And The London Queen Marys
You may apply in the final year of your degree and must be predicted/achieved at least an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in any subject. Degrees are divided into three categories.
Bioscience degrees which contain sufficient biology and chemistry
Science degrees which do not contain sufficient biology or chemistry – require achieved/predicted A/AS level biology and/or chemistry at grade C
Non-science degrees which do not contain any biology or chemistry – require achieved/predicted A/AS level biology or chemistry plus one further science (Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology) at grade B
Degrees must be completed in the natural length intended for the qualification (generally, 3 years for Bachelors, and 4 years for integrated Masters).
Use the degree title checker to check your degree subject and any additional requirements for entry. If your degree is not listed please contact us with a full transcript and previous A/AS level study in Biology and Chemistry.
They do not accept alternative qualifications in lieu of A/AS Levels or acceptable equivalents so candidates with alternative qualifications may not be accepted if their degree does not have at least two-thirds Bioscience content.
Graduates with a non-UK degree
Graduates who offer a degree with at least an upper second class honours or equivalent who have graduated from a university outside the UK must check their degree equivalency to a UK Honours degree with at least a 2:1 against the Postgraduate requirements stipulated for their region. If equivalent, applicants should then use the degree title checker to check their degree subject and any additional requirements for entry.
You may apply in the final year of your degree and must be predicted/achieved at least an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in any subject. Degrees are divided into three categories.
Bioscience degrees which contain sufficient biology and chemistry
Science degrees which do not contain sufficient biology or chemistry – require achieved/predicted A/AS level biology and/or chemistry at grade C.
Non-science degrees which do not contain any biology or chemistry – require achieved/predicted A/AS level biology or chemistry plus one further science (Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology) at grade B.
Degrees must be completed in the natural length intended for the qualification (generally, 3 years for Bachelors, and 4 years for integrated Masters).
We do not accept alternative qualifications in lieu of A/AS Levels or acceptable equivalents so candidates with alternative qualifications may not be accepted if their degree does not have at least two thirds Bioscience content.
Birmingham BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 in a full 3 year honours degree (e.g. BSc) in a health sciences related field plus A levels in Biology and Chemistry plus one other subject.
Bristol BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 Honours degree in any subject and BBB at A-level including Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics.
Cardiff BDS Requirements for Graduates
Graduates must hold a 2.1 Honours degree and have ABB at A level, or equivalent, including Biology and Chemistry. Level 2 requirements (GCSE or equivalent) must also be met.
Dundee BDS Requirements for Graduates
Minimum 2:1 honours degree, preferably in a Life Sciences subject. This should be the first degree obtained.
Glasgow BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 Honours degree or equivalent (e.g. GPA of 3.0 or above) in a relevant science subject. Must demonstrate the equivalence of Chemistry and Biology (grade A, A Level/Higher) and Maths or Physics (grade B, GCSE/Higher) obtained within the last 6 years. These qualifications can be evidenced through the degree transcript or from prior qualifications.
Leeds BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 in biomedical sciences or related subject and GCSE Maths at grade C/4.
Liverpool BDS Requirements for Graduates
Degree in any subject at a minimum of a 2:1 classification. Those with a degree that is not classified (MBChB etc.) should have achieved an overall grade of 70% or above. A minimum of 3 A levels at grade ABB or above including Chemistry and Biology. A minimum of 7 GCSEs at grade B/grade 6 or above including Maths, English Language and a Science subject. Vocational/Applied GCSEs or A levels are not accepted.
Manchester BDS Requirements for Graduates
Minimum of 2:1 honours degree and should have achieved a minimum of BBB at A-level (32 in IB) in their first sitting. Applicants with a relevant science degree are exempted from the subject specification at A-Level, but must still meet the BBB academic standard. Relevant subjects include most Biomedical and Life Sciences disciplines or other approved courses. Please see our FAQ pages. Applicants offering other degrees will need to hold at least two science subjects at A-level including Biology and Chemistry. UCAT, Maths at minimum grade B/6 at GCSE and English Language requirements also apply. Graduates and final year undergraduates must offer an academic reference on their UCAS form.
Newcastle BDS Requirements for Graduates
A 2:1 honours degree or higher is required, and must include Biology as a significant percentage of the degree. We also accept applicants with a Pass in a Dental Hygiene and Therapy degree.
Graduates are accepted onto the full 5-year course. A degree with a 2:1 or higher is required, and must include Biology and Chemistry as a significant percentage of the degree.
Plymouth BDS Requirements for Graduates
This is only for degrees being already completed at the University of Plymouth
Graduates from the University of Plymouth School of Biomedical Science are eligible to apply for entry into the first stage of the BDS program. This route is valid for two years following graduation, and all applications must be made through UCAS. The following criteria apply to graduate applicants:
Applicants must have achieved or be predicted to achieve a first-class degree (70% or higher) from the University of Plymouth School of Biomedical Science.
Applicants from this route must successfully complete an interview process before being offered a place.
Degrees completed outside of the University of Plymouth will not be considered. Instead, applicants are encouraged to take the GAMSAT exam.
Plymouth GAMSAT Cut-Offs:
Below are examples of the score thresholds applied in previous admissions cycles. We are unable to set the GAMSAT threshold in advance of the application deadline, instead, all GAMSAT applicants are ranked based on scores achieved.
2019 entry
Section 1: 50
Section 2: 54
Section 3: 52
Overall: 56
2020 entry
Section 1: 49
Section 2: 56
Section 3: 49
Overall: 54
2021 entry
Section 1: 54
Section 2: 57
Section 3: 49
Overall: 56
2022 entry
Section 1: 50
Section 2: 54
Section 3: 50
Overall: 52
Queens Belfast BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 honours degree in a science-based subject, plus BBB at A-level. If the applicant achieves a 1st class honours degree, then BBC at A-level is acceptable.
Sheffield BDS Requirements for Graduates
2:1 honours in science and related degrees.
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UCAT For Graduate Entry Dentistry
To apply for a graduate-entry dentistry program, you will typically need to take the UCAT (check each programme specifically on each website). The exact requirements for UCAT scores may vary for each dental school that you are applying to. In general, however, you can expect to need a high score on the UCAT in order to be considered for admission to a graduate-entry dentistry programme in the UK.
You can find out more about the UCAT by reading our ultimate guide to the UCAT, understanding more about scores in the UCAT in 2024 and considering joining one of our UCAT courses, UCAT tutoring or joining the Ultimate Programme which includes everything that we can help with, alongside a qualified dentist.
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Graduate Entry Dentistry Personal Statement in 2024
A graduate-entry dentistry personal statement is a written statement that is 4000 characters long that is submitted as part of your UCAS application to a graduate-entry dentistry school in the United Kingdom.
This statement is typically used by admissions committees to evaluate an applicant's qualifications, motivation, and potential for success in a dentistry programme.
Your graduate-entry dentistry personal statement for a UK program should be well-written, focused, and clear. It should highlight your strengths and accomplishments and should demonstrate your passion for dentistry and your commitment to pursuing a career in the field. You should also explain why what skills you have gained from your undergraduate course, and why you believe it is the right fit for you.
Overall, a well-written graduate-entry dentistry personal statement for a UK program can be an important part of your application and can help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of being admitted to the program of your choice. It is important to take the time to craft a strong and compelling statement that showcases your qualifications and potential for success in dentistry in the UK.
Make sure you read our ultimate guide to dentistry personal statements and consider submitting your graduate entry dental personal statement as part of our 5* dentistry personal statement editing service
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Graduate Dentistry Entry Requirements 2024
To be eligible for a graduate entry dentistry programme in the UK, applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree, preferably in a science-related field. They must also meet the minimum entry requirements for their chosen university, which typically include obtaining a specific grade in their degree, as well as meeting the necessary subject prerequisites. In addition, applicants must also demonstrate a strong aptitude for dentistry through work experience, volunteering, or shadowing dental professionals.
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Graduate entry dentistry in Europe
Graduate entry dentistry programmes are also available in several European countries, such as Ireland, Spain, and Hungary.
The entry requirements and duration of these programs may vary depending on the country and institution, but most require a Bachelor's degree and a strong background in science.
Additionally, some programs may require students to sit for an entrance exam, such as the GAMSAT, to assess their suitability for dentistry.
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Graduate Entry Dentistry Funding & Fees
What are the tuition fees for graduate dentistry courses in the UK?
Tuition fees for graduate entry dentistry courses in the UK vary depending on the university and whether the student is from the UK or an international applicant.
Domestic students can expect to pay between £9,250 and £11,000 per year, while international students may face fees between £20,000 and £50,000 per year.
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FAQ about Graduate Dentistry Programmes in the UK
A. How competitive is graduate entry dentistry?
Graduate entry dentistry is highly competitive, with limited spaces available at UK universities. Applicants are encouraged to have a strong academic record, relevant work experience, and excellent exam scores to increase their chances of success.
B. How long is a dentistry degree?
A traditional dentistry degree in the UK takes five years to complete. However, graduate entry dentistry programs can range from three to four years, depending on the course structure and intensity.
C. How to become a dentist?
To become a dentist, one must complete a dentistry degree, followed by a period of vocational training known as Dental Foundation Training (DFT) in the UK. After this, individuals can register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and begin practicing as a dentist.
D. How many years is dentistry?
The length of a dentistry degree varies depending on the programme and country. In the UK, a traditional dentistry degree takes five years, while graduate entry programmes can range from three to four years.
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