International Applicants

Are you an international student or a foreign-trained dentist?

International student: A native of a foreign country that is in the process of completing or has completed their undergraduate education in the U.S. or another country that wishes to attend dental school in the United States or Canada on a student visa.

Foreign-educated dentist: An individual who has attended, graduated and earned a dental degree from a dental school in a country other than the U.S. or Canada.

The distinction between an international student and a foreign-educated dentist is important, as the process of gaining admission into dental school can be different. If you are a foreign-educated dentist, make sure to learn the steps to practice in the U.S. and research advanced standing programs for foreign educated dentists.

If you are an international student, the good news is that you are qualified to apply to most dental schools in the United States and Canada. The bad news is that you may have to go to some extra lengths to apply to dental school. Many schools require international students to demonstrate English language proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or providing some other assurance of proficiency in English. The other downside of being an international student with dreams of going to dental school in the United States is that it is more difficult to get financial aid since you are not a U.S. or Canadian Citizen, but there are resources that can help you find other options.

Don't let these things discourage you from applying to dental school in the U.S. or Canada though international students are encouraged to do research and apply to schools that support international applicants. Every school has different policies on admission requirements for international students, so just make sure to do your research!