Dentistry Courses in USA: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Level of study

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Fees

Exams Accepted

Course Duration

82 results found

Master of Medical Sciences (M.M.Sc.) in Geriatric Dentistry

Harvard University, USA

DURATION
3 Years
FEES
INR 57.53L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
AUG 2025

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Pediatric Dentistry Graduate Program (MS)

University of Michigan, USA

DURATION
2 Years 6 Months
FEES
INR 21.99L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
AUG 2025

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Dental Hygiene (BS)

Utah Tech University, USA

DURATION
4 Years
FEES
INR 12.34L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Pre-dentistry

Eastern Illinois University, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
INR 7.32L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Dental Hygiene (BS)

Minnesota State University, USA

DURATION
4 Years
FEES
INR 14.31L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Master of Science in Dentistry (Pediatric Dentistry)

University of Washington, USA

DURATION
2 Years
FEES
INR 35.44L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
SEP 2025

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Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

Youngstown State University, USA

DURATION
4 Years
FEES
-
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Dental Hygiene BS

Utah Valley University, USA

DURATION
4 Years 6 Months
FEES
INR 12.50L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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BS, Dental Hygiene

Clayton State University, USA

DURATION
4 Years
FEES
-
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Pre-Dental

Missouri Southern State University, USA

DURATION
4 Years
FEES
INR 11.29L/yr
EXAMS
-
INTAKE SESSION
-

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Highlights: Dentistry Courses in USA for International Students

Feature	Details
Program Types	DDS, DMD, AEGD, Postdoctoral Certificates (Endodontics, Orthodontics, etc.)
Duration	4 years (DDS/DMD); 1–3 years (specializations)
Eligibility	Bachelor’s in dental or related sciences, NBDE/INBDE scores, TOEFL/IELTS
Top Intakes	Fall (Aug/Sep) – most common
Mode of Instruction	English
Licensure Requirement	INBDE + clinical assessment + state-specific licensing
Post-Study Options	OPT (12 months) + potential H1B or residency programs
Average Tuition Fees (DDS/DMD)	$60,000 – $90,000 per year (₹50 – ₹75 lakhs/year)
Living Costs (Annual)	$12,000 – $20,000 (₹10 – ₹16.6 lakhs)
Average Starting Salary	$120,000 – $160,000 per year (₹1 – ₹1.3 crore), depending on state and specialty

Types of Dentistry Courses in USA for International Students

Dentistry courses in USA are divided across clinical doctorate programs, specialty master’s degrees, and dental technology or hygiene training. The two primary clinical degrees are Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)—both are equivalent and allow graduates to practice as licensed dentists in the US.

International students who already hold a BDS must complete Advanced Standing Programs or NBDE-qualified DDS programs. For specialization (like Orthodontics or Endodontics), MS or postgraduate certificates are available through CODA-accredited schools. Some programs also offer dental hygiene courses in USA, which are non-doctoral but lead to licensure in preventive care.

Major Dentistry Courses in USA – Overview for International Students

Course Type	Duration	Avg Tuition (USD / INR)
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)	4 years	$75,000 – $95,000/year (₹62–79 lakhs/year)
Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)	4 years	$70,000 – $90,000/year (₹58–75 lakhs/year)
Advanced Standing DDS (for BDS holders)	2–3 years	$85,000 – $100,000/year (₹71–83 lakhs/year)
MS in Specialized Fields (Orthodontics, Periodontics, etc.)	2–3 years	$50,000 – $80,000/year (₹42–66 lakhs/year)
Postgraduate Certificates/Fellowships	12–24 months	$40,000 – $60,000/year (₹33–50 lakhs/year)
Dental Hygiene/Dental Technology Programs	1–2 years	$20,000 – $40,000/year (₹17–33 lakhs/year)

DDS and DMD Programs for International Students

DDS programs for international students in USA and DMD programs lead to full dental licensure. Both follow the same curriculum and clinical structure. Entry requires 2–3 years of pre-dental coursework or a bachelor’s degree, strong DAT scores, and proof of academic readiness.
Eligibility: Bachelor’s (or equivalent), NBDE/INBDE (for advanced standing), TOEFL/IELTS, GPA 3.0+, SOP, and LORs.

Advanced Standing Programs for BDS Graduates

These are MDS equivalent in USA for Indian dentists who already hold a BDS. They allow direct entry into the second or third year of a DDS program. Schools offering these tracks often require NBDE Part I/II or INBDE clearance, TOEFL 100+, and a dental school transcript evaluation via ECE/WES.
Duration: 2–3 years. These programs are highly competitive with limited intake.

MS in Specialized Dental Fields

Students who wish to specialize (e.g., Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics) can apply to CODA-accredited MS programs. These often require a DDS or foreign dental degree, and include both didactic and clinical components.
Duration: 2–3 years. Often paired with a certificate.

Postgraduate Dental Certificates & Fellowships

Offered by some top dental schools in USA for international students, these programs focus on specific clinical skills like implantology, esthetic dentistry, or oral surgery. They don’t lead to a dental license but help build specialization for private practice or teaching.
Visa: Often on F-1 or J-1, depending on structure.

Dental Hygiene and Technology Programs

Dental hygiene courses in USA prepare students for state licensure as hygienists. These are popular among those not pursuing full DDS but still aiming for a clinical role.
Eligibility: High school diploma or equivalent, TOEFL/IELTS, and basic sciences. These programs are 1–2 years long and offered by both community colleges and universities.

Top Universities for Dentistry Courses in USA

Three USA universities rank in the top 10 globally for dentistry as per QS 2025. These schools are known for strong clinical training, research programs, and high graduate employability. Most offer hands-on experience through clinics and labs, INBDE support, and strong links with hospitals and dental boards. Public schools are often more affordable, while private universities offer broader global networks.

Top-Ranked Dental Schools in USA (QS 2025)

University Name	QS Rank (Dentistry)	Avg Tuition Fees (USD / INR)
University of Michigan–Ann Arbor	1	$82,000/year (₹68 lakh)
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)	6	$75,000/year (₹62 lakh)
Harvard University	=10	$85,000/year (₹70 lakh)
University of Pennsylvania	16	$80,000/year (₹66 lakh)
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	17	$72,000/year (₹59 lakh)
University of Washington	19	$70,000/year (₹58 lakh)
UNC Chapel Hill	21	$60,000/year (₹49 lakh)
Tufts University	22	$88,000/year (₹72 lakh)
New York University (NYU)	=23	$90,000/year (₹74 lakh)
Columbia University	37	$87,000/year (₹71 lakh)
University of Iowa	38	$58,000/year (₹47 lakh)
University at Buffalo (SUNY)	=39	$54,000/year (₹44 lakh)
The Ohio State University	42	$63,000/year (₹52 lakh)
Boston University	45	$86,000/year (₹70 lakh)

Public vs Private Dental Colleges in USA

Category	Public Schools (e.g., SUNY, UNC)	Private Schools (e.g., NYU, Tufts)
Tuition	$50,000–$65,000/year	$80,000–$95,000/year
Class Size	Smaller	Larger
Residency Link	Often linked to public hospitals	Strong private network

Dentistry courses in USA are highly structured, with 4-year DDS or DMD programs followed by optional residencies or specializations. Choosing a reputed college helps build clinical experience and improves chances for H1B sponsorship or licensure across states.

Curriculum – Dentistry Courses in USA

Dentistry courses in USA are structured around a 4-year DDS or DMD model. The first two years focus on classroom-based theory and lab simulations, while the final two involve clinical practice under supervision. Students in DDS programs for international students in USA are trained in patient care, diagnosis, treatment planning, and digital tools like CAD/CAM and intraoral scanners.

Advanced standing programs, usually 2–3 years long, condense the pre-clinical phase and move international BDS graduates into patient-facing training faster.

Core Components of DDS/DMD Programs

Phase	Key Areas	Focus
Years 1–2 (Pre-Clinical)	Anatomy, pathology, biomaterials, NBDE prep, lab simulations	Theory and technical skills
Years 3–4 (Clinical)	Patient care, radiology, prosthodontics, oral surgery	Hands-on experience
Integrated Throughout	Ethics, digital dentistry, pain control, community service	Full-scope training

Programs align with the NBDE exam for foreign-trained dentists USA or the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) format.

Intakes – Dentistry Courses in USA

Most clinical dentistry programs USA, including DDS and DMD, admit students once a year—Fall intake (August–September). Application deadlines for international students often close 10–12 months in advance, especially for top dental schools in USA for international students.

Advanced standing programs and dental hygiene courses in USA may follow separate application cycles, including Spring or Summer start dates.

Application Timeline and Intake Details

Program Type	Intake Months	Notes
DDS / DMD (Standard Entry)	Fall (Aug–Sep)	Common across all accredited schools
Advanced Standing DDS	Spring / Summer / Fall (varies)	Rolling or fixed; limited seats
Dental Hygiene / Technology	Fall + Spring	Available at community colleges and 4-year institutions

Students must prepare early—admission requirements for dentistry in USA include TOEFL, WES/ECE transcript evaluation, NBDE scores (if applicable), SOP, and LORs.

Some universities also require a dental school GPA of 3.0+ and proof of hands-on experience or observerships.

Eligibility for Dentistry Programs in USA

To apply for dentistry courses in USA, students must meet strict academic, clinical, and documentation requirements. For international students, the path varies depending on whether you’re applying to a DDS program, advanced standing track, or dental hygiene courses in USA.

Most top dental schools in USA require a bachelor’s degree in a life science field, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and either NBDE exam for foreign-trained dentists USA or INBDE for advanced programs. Shadowing or clinical experience in a USA setting is often mandatory.

Eligibility Criteria – DDS and Related Dental Programs

Requirement	DDS & DMD	Advanced Standing DDS / MDS Equivalent
UG Degree	Biology, Health Science, or BDS equivalent	BDS degree (India or other foreign country)
GPA	3.0+ (on 4.0 scale)	WES or ECE transcript evaluation required
English Test	TOEFL iBT (90–100) or IELTS (6.5–7.0)	Same
NBDE / INBDE	Not required for general DDS	Mandatory for advanced standing
Shadowing Hours	100+ recommended	US-based preferred
Exam	DAT (for standard entry)	Not required
Other	SOP, 2–3 LORs, updated resume	Same

Note: For MDS equivalent in USA, candidates must pass INBDE and apply through CAAPID to advanced standing DDS programs.

Application Process for Dentistry in USA

Applications to clinical dentistry programs USA are submitted via two centralized systems:

AADSAS (for standard DDS/DMD programs)
CAAPID (for foreign-trained dentists seeking advanced standing)

These portals collect academic records, personal statements, test scores, LORs, and more. Most DDS programs for international students in USA open applications about 10–12 months before the intake cycle, with early submissions favored.

Application Steps and Documents – Dentistry Courses in USA

Step	Description	Platform
1	Academic transcript submission	WES/ECE + AADSAS or CAAPID
2	Test Scores	TOEFL/IELTS; NBDE/INBDE if applicable
3	Personal Statement	SOP: career intent + clinical interest
4	LORs	2–3 from professors, dentists, or supervisors
5	Resume / CV	Include clinical, shadowing, and research work
6	CASPer Test	Required by select schools for situational judgment
7	Interviews	Virtual or in-person, case-based and personal
8	Visa & SEVIS Process	Post-admit, usually handled by DSO office

Important for Indian students: The admission requirements for dentistry in USA include completing transcript evaluations and scheduling NBDE or INBDE well in advance due to limited slots and high competition.

Cost of Studying Dentistry in USA

The cost of dentistry courses in USA is among the highest in medical education. International students enrolling in DDS, DMD, or MDS equivalent programs should budget between $90,000 to $120,000 per year (₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore+), including tuition, living expenses, insurance, licensing, and equipment. DDS programs tend to be more expensive than MS specializations or dental hygiene programs. Below is a breakdown of common expenses:

Estimated Cost Breakdown – Dentistry Courses in USA

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Cost (INR)
Tuition (DDS/DMD programs)	$70,000 – $90,000/year	₹58 – ₹75 lakh
Tuition (MDS equivalent / MS programs)	$55,000 – $80,000/year	₹46 – ₹66 lakh
Tuition (Dental Hygiene/Technology)	$35,000 – $60,000/year	₹29 – ₹49 lakh
Living Expenses (city-dependent)	$15,000 – $20,000/year	₹12 – ₹17 lakh
Dental Kits, Equipment & Lab Fees	$3,000 – $6,000	₹2.5 – ₹5 lakh
NBDE/INBDE Exam Fees	$1,000 – $1,800	₹85,000 – ₹1.5 lakh
Health Insurance	$2,000 – $4,000/year	₹1.6 – ₹3.3 lakh
Total Estimated Annual Budget	$90,000 – $120,000	₹75 lakh – ₹1 crore+

Note: These costs vary by program type, state, and public vs private school.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Dentistry Students

Dentistry programs in the USA—especially DDS, DMD, and MDS-equivalent courses—can cost over ₹75 lakh per year. While full-ride scholarships are rare, partial aid covering 20% to 60% of tuition is available through university-funded merit awards, need-based grants, Indian government fellowships, and dental association sponsorships. Some scholarships also include living expenses, lab/equipment fees, or exam costs. Competitive applicants with good academics, dental experience, and early submissions are more likely to secure funding.

University-Based Scholarships for Dentistry Courses in USA

Scholarship Type	Coverage	Typical Value (INR)
Merit Scholarships	Partial tuition waiver	₹10 – ₹30 lakh
Need-Based Grants	Tuition + partial living expenses	₹8 – ₹25 lakh
Diversity & Inclusion Awards	Tuition waiver or fixed stipend	₹5 – ₹20 lakh
Assistantships (for MS programs)	Tuition + stipend (select programs)	₹15 – ₹35 lakh

Government and Public Fellowships (India + US)

Fellowship Name	Provider	Value (INR)
Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowship	Indian Govt. + US	₹20 – ₹35 lakh
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Grant	Indian Foundation	₹18 – ₹26 lakh
National Overseas Scholarship (India)	Indian Govt.	₹30 lakh max
State-Based Education Loans (e.g., SBI)	Indian Banks	Up to ₹50 lakh loan

Private & Industry-Linked Scholarships for Dentistry Students in USA

Organization/Fund	Support Type	Value (INR)
ADA Foundation Scholarships	Tuition + equipment grant	₹5 – ₹15 lakh
Delta Dental Community Care Fund	Fixed scholarship/stipend	₹2 – ₹10 lakh
Colgate-Palmolive Oral Health	Reimbursement awards	₹3 – ₹12 lakh
American Association of Women Dentists	Merit award for female students	₹2 – ₹7 lakh

Career Scope After Studying Dentistry in USA

Dentistry remains one of the highest-paying healthcare careers in the US. After completing DDS or DMD programs, international students can work as general dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, or pursue public health roles. Jobs after DDS programs in USA offer an average starting salary of $120,000–$160,000 (₹1 crore–₹1.3 crore), with potential to cross ₹2 crore in specialist roles. States like California, Texas, and New York show strong hiring demand, especially for licensed dentists and specialists.

Popular Career Paths After Dentistry in USA

Job Role	Average Salary (USD/INR)	Sector
General Dentist	$130,000 (₹1.08 crore)	Clinics, Private Practice
Orthodontist	$210,000 (₹1.75 crore)	Specialty Clinics
Oral Surgeon	$230,000 (₹1.92 crore)	Hospitals, Surgery Centers
Public Health Dentist	$110,000 (₹91 lakh)	Government, NGOs
Academic/Research Dental Faculty	$95,000 (₹78 lakh)	Universities

High-Demand States for Dentists in USA (Post-Licensure)

State	Demand Level	Notes
California	Very High	High salaries, strict licensing
Texas	High	Growing population, strong demand
New York	High	Research hubs, dental colleges
Florida	Medium–High	Large retiree population
Illinois	Medium	Steady demand in urban centers

Dentistry courses in USA, especially DDS programs for international students, lead to stable, well-compensated careers with global portability. Specialization through residencies (e.g., Orthodontics, Periodontics) further boosts salary and long-term growth. Many graduates also pursue H1B sponsorship via hospitals or dental networks post-OPT.

Licensing and Residency Requirements for Dentists in USA

To practice professionally after completing dentistry courses in USA, international students must clear licensing exams and meet state-level requirements. The Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) is mandatory, followed by a clinical exam (such as WREB, ADEX, or CRDTS) depending on the state. For specialization, residency programs like AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry) or GPR (General Practice Residency) are often required. Most licensure pathways take 1–3 years after graduation, depending on the program structure.

Steps for Dental Licensure (Foreign-Trained Dentists)

Step	Requirement/Details	Timeline
INBDE	Mandatory for DDS/DMD and licensure	During program
Clinical Exam (e.g., ADEX)	Hands-on patient or mannequin test	Final year or post-grad
State Licensure Application	Fees, background check, documentation	Post-exams
Residency (AEGD/GPR – Optional)	1–2 years for specializations, hospital-based	After DDS/DMD

Most DDS programs for international students in USA integrate INBDE prep into the curriculum. States like California and New York may have additional forms or interviews as part of the process. Completing licensing ensures eligibility for both private practice and hospital jobs.

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FAQs About Dentistry Courses in USA for International Students

What is the difference between DDS and DMD programs in USA?

Both DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are equivalent degrees. The curriculum, licensing eligibility, and clinical training are the same. The difference lies only in the name, depending on the dental school.

Can I study dentistry in USA after BDS from India?

Yes. BDS graduates must apply for DDS programs for international students in USA, usually through advanced standing programs. These programs are 2–3 years and require NBDE/INBDE scores, TOEFL, and clinical experience.

What is the INBDE and do I need to clear it before applying?

The INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) replaced NBDE Part I and II. Most top dental schools in USA for international students require INBDE clearance before you apply to advanced standing DDS programs.

How long is the DDS program for international students in USA?

The typical duration of dentistry courses in USA for international BDS graduates is 2 to 3 years, depending on the advanced standing program structure.

Are there any dentistry programs without DAT requirement?

Yes. International students applying to advanced standing clinical dentistry programs USA do not need the DAT. DAT is only for 4-year predoctoral applicants, not foreign-trained dentists.

Can I work part-time while studying dentistry in USA?

Yes. On an F-1 visa, you can work up to 20 hours/week on campus. Off-campus work requires CPT or OPT authorization, which is limited during clinical programs.

What is the cost of studying DDS in USA for Indian students?

The cost of studying dentistry in USA for international students is $100,000 to $140,000 (₹83–₹117 lakh) for the entire program, excluding living and licensing fees.

Which are the top USA dental schools accepting international applicants?

Top dental schools in USA for international students include University of Michigan, UCSF, University of Washington, Boston University, and NYU. These have dedicated tracks for foreign-trained dentists.

Are there scholarships for foreign-trained dentists in USA?

Yes, but limited. Some schools offer scholarships for dentistry students in USA based on need or merit. External funding options include ECFMG or Indian government grants like JN Tata.

What are advanced standing programs in USA dental schools?

These are DDS programs designed for foreign-trained dentists. Students enter the second or third year directly and complete the rest of the DDS in 2–3 years. These are the main MDS equivalent in USA.

Can I apply for USA dental residency after DDS or MS?

Yes. After completing DDS or a specialty MS, you can apply for dental residency programs in prosthodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, etc. Most require NBDE/INBDE and TOEFL.

Do USA dental degrees allow practice in other countries?

Yes. A USA dental degree is accepted in countries like Canada, Australia, and the Middle East with local licensing exams. Always check the regulatory body of the target country.

How competitive is admission to DDS for international students?

Very competitive. Acceptance rates are below 10% at most schools. Strong INBDE scores, clinical experience, TOEFL (100+), and USA externships improve chances.

Is dental school in USA worth it for Indian students?

Yes, if you can afford it or secure funding. The scope of dentistry in USA for Indian students is great due to high earning potential, advanced training, and clear licensing paths.

What are the licensing steps after completing dentistry in USA?

After DDS, pass the INBDE, a clinical licensing exam (e.g., WREB or ADEX), and fulfill state dental board requirements. You’ll then be eligible for a USA dental license.

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