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Study Master's in Dentistry in USA for International Students

Pursuing a Master’s in Dentistry in USA gives Indian dental graduates access to advanced clinical training, research opportunities, and globally recognized credentials. While DDS is required for clinical licensure, universities also offer MS and MSD degrees focused on specializations like orthodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics. Though tuition is ₹70–₹100 lakhs, licensed DDS graduates earn over ₹1.5 crore annually in the US.

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Quick Overview – Master's in Dentistry in USA

Feature

Details

Program Types

MS, MSD, MDS-equivalent

Duration

2 to 3 years

Entrance Exams

NBDE/INBDE, TOEFL

Tuition Fees

$50,000–$90,000/year (₹42–75 lakhs)

Top Schools

Michigan, UCSF, Harvard, Penn

Specializations

Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Public Health Dentistry

Scope

Research, teaching, hospital-based roles

Top Colleges for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

The USA dominates the global rankings for dental education—with 14 universities in the top 50 globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Dentistry). These colleges offer clinical, research, and specialty tracks for international students. Most programs offer MDS-equivalent training through DDS or MS options, and many are located in major healthcare hubs.

Best Universities for Master’s in Dentistry in USA – Rankings & Tuition Fees

University Name

Global Rank (QS 2025)

Approx. Annual Tuition (USD & INR)

University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

1

$82,000 ≈ ₹68 lakh

University of California, San Francisco

6

$80,000 ≈ ₹66.5 lakh

Harvard University

10

$79,000 ≈ ₹65.6 lakh

University of Pennsylvania

16

$83,000 ≈ ₹69 lakh

UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles)

17

$75,000 ≈ ₹62.3 lakh

University of Washington

19

$74,000 ≈ ₹61.4 lakh

UNC Chapel Hill

21

$73,000 ≈ ₹60.5 lakh

Tufts University

22

$85,000 ≈ ₹70.9 lakh

NYU (New York University)

23

$89,000 ≈ ₹74.3 lakh

Columbia University

37

$84,000 ≈ ₹70 lakh

University of Iowa

38

$70,000 ≈ ₹58 lakh

University at Buffalo (SUNY)

39

$60,000 ≈ ₹49.8 lakh

The Ohio State University

42

$68,000 ≈ ₹56.4 lakh

Boston University

45

$86,000 ≈ ₹71.7 lakh

Planning to Study Dentistry in USA? Start Here
 Guide to Master’s in Dentistry in USA
 Study Medicine in USA – Full Guide

 

For High-Achievers Aiming for Top Schools
 How to Get Into Ivy League Colleges from India

 

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 Intakes for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

Most Master’s in Dentistry programs in USA begin in the Fall semester (August/September), which is the primary intake for both clinical and academic dental tracks. Some public health and research-based dentistry courses also offer Spring intake (January), but fewer universities do so. International applicants, especially from India, should plan ahead due to portfolio review, visa timelines, and NBDE/INBDE scheduling.

Master’s in Dentistry USA Intake Months and Deadlines

Intake Season

Application Period

Typical Deadlines

Fall Intake

September to February (previous year)

December to March

Spring Intake

May to August (limited programs)

August to October

DDS/CAAPID Intake

January to June (centralized)

February to June

Most DDS Advanced Standing programs (for BDS graduates from India) use CAAPID and follow their own rolling deadlines.

Scholarship and Assistantship Application Timeline

  • University scholarships: Apply along with your main application; decisions are tied to admission offers.
  • Research assistantships (MS in Oral Biology, Dental Public Health): Apply in early rounds—December to January.
  • Indian government or private funding: Plan submissions between January and March.

Intake Planning Tips for Indian Dental Students

  • Fall intake offers maximum options for MDS equivalent and DDS programs.
  • TOEFL/IELTS is mandatory. GRE is not required for most ECE or dentistry-related programs.
  • Submit NBDE/INBDE scores early (if applicable) to be eligible for DDS or clinical specialization pathways.

Early application improves chances of admission, financial aid, and timely visa approval. Most Indian students apply 9–12 months before the desired intake.

Visa and Intake Preparation
 USA Study Visa Requirements
 Student Visa for USA – Step-by-Step
 Spring Intake in USA – Timeline

Curriculum for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

Master’s in Dentistry programs in USA vary by track—DDS Advanced Standing, MS in Dental Sciences, and public health-focused dental degrees. Clinical programs focus on licensure readiness (NBDE/INBDE), while research-oriented ones prepare students for academia or global health careers. Course structures are rigorous and aligned with USA dental board expectations.

DDS Advanced Standing Curriculum – MDS Equivalent Programs in USA

This is the most common route for BDS graduates from India to gain USA licensure.

Course Component

Focus Areas

Preclinical Training

Restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, dental materials

Clinical Rotations

Operative, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery

NBDE/INBDE Prep Modules

USA dental jurisprudence, patient management, ethics

Communication & Case Documentation

SOAP notes, insurance coding, patient consults

Public Health & Practice Readiness

Insurance systems, infection control, law

Duration: 2–3 years
Average Fees: $85,000–$120,000/year (₹71–100 lakhs/year approx)

MS in Dental Sciences or Oral Biology – Research-Focused Dentistry in USA

Ideal for those interested in non-clinical academic careers, research labs, or biotech roles.

Course Modules

Topics Covered

Molecular & Cell Biology

Oral microbiome, tissue regeneration, craniofacial biology

Research Methodology

Grant writing, study design, statistical analysis

Specialization Areas

Biomaterials, immunology, dental pharmacology

Thesis/Dissertation

Research project under supervision with oral defense

Duration: 2 years
Tuition: $30,000–$50,000/year (₹25–42 lakhs/year approx)

Master’s in Public Health – Dental Emphasis

Offered at universities like Harvard and Boston University, this program blends public health with dentistry.

Core Focus

Modules

Epidemiology

Oral disease surveillance, dental care access analysis

Health Policy

Medicaid/Medicare systems, global oral health policy

Program Management

Community dental programs, funding, and outreach campaigns

Ideal for those pursuing policy, NGO, or global health leadership roles.
Cost: $45,000–$60,000/year (₹38–50 lakhs/year approx)

Compare Dentistry with General Medical Education Abroad
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Eligibility Criteria for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

Admission to a Master’s in Dentistry in USA—whether DDS, MS, or MPH (dental)—depends on your academic background, English proficiency, licensing goals, and program type. Indian BDS graduates must meet strict credentialing and exam benchmarks before qualifying for clinical programs like DDS.

Basic Requirements – Master’s in Dentistry for Indian Students

Requirement

Details

Academic Qualification

4-year BDS degree from DCI-approved institution

Credential Evaluation

ECE or WES report with GPA equivalency (min. 2.75–3.0 preferred)

English Language Proficiency

TOEFL iBT (minimum 100) or IELTS (7.0+); scores valid for 2 years

NBDE/INBDE Exams

Mandatory for DDS Advanced Standing programs

Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

2–3 LORs from professors/clinical supervisors

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Specific to career goals and clinical/research interests

Resume/CV

Highlight internships, dental observerships, research (if any)

Criteria for DDS Advanced Standing Programs in USA

Requirement

Details

Clinical Experience

Most programs require 1–2 years of dental practice or internships

Bench Test (Preclinical Assessment)

Conducted during interviews at many top dental schools

Interview Round

Focuses on communication skills, ethics, and clinical readiness

NBDE Part I/II or INBDE

Must be cleared before application or by interview stage

Eligibility for Non-Clinical Master’s (MS, MPH) in Dentistry in USA

Requirement

Details

NBDE Not Mandatory

For non-clinical research/public health programs

GRE (if required)

Some universities ask for GRE for MS/MPH programs

Dental Research Background

Beneficial for MS/PhD in Oral Biology, Periodontology, etc.

Tip: If you're unsure about your NBDE eligibility or clinical path, consider starting with an MPH or MS in Oral Health Sciences and then transitioning into DDS or further clinical training.

Research Top Dental & Medical Schools in USA
 Top Medical Colleges in USA

Want to Understand Costs Better?
 Cost of MBBS in USA – Explained
 Scholarships for MBBS in USA

Entrance Exams for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

Indian BDS graduates must clear specific exams based on the type of dentistry program they pursue in the US. Clinical paths like DDS require NBDE/INBDE, while non-clinical MS/MPH programs may ask for GRE and TOEFL/IELTS. These exams evaluate both academic and communication readiness.

INBDE – For DDS and Clinical Dentistry Programs in USA

Exam

Details

Full Form

Integrated National Board Dental Examination

Eligibility

Completion of BDS + credential evaluation (ECE/WES)

Content

Biomedical sciences + clinical dental knowledge

Mode & Duration

Computer-based; 2-day exam

Fee (2025)

$915 (Approx ₹76,000)

Validity

5 years from date of result

Note: INBDE replaced NBDE Part I and II in most USA dental schools from 2022.

TOEFL/IELTS – Mandatory English Proficiency Test

Exam

Minimum Score for Dental Schools

Fee (2025)

TOEFL iBT

100+

$210 (₹17,500)

IELTS

7.0+ (overall), 6.5+ in each band

₹16,500

These scores are essential for all international applicants, regardless of program type.

GRE – Required for Research-Oriented or Public Health Programs

Program Type

GRE Requirement

MS in Oral Biology / Biomaterials

Often required (Verbal, Quantitative, AWA)

MPH in Dental Public Health

Required at most public health schools

DDS Advanced Standing

GRE not required

Other Tests – CPR, Bench, and Technical Exams

Some DDS programs also include:

  • Bench Test: Preclinical skills test using mannequins.
  • Technical Assessment: Evaluation of wax carving, tooth prep, etc.
  • CPR Certification: Required before clinical training begins.

Career Scope & Salaries After Dentistry
 Dentist Salary in USA – What to Expect

Test Scores & Eligibility Questions?
 What Exams Are Required to Study in USA
 5.5 IELTS Score Accepting Universities in USA
 GRE Exam – Section-Wise Breakdown

Application Process for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

The application process for a Master’s in Dentistry in USA depends on whether you're applying for a clinical DDS or a non-clinical MS/MSc/MPH program. Indian students must follow credential evaluation, meet academic/exam requirements, and apply through university or centralized portals like ADEA CAAPID for DDS.

Application Steps for Clinical Dentistry (DDS/Advanced Standing)

Step

Details

Credential Evaluation

Use ECE or WES to convert BDS scores to USA equivalent (₹15,000–₹20,000)

INBDE Completion

Submit scores through ADA (mandatory for most DDS programs)

Apply via ADEA CAAPID

Centralized portal for international dentist applications

SOP and LORs

Focus on clinical experience, patient care, and academic background

Bench Test + Interview

Shortlisted candidates invited for practical skills and interview rounds

English Test (TOEFL/IELTS)

Compulsory – scores must be sent directly to schools

Application Fee

$75–$125 per university (₹6,200–₹10,400)

Some schools may ask for CPR certification or technical exam scores during or post-application.

Application Process for Master’s in Dental Sciences (MS, MPH, etc.)

Step

Details

University Shortlisting

Choose based on specialization—Oral Biology, Public Health, Prosthodontics, etc.

GRE/TOEFL Requirement

GRE required for MS/MPH; TOEFL/IELTS is mandatory

Credential Evaluation

Use WES/ECE for academic transcripts (₹15,000–₹20,000)

SOP and Resume

Emphasize research, academic record, and public health goals

Letters of Recommendation

Usually 2–3 from professors/clinical supervisors

Direct University Application

Apply via individual portals, not through CAAPID

Interview (if required)

Mostly for research-based programs or funded seats

Application Fee

$60–$110 per program (₹5,000–₹9,200)

Document Checklist for Dentistry Applications USA

  • BDS Degree + Transcripts (WES/ECE)
  • INBDE Score Report (for DDS)
  • TOEFL/IELTS Score Report
  • GRE Score Report (for MS/MPH)
  • SOP + Resume
  • 2–3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Clinical Experience Proof (for DDS)
  • Passport Copy + ID Proof
  • Application Fee Payment Receipts

Tip: Start the application process at least 10–12 months before your target intake (usually Fall). Most DDS deadlines close by January, while MS programs may extend into March–April.

 

Understand USA System Before You Apply
 Education System in USA
 Why Study in USA?

Cost of Studying Master's in Dentistry in USA

The cost of studying for a Master’s in Dentistry in USA varies by program type. Clinical programs like DDS are significantly more expensive than non-clinical MS or MPH programs. Indian students should budget for tuition, living expenses, exam fees, and health insurance. Total expenses typically range from ₹50 lakhs to ₹1.2 crore.

Estimated Total Cost for Indian Students Studying Master's in Dentistry in USA

  • DDS: ₹1.1–₹1.5 crore
  • MS in Oral Biology: ₹50–₹75 lakhs
  • MPH Dental: ₹45–₹65 lakhs

Tuition Fees for Dentistry Programs in USA

Program Type

Average Annual Tuition (USD)

Approx. Cost in INR (₹)

DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)

$70,000 – $95,000

₹58 – ₹79 lakhs (total for 2–3 years)

MS in Dental Sciences/Public Health

$30,000 – $55,000

₹25 – ₹45 lakhs (total for 1.5–2 years)

MPH in Oral Health/Dental Public Health

$28,000 – $40,000

₹23 – ₹33 lakhs

DDS programs are considered professional doctorates and include lab, clinic, and exam fees—pushing up the total cost.

Cost of Living for Dental Students in USA

Expense Category

Monthly Estimate (USD)

Yearly Estimate in INR (₹)

Housing

$900 – $1,500

₹9 – ₹15 lakhs

Food + Utilities

$300 – $600

₹3 – ₹6 lakhs

Health Insurance

$1,200 – $2,000/year

₹1 – ₹1.6 lakhs

Transport

$80 – $150

₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakhs

Personal + Academic

$100 – $250

₹1 – ₹2 lakhs

Total (Yearly)

—

₹15 – ₹25 lakhs

Costs vary depending on the city (higher in New York, LA, Boston; lower in Midwest/South).

Other Mandatory Costs for Dentistry Applicants

Requirement

Estimated Cost (USD)

INR Equivalent (₹)

INBDE Exam (for DDS)

$1,000 – $1,200

₹83,000 – ₹1 lakh

Credential Evaluation (ECE/WES)

$160 – $200

₹13,000 – ₹17,000

Application Fee (per university)

$75 – $125

₹6,200 – ₹10,400

Visa (F-1) + SEVIS Fee

$510

₹42,000

Flights + Initial Setup

$1,500 – $2,000

₹1.25 – ₹1.65 lakhs

Fees, Living, and Financial Planning
 Master’s in USA – Full Cost Guide
 Cost of Living in USA

Scholarships and Sponsorships for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

Several scholarships, assistantships, and sponsorships are available for Indian students pursuing a Master’s in Dentistry in USA, including MDS-equivalent programs like MS in Oral Health or DDS conversion tracks. 

These scholarships can make a significant difference in the cost of studying dentistry in USA. Apply early and tailor your applications to funding-friendly programs, especially MS and public health tracks which offer more aid than DDS.

University Scholarships for Master’s in Dentistry in USA

University

Scholarship/Funding

Amount (INR Approx.)

NYU College of Dentistry

Global Health Scholar Award

₹10–15 lakhs

University of Michigan

Rackham Fellowship

₹16–24 lakhs

USC School of Dentistry

International Student Grant

₹20–40 lakhs (tuition aid)

Boston University (Goldman School)

Merit Scholarships

₹8–20 lakhs

Indian Government & Private Scholarships for Dentistry in USA

Provider

Scholarship Name

Funding Support

National Overseas Scholarship

Govt. of India

Full tuition + living (₹25+ lakhs)

JN Tata Endowment

Tata Trust

₹1–10 lakhs (loan-grant mix)

Aga Khan Foundation

International Scholarship

50% grant, 50% loan (₹20–25 lakhs)

Assistantships and Campus Work Options (Non-Clinical Tracks)

Type

Support Offered

Monthly INR Value

Research Assistantship

Tuition waiver + stipend

₹1.1–1.5 lakhs

Teaching Assistantship

Partial tuition + stipend

₹90k–1.3 lakhs

On-Campus Jobs

Hourly wage (20 hrs/week allowed)

₹1,000–1,400/hour

Scholarship and University Selection Help
 Scholarships for MS in USA
 Fully Funded Scholarships – USA
 Public Universities in USA
 Explore All USA Universities

Career Scope After Master’s in Dentistry in USA

A Master’s in Dentistry in USA can lead to clinical and non-clinical roles with salaries ranging from ₹40 lakhs to over ₹1.8 crore per year, depending on specialization, licensing status, and role type. International students typically pursue DDS or MS programs, followed by exams like NBDE for clinical practice or enter research, teaching, or healthcare policy directly.

Job Roles After Dentistry Master’s in USA for International Students

Job Role

Eligibility/Pathway

Avg Annual Salary (INR)

General Dentist (post-DDS + NBDE)

DDS + Licensure Exams + Residency

₹1.3–1.8 crore ($160k–$220k)

Dental Research Scientist

MS/PhD in Oral Health Sciences

₹66–95 lakhs ($80k–$115k)

Dental Public Health Analyst

MPH + Dental Master’s

₹50–75 lakhs ($60k–$90k)

Academic Faculty (Dental School)

MS/DDS + Research or Teaching Experience

₹45–70 lakhs ($55k–$85k)

Dental Lab/Tech Product Manager

MS in Prosthodontics/Dental Materials

₹40–65 lakhs ($50k–$78k)

Best Specializations in Dentistry for Career Growth in USA

  • Orthodontics – High demand, long residency, private practice potential
  • Prosthodontics – Growing with aging population, overlaps with lab tech
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery – Top-paying, requires MD+DDS dual training
  • Public Health Dentistry – Easier licensure path, good for international students
  • Pediatric Dentistry – High demand in urban and suburban areas

Industry Demand and Hiring Trends for Dentists in USA

  • Private Practices: Highest absorption of licensed DDS graduates
  • Academic Institutions: Hiring MS/PhD for teaching & research roles
  • Hospitals & Clinics: Oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and public health experts
  • Health Tech & Pharma: Growing need for dental advisors in AI/dental devices
  • Government Bodies (CDC, NIH): Opportunities for research and dental policy roles

Clinical Licensure Path for Indian Students

BDS → INBDE → CAAPID → DDS (2–3 years) → Residency (if needed) → Licensure Exam → State License

Quick Note on Work Visa & Licensing Path

  • For clinical roles: F-1 to OPT → NBDE → DDS → Licensure → H-1B/Green Card
  • For non-clinical roles: OPT directly usable post-MS, especially in research and academia

Free upGrad Courses for Dentistry & Healthcare Aspirants
From shortlisting colleges to SOP prep — get expert insights to plan your MS Dentistry path.
 Start Learning – Free Courses

 

Need Help with Your Dentistry Application in USA?
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39 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
View details

Pediatric Dentistry Graduate Program (MS)

University of Michigan, USA

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

Advanced Dental Therapy (MS)

Minnesota State University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Dentistry (Pediatric Dentistry)

University of Washington, USA

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

Master of Science in Dental Hygiene

University of Minnesota, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 30.92L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Dental Hygiene (M.S.)

Old Dominion University , USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 23.73L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Orthodontics Advanced Certificate

University at Buffalo, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 30.21L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Pediatric Dentistry , MSD

University of Louisville, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 21.43L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Periodontics, M.S. in Dentistry

Saint Louis University, USA

  • DURATION
    3 Years 6 Months
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

M.S. in Dentistry

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

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Oral Health Sciences, M.S.

Temple University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Science in Oral & Craniofacial Sciences

University of Missouri - Kansas City, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 56.02L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUN 2025
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MSD - Orthodontics

University of the Pacific, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years 2 Months
  • FEES
    INR 100.16L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUL 2025
View details

Predentistry

Harding University, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 17.39L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
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