Study BDS Abroad: Top Countries, Eligibility, Admission, Fees & Career Opportunities
Pursuing BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) abroad is a dream come true for many students who aspire to build a global career in dentistry. Studying dental courses overseas not only provides high-quality education and modern facilities but also opens doors to international job opportunities, higher salaries, and clinical exposure to diverse patient cases.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything about studying BDS abroad — top countries, eligibility, admission process, costs, and future prospects.
Why Study BDS Abroad?
🌍 Global Recognition
Degrees from reputed foreign universities are recognized worldwide and often offer better job mobility across countries.
🧠 Advanced Curriculum
International dental schools offer modern and research-oriented training with access to cutting-edge equipment and techniques.
🌟 High ROI (Return on Investment)
Although the fees are higher, international BDS graduates often earn substantially more after gaining licensure.
💼 Migration & PR Opportunities
In countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, dentists are on the skilled occupation list, making it easier to settle.
Top Countries for BDS / Dental Courses Abroad
| Country | Course Name | Course Duration | Licensing Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | DDS/DMD | 4 years (after pre-dental) | NBDE/INBDE, state license |
| UK | BDS | 5 years | GDC registration |
| Canada | DDS | 4 years (after qualifying) | NDEB Equivalency |
| Australia | BDS / BDSc | 5 years | ADC Exams, AHPRA |
| New Zealand | BDS | 5 years | Dental Council NZ |
| Germany | Zahnmedizin | 5-6 years | German proficiency, license |
| Russia | Stomatology | 5 years | English medium, MCI/NMC test for India |
Note: In many countries, the term “BDS” may not be used — it’s often called DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry), but they are equivalent in practice.
Eligibility Criteria for BDS Abroad
While specific requirements vary by country and university, general eligibility includes:
- Educational Background: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB)
- Minimum Marks: 60–70% aggregate in PCB
- Age Requirement: Minimum 17 years
- English Proficiency:
- IELTS: 6.5+
- TOEFL: 80+
- Entrance Exams (if any):
- USA: DAT (Dental Admission Test)
- UK: UCAT/BMAT
- Canada: CASPer + Pre-requisite Bachelor’s degree
- Australia: UCAT/ISAT
Admission Process for BDS Abroad
Step 1: Research & Shortlist Universities
Choose based on budget, location, curriculum, language, and career goals.
Step 2: Take Entrance Exams (if required)
Prepare and appear for required tests like IELTS, DAT, UCAT, etc.
Step 3: Apply to Universities
Prepare documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
- English test scores
Step 4: Offer Letter & Visa
Receive admission offer, pay tuition deposit, and apply for a student visa.
Step 5: Fly & Begin Studies
Travel to your chosen country and start your BDS journey.
Duration of BDS Abroad
- Direct BDS Programs: 5 to 6 years (e.g., UK, Australia, Russia)
- DDS Programs (USA/Canada): 2–4 years post-bachelor’s degree + exams
Cost of Studying BDS Abroad
| Country | Annual Tuition Fees | Living Costs/Year |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $50,000 – $80,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| UK | £30,000 – £45,000 | £10,000 – £15,000 |
| Canada | CAD 45,000 – 80,000 | CAD 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Australia | AUD 50,000 – 70,000 | AUD 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Russia | ₹3 – ₹6 Lakhs | ₹1.5 – ₹3 Lakhs |
| Germany | Low or Free (Public Univ) | €8,000 – €10,000 |
Tip: Scholarships, education loans, and part-time work can help manage costs.
Exams & Licensing After BDS Abroad
To practice in your home country or the country of study, you must qualify for licensing exams:
🇮🇳 Returning to India?
- Appear for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or NExT (upcoming)
- Register with State Dental Council
🇺🇸 Practice in USA
- Pass NBDE / INBDE
- Apply for state licensing
🇬🇧 Work in UK
- Register with GDC (General Dental Council)
- Language test + clinical assessment if not from EEA
🇦🇺 Work in Australia
- Pass ADC Exams
- Register with AHPRA
Best Universities for BDS/DDS Abroad
🏫 Top-Ranked Dental Schools
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine (USA)
- King’s College London (UK)
- University of Melbourne (Australia)
- University of Toronto (Canada)
- Moscow State Medical University (Russia)
- Ludwig Maximilian University (Germany)
Career Opportunities After BDS Abroad
- General Dentist
- Orthodontist / Prosthodontist (after PG)
- Dental Surgeon
- Cosmetic/Aesthetic Dentistry
- Public Health Dentistry
- Research & Development
- Dental Consultant for Global Health Projects
- Academic & Teaching Roles
Final Thoughts
Studying BDS abroad is a gateway to a globally respected profession in dentistry. With excellent clinical training, international exposure, and access to advanced technology, it’s an investment that pays off in terms of skill development, career options, and long-term earnings.
Whether you want to practice globally or return to India as a foreign-qualified dentist, a BDS degree from a top international university is a strong foundation for a bright future in healthcare.