Dentistry in the UK generally lasts five to six years and is challenging at both an academic and technical level. Top Universities across the UK offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma courses in this field.
During the tenure, students learn the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral ailments and afflictions. An international student, after studying Dentistry in UK, can earn an average of INR 31 lakhs (27K GBP) annually.
Top Universities & Colleges For Dentistry in the UK
Let’s take a look at the following table to understand the Top 10 Universities in the UK for Dentistry.
| University | QS World Ranking for Dentistry 2025 |
|---|---|
| King’s College London | =4 |
| Queen Mary University London | 15 |
| University of Birmingham | =23 |
| University College London | =32 |
| Cardiff University | =50 |
| University of Dundee | 51-120 |
| Newcastle University | 51-120 |
| University of Manchester | 51-120 |
| University of Sheffield | 51-120 |
| University of Leeds | 51-120 |
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Now let's understand each of them in detail
1. King’s College London (QS Rank: =4)
The Dentistry BDS course by King’s College is a research-led programme with a faculty having a high level of clinical experience in all areas. It is one of the largest dental schools in the UK, with 150 students graduating every year, that offers a five-year BDS program combining evidence-based learning with early clinical exposure.
Dentistry at King’s College London is ranked =4 in the 2025 QS World Rankings in the UK. King’s offers an elective program for visiting dentistry students, providing two-week placements with fixed starting dates throughout the year. These placements give exposure to various clinical settings, although students are responsible for their own accommodation and expenses.
2. Queen Mary University of London (QS Rank: 15)
The BDS program is delivered at the Institute of Dentistry, located within The Royal London Dental Hospital, offering access to modern facilities and a diverse patient population.
Queen Mary emphasises research-led teaching, with its dentistry research ranked 18th globally for citations. Clinical practice is integral, especially in the third and fourth years, ensuring students gain hands-on experience.
3. University of Birmingham (QS Rank: =23)
The University of Birmingham’s School of Dentistry is a hub for leading professionals and students seeking to engage in world-class research and make a meaningful impact. The school admits over 130 students annually and is a thriving place to research and grow.
Their BDS in Dental Surgery links the underpinning theory with practical clinical experience at all stages. That is why it’s a sought-after, fully integrated course in Dentistry.
The school is ranked =23 in the world by QS World Rankings 2025. Clinical placements are embedded within the program, allowing students to gain experience in various dental settings.
4. University College London (QS Rank: 32)
UCL's Eastman Dental Institute is renowned for its postgraduate dental education and research. The UCL is ranked =32 in the world by QS World Rankings 2025. The institute offers a range of specialised programs focusing on advanced dental training. Placement opportunities are integrated into postgraduate programs, providing students with exposure to specialised clinical environments.
5. Cardiff University (QS Rank: 34)
Cardiff University’s Dental School is the only one in Wales that provides unique and vital leadership in Dentistry. Their postgraduate courses are delivered by internationally recognised research academics and clinicians.
They provide a supportive and friendly environment that allows students to grow. Cardiff University is ranked in the top five universities in the UK for dentistry.
In the fourth and fifth years, students undertake placements in primary care settings across Wales and England, including community dental practices and district general hospitals.
6. University of Dundee (QS Rank: 50)
This one is a public research university is known for its Dentistry BDS course. Students of Dundee develop skills and knowledge across various dental disciplines. Moreover, they learn to operate on patients in the University’s own dental hospital. Their curriculum encourages individuals to learn creatively and interactively.
Students also get the chance to participate in research projects as part of summer internship programs in this course. Clinical placements are a core component of the program, ensuring students gain practical experience in various dental settings.
7. Newcastle University (QS Rank: 51-120)
Program Highlights:
Newcastle's School of Dental Sciences offers a comprehensive BDS program emphasising clinical experience and patient-centred care. The curriculum is designed to integrate scientific knowledge with practical skills. Students participate in clinical placements throughout the program, gaining experience in a variety of dental environments.
8. University of Manchester (QS Rank: 51 - 120)
The University of Manchester offers a BDS Dentistry course that is the first step for individuals towards a career in dentistry. It is a five-year course that combines the study of basic and advanced dental sciences with substantial clinical knowledge and experience. The current University rank in the QS World University Rankings 2025 for Dentistry is between 51-120.
9. University of Sheffield (QS Rank: 51-120)
Sheffield's BDS program includes early clinical exposure and a strong emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. Students are trained in modern facilities and are encouraged to develop a patient-centred approach.
In the fourth and fifth years, students participate in outreach placements in general dental practices and community dental clinics in Sheffield and surrounding areas. These placements provide real-world experience and the opportunity to work as part of a dental team.
10. University of Leeds (QS Rank: 51-120)
Leeds offers an MSc program that integrates scientific knowledge with clinical practice, aiming to produce competent and compassionate dental professionals. Students have access to cutting-edge facilities and a curriculum that emphasises lifelong learning.
Outreach placements are arranged for dental surgery students in years 4 and 5, located in Bradford, Hull, and Leeds.
Eligibility/Entry Requirements For Dentistry Courses UK
While different dental schools have varying admission requirements for dentistry, here are some of the usual eligibility criteria pointers in the United Kingdom for dentistry.
- English Language Proficiency Requirements: An IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no lower than 6.5 in any component.
- Typical A-Level requirements: AAA including biology and chemistry
- International Baccalaureate requirements: A condition of 37 points.
Dentistry Courses UK Admission Process
In order to study dentistry in the UK, individuals need to take admission tests as part of the admission process. Nearly all dental schools in countries like the UK and Australia use these tests. Most institutes use UCAT or University Clinical Aptitude Test.
It is a computer-based online test to evaluate the quantitative, verbal, reasoning, and cognitive abilities, amongst other skills of applicants. Individuals can take this test at their local test centres.
In addition to the eligibility criteria mentioned above, UCAT scores and a statement of purpose should also be included in the application over email. The selected students then get called for an in-person or virtual interview by institutes.
Upon receiving the admission letter, individuals can either accept or deny it. If an individual decides to accept the offer, they can move ahead with the visa application.
Curious about when to apply? Read more: Intakes in the UK
Dentistry Courses in UK Fees
The average tuition fee for international students (including EU students) is INR 31 Lakh, (27K GBP) for the first year of study. On the other hand, the average annual tuition fee for MDS in England is 23,500 pounds. Read on to know some of the best universities offering full-time dentistry courses in the UK for higher education.
Want to know what dentists earn after graduation? Read more: Dentist Salary in the UK
Conclusion
If you’re looking to pursue a degree in Dentistry in the UK, having superior academic grades, perseverance, and mental skills is essential. Now that you know evrything about dentistry, it's time that you take this crucial step to stay ahead of everyone else, get a quick profile evaluation and support from the expert counsellors from Leap Scholar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years does it take to become a dentist in the UK?
Ans. Becoming a dentist in the UK takes at least four to five years of study, along with one or two years of supervised practice. All in all, it takes around six years to become a dentist in the UK.
Is Dentistry in the UK hard to get into in 2023?
Ans. Dentistry is one of the most competitive fields to get into the UK. That is why applicants require excellent academic grades, mental skills to concentrate over long periods, and the commitment to finish a long duration course at dentistry universities.
How much do dentists make in the UK?
Ans. The average annual salary of dentistry graduates in the UK is 50,000-60,000 pounds.
Is there a demand for dentists in the UK?
Ans. In 2020, the UK had roughly 41,350 dental practitioners. That is why there was a significant burden on the UK healthcare system. Presently, there is a shortage of dentists in the country, creating immense demand in the field.
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