26 July 2025
5 minutes read
How to Study Dentistry in USA and Become a Dentist (Top Colleges and Dental Schools for Indian and International Students)?
26 July 2025
5 minutes read
Key Takeaways
- How to study dentistry in USA involves meeting strict admission requirements like the DAT, transcripts, and English proficiency tests for international students.
- How to study dentistry in USA includes choosing top-ranked dental schools like Harvard, UCSF, and UPenn offering DDS or DMD degrees.
- How to study dentistry in USA means preparing for high tuition and living costs, but also accessing world-class training and high-paying career paths.
Pursuing a degree in dentistry in the USA allows for prestigious profession with worldwide recognition, available residencies, and higher potential wages.
For Indian/each global international student, knowing about the requirements to being a dentist in the USA can feel both exhilarating, but also daunting.
Attending the proper dental school, preparing for and taking the Dental Admission Test, and meeting all other admissions requirements are just some steps in advancing a career in the field of dentistry.
Why Aim for a Career in Dentistry?
Did you know that dentistry is consistently ranked among the top 10 best professions in the USA according to the U.S. News & World Report?
A career in dentistry provides:
- High salary and job security
- Flexibility to work independently or in hospitals
- Opportunities in research, teaching, and patient care
| Career Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Salary | Average $163,220/year as per US Bureau of Labor Statistics |
| Work-Life Balance | Flexible hours and independent practice opportunities |
| Job Demand | High demand in general dentistry and pediatric dentistry |
Why Do People Study Dentistry in the USA at Top Universities and Dental Schools?
Fun fact: There are currently 66 dental schools in the United States approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)!
Here’s why international and Indian students pursue dentistry in the USA:
- Exposure to advanced dental education and technology
- Accredited dental programs recognized globally
- High acceptance of Doctor of Dental Surgery and Doctor of Dental Medicine degrees
| Reason | Benefit for Students |
| Advanced Education | Top dental schools offer cutting-edge training |
| Global Recognition | Degrees like DDS and DMD are respected worldwide |
| Clinical Exposure | Extensive clinical hours in US dental programs |
How to Study Dentistry in USA for International Students?
Spoiler alert… Most dental schools require you to have a pre-dental program (in the US) or have a dental degree from another country.
Process for international students:
- You will be admitted to a 2-4 year undergraduate degree in some sciences.
- You will take the Dental-Admission Test (DAT).
- You will work through either the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) or the Associated American Dental Schools Application Service AADSAS).
| Requirement | Description |
| Pre-Dental Program | 2–4 years in subjects like Biology, Chemistry |
| Dental-Admission Test | Mandatory for all dental school applicants |
| Application Platform | ADEA/AADSAS |
Top Colleges and Universities in USA for Indian Students
Did you know Harvard School of Dental Medicine has been a pioneer in dental education since 1867?
Explore the best dentistry schools for Indian students in the USA. These universities offer top-rated dental programs, outstanding faculty, and global recognition:
| Sl. No | University Name | Fee (Annual Avg) | Exams Required | Documents Required |
| 1 | Harvard School of Dental Medicine | $75,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, GPA, LOR, SOP, Resume |
| 2 | University of California, San Francisco | $68,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, GPA, Personal Statement, LOR |
| 3 | University of Pennsylvania | $72,000 | DAT, TOEFL, GRE | Transcript, GPA, SOP, Resume, LOR |
| 4 | University of Michigan | $65,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, GPA, Resume, SOP, ACT |
| 5 | University of the Pacific | $69,000 | DAT, IELTS | Transcript, GPA, SOP, LOR, Resume |
| 6 | Columbia University College of Dental Medicine | $76,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, GPA, SOP, LOR |
| 7 | New York University College of Dentistry | $70,000 | DAT, TOEFL | SOP, GPA, Transcript, Resume |
| 8 | UCLA School of Dentistry | $67,000 | DAT, TOEFL | SOP, Transcript, GPA, Resume |
| 9 | Boston University Henry M. Goldman School | $71,000 | DAT, TOEFL, GRE | Transcript, GPA, LOR, SOP, Resume |
| 10 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $63,000 | DAT, TOEFL | SOP, Resume, Transcript, LOR |
| 11 | University of Southern California | $74,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, GPA, SOP |
| 12 | University of Illinois at Chicago | $62,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, SOP, Resume |
| 13 | University of Washington | $64,000 | DAT, TOEFL | Resume, SOP, GPA, LOR |
| 14 | University of Florida | $60,000 | DAT, TOEFL, ACT | Transcript, SOP, LOR, Resume |
| 15 | Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine | $72,500 | DAT, TOEFL | Transcript, SOP, LOR |
What are the Different Dental Specialties
Fun fact: There are 12 officially recognized dental specialties by the American Dental Association!
Key dental specialties include:
- Pediatric Dentistry – Deals with children’s oral health
- Orthodontics – Corrects teeth alignment and bite
- Periodontics – Focuses on gum diseases
| Specialty | Description |
| Pediatric-Dentistry | Oral care for children and teens |
| Orthodontics | Aligning teeth using braces or devices |
| Periodontics | Treating gum-related diseases |
Admission Requirements: What is the Dental Admission Test?
Here’s a twist: The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is required even before you apply to most dental schools in the United States.
Key aspects of the DAT:
- Conducted by the American Dental-Association
- Tests natural sciences, perceptual ability, and reading comprehension
- Valid for 2 years
| Section | Topics Covered |
| Natural Sciences | Biology, General & Organic Chemistry |
| Perceptual Ability | Spatial reasoning and interpretation |
| Reading Comprehension | English reading skills |
What is the Cost of Studying Dentistry in USA (Fees to Apply and Study and Cost of Living)?
Did you know: Dentistry is one of the most highly invested degrees in the United States!
Cost Summary:
- Tuition fees ($60,000 to $80,000 per year)
- Living expenses for international dental students ($15,000–$20,000/year)
- Additional application costs (DAT fee, transcript evaluation, and such).
| Item | Cost (Average) |
| Tuition Fees | $65,000–$75,000/year |
| Living Expenses | $18,000/year |
| Application & Exams | $500–$1000 |
Why Become a Dentist in the USA After Your Dentistry Degree in the USA?
Fun fact: The USA offers one of the most rewarding working environments for dentists in the world.
Benefits include:
- High demand for dentists in the United States
- Access to best dental clinics, hospitals, and private practices
- Strong network with the American Dental-Association
| Reason | Benefit |
| Job Demand | Career in the USA is very stable |
| Earning Potential | Salary for dentists can cross $200K |
| Practice Opportunities | Open your own clinic or join hospitals |
What is the Salary of a Dentist in the US After Pursuing Dentistry There?
Interesting to note: A dentist’s average salary in the United States is three times higher than other developed countries.
Here’s what to expect:
- Entry-level dentist salary: $120,000-$150,000
- Mid-career dentist salary: $170,000 – $190,000
- Experienced dentist salary: $200,000+
| Experience Level | Salary Range |
| Entry-Level | $120,000–$150,000 |
| Mid-Level | $170,000–$190,000 |
| Senior Level | $200,000+ |
Is It a Good Idea to Practice Dentistry in the USA?
Fun fact: The US is ranked #1 globally for dental innovation and patient care technology.
Advantages:
- World-class infrastructure in dentistry
- Access to diverse patient populations
- Opportunities for growth in research, private practice, and hospital dentistry
| Benefit | Reason |
| Cutting-edge Technology | USA provides best dental tools and tech |
| Career Opportunities | USA offers diverse work environments |
| Cultural Exposure | Treat international patients and learn more |
Conclusion
Becoming a dentist in the USA is an exciting, life-changing opportunity that can lead to a career that is both satisfying and economically rewarding.
There are many things you will need to do as you prepare to study dentistry in the USA; from choosing a well-respected university, Understanding the admission requirements, choosing your dental specialty and preparing for the Dental-Admission Test, the adventure of dentistry is exciting!
If you wish to make an appointment for a free personal consultation, book your appointment with Ambitio to gain expert advice towards studying dentistry in the USA today!
FAQs
How to study dentistry in USA after completing school in India?
Understanding how to study dentistry in USA after school means enrolling in a U.S. undergraduate science program or qualifying through an advanced standing program for international dentists.
How to study dentistry in USA without a pre-dental degree?
If you’re wondering how to study dentistry in USA without a pre-dental degree, you must still complete prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics from a U.S.-accredited institution.
How to study dentistry in USA and get a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree?
Learning how to study dentistry in USA for a DDS involves clearing the DAT, applying through AADSAS, and gaining admission to a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association.
How to study dentistry in USA as an international student?
Understanding how to study dentistry in USA as an international student requires strong English scores (IELTS/TOEFL), visa compliance, and fulfilling documentation such as transcripts and SOPs.
How to study dentistry in USA with financial aid or scholarships?
To know how to study dentistry in USA with aid, apply early to universities offering merit-based scholarships or need-based grants for international students in dental programs.
How to study dentistry in USA and specialize in a field like orthodontics or pediatric dentistry?
Knowing how to study dentistry in USA for a specialty means first completing a general DDS or DMD degree, followed by an accredited residency in your chosen dental field.
How to study dentistry in USA and practice as a licensed dentist?
If you’re exploring how to study dentistry in USA and become a licensed dentist, you must pass the INBDE, complete your dental program, and meet state-specific licensing criteria.
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