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27 August 2025

6 minutes read

Dentistry Higher Studies in USA After BDS: 10 Universities to Pursue DDS in USA After BDS in India

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

5 November 2024

6 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Higher studies in USA after BDS provide options like MPH, MHA, and DDS, boosting global exposure and career growth.
  • Higher studies in USA after BDS let Indian students specialize in dentistry or shift to public health with scholarships.
  • Higher studies in USA after BDS help graduates gain international education and strong placements in top healthcare systems.

As the demand for dental specialists in the United States is expected to continue to expand, Indian BDS graduates are more interested than ever in pursuing the most wanted DDS program in the USA. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, oral health care professions have both employment status as well as excellent career pathways in the United States.

The journey to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) experience is fraught with challenges such as proving eligibility for further education, participating in national board dental examinations, and the challenges of living in another country while studying at a different school.

There are many challenges for BDS’s and one can land in a good position to clarify your study options such as, transitioning into an AEGD or specialty program (pediatric dentistry) having mapped the work education to be embraced, planned out and isolated for long term motivation to navigate through these challenges.

This guide highlights top universities in the USA among the top destinations to study in the USA for Indian students offering DDS program that will be ranking by the colleges in 2024. So Indian students can access ways to take advantage of promising pathways including scholarship opportunities, proficiency tests to develop their capability’s and launching their careers in the USA.

Why Pursue Higher Studies in USA After BDS?

Are you looking for a brighter smile? If so, the folks that say the fastest way to that smile is with great dentistry—and if you are completing a BDS in India, then the next step may be a dentist in America. But wait – why do a DDS program in the USA for international students after BDS?

higher studies in usa after bds 1

Hint: it leads to greater future possibilities – including scholarships despite the high cost of living! 

Advanced Clinical Training

Notably, studying for a dentist degree in the USA, and with a scholarship, not only provides students with the latest education and training in dentistry, but merges the idea of clinical practice with cutting-edge research.

Studying for a DDS degree, also builds upon and further refines your BDS from India, and still prepares you to practice dentistry in the USA! Which is an enormous bonus for international students looking for stability and better career enjoyment. 

Global Recognition

Universities in the United States that offer study for a DDS, and scholarship, are usually accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the skills you gain through that education are recognized and awarded globally! meaning you in fact receive mechanical credibility to take your International education and training and turn it into an international career.

In-Demand Profession

From 2020 to 2030, the DDS degree for skilled dentists is projected to grow significantly in the USA, this means that it is a highly marketable degree. If BDS graduates from India choose to pursue a DDS degree in the USA, they can enter that market. BDS graduates can enjoy job security and good salary range (In addition, it opens the doors to specialization).

Pathway to Specializations

The United States has a number of universities who offer a pathway for international students to practice pediatric dentistry/general dentistry at finding the most desirable schools of dentistry.

You may do a search to see if there are any research facilities of interest if you are considering a master of science in dentistry program. As long as you plan ahead and apply for a scholarship, tuition and cost of living in the USA is more affordable than imagined which has a tremendous value.

10 Best Universities to Study Abroad Pursue DDS After BDS in India 2024 as an International Student (With Tuition Fees)

The Master of Science (MS) in Dentistry in the United States allows international students to engage in advanced clinical training at state-of-the-art research facilities with globally recognized qualifications. In addition to your career being advanced, the MS in Dentistry can assist in finding better career opportunities and scholarships in some areas of dentistry.

Following is a list of ten great universities in the USA that offer MS in Dentistry programs and scholarships along with tuition fees in the USA:

UniversityLocationAverage Annual Tuition Fees (USD)Average Annual Dentist Salary in State (USD)
Harvard UniversityCambridge, MA$65,000$197,910
University of California, San DeigoSan Francisco, CA$50,535$165,950
New York UniversityNew York, NY$98,892$170,800
University of North CarolinaChapel Hill, NC$95,545$189,980
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia, PA$86,448$159,450
University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA$47,360$165,950
Columbia UniversityNew York, NY$93,380$170,800
University of MichiganAnn Arbor, MI$49,200$178,250
University of Southern CaliforniaLos Angeles, CA$113,739$165,950
Boston UniversityBoston, MA$56,584$197,900

What Is The Eligibility Criteria For Indian Students To Pursue DDS In The USA

For Indian students, obtaining a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) in the USA can be a thrilling, yet difficult journey. A DDS offers advanced education and unlimited worldwide career opportunities, however, acceptance to the program is not without challenge.

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Indian students commonly meet challenges like stringent eligibility thresholds, high-cost living in USA, complex application process, and high tuition fees. Here’s a summary of eligibility criteria and the typical challenges for Indian students:

RequirementDetails
Educational QualificationBDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) or equivalent from a recognized educational institution in India.
National Board Dental ExaminationStudents must pass the NBDE Part I and in many cases the Part II (depending on the program).
TOEFL ScoreAn indication of English proficiency, usually a TOEFL score in the range of 90-100.
GPA EquivalentSome institutions required the candidates to achieve a minimum GPA (or equivalent) in the BDS degree.
Advanced Standing ProgramMost Indian students apply to an Advanced Standing Program (ASP), which was been created for students who are internationally trained dentists. 
Clinical ExperienceSome programs may require evidence of clinical experience before entering the program, and/or completion of internships.
Letters of RecommendationUsually a minimum of 2-3 letters of recommendation from academics or professional references such as the superintendent of a hospital or dental practice.
Personal Statement or SOPAn essay demonstrating direct academic motivations and aspirations for obtaining a DDS degree in the USA.

Conclusion

Pursuing a DDS degree in the United States after earning a BDS is more than just adding to your degree; it is a launching pad into advanced career options, global recognition and the opportunity to specialize. Yes, the process is arduous – high cost of living, strict admission requirements to study DDS and become a dentist in the USA, few scholarships available.

It takes the dedication of the applicants, clear planning and awareness of the applications, and the process of licensing. However, the benefits – enhanced clinical skills, excellent employability and future of practice in an ever-expanding field in the United States – are worth it.

For Indian students, a DDS program is a way to obtain a degree, but it is also a pathway to a meaningful global career in dentistry. The intensive training and prestigious qualification will allow you to practice confidently in the United States and abroad.

So, if you are prepared and ready to tackle the challenges head on, a DDS could be adequately the game changer in the transformation of your career and opportunities worldwide.

Begin your journey to studying in the USA, the land of diverse educational opportunities, with Ambitio. Our platform provides you with the tools and insights to navigate the vast landscape of American universities, helping you find the perfect institution that aligns with your academic goals and aspirations.

FAQs

How to pursue higher studies in USA after BDS?

To pursue higher studies in USA after BDS, students can apply for programs like DDS, MPH, or MHA offered by top universities. With scholarships and structured pathways, higher studies in USA after BDS become an excellent choice for dental graduates.

What are the best courses for higher studies in USA after BDS?

The best courses for higher studies in USA after BDS include DDS for clinical practice, MPH for public health, and MHA for healthcare management. These options make higher studies in USA after BDS versatile for Indian students.

Is DDS a good option for higher studies in USA after BDS?

DDS is one of the most popular programs for higher studies in USA after BDS as it allows students to practice dentistry in the USA. With strong career prospects, DDS makes higher studies in USA after BDS highly rewarding.

Do Indian students get scholarships for higher studies in USA after BDS?

Yes, Indian students can apply for scholarships to support higher studies in USA after BDS, covering tuition and living costs. Many universities and organizations offer funding, making higher studies in USA after BDS more affordable.

Which exams are required for higher studies in USA after BDS?

Exams like TOEFL, IELTS, and sometimes GRE are required for higher studies in USA after BDS. Depending on the course, these tests help secure admission, making higher studies in USA after BDS accessible to qualified students.

Are there job opportunities after higher studies in USA after BDS?

Yes, job opportunities after higher studies in USA after BDS are excellent, especially in dentistry, public health, and healthcare management. Graduates benefit from international exposure, making higher studies in USA after BDS valuable for career growth.

Can students with average scores apply for higher studies in USA after BDS?

Students with average academic scores can still apply for higher studies in USA after BDS if they have strong resumes and statements of purpose. With careful preparation, higher studies in USA after BDS remain possible for motivated applicants.

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