How to Apply for DDS in USA : A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Last updated on September 25th, 2023 at 01:22 pm

Introduction

Pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in the United States is a compelling journey that transforms dental careers.

It’s a pathway that not only transcends borders but also enriches dental professionals in profound ways.

Here is a step by step guide to the detailed process of how to apply for DDS in USA.

Here is a step by step guide to the detailed process of How to Apply for DDS in USA:

Step 1: Planning and Research on How to Apply for DDS in USA

Here are a few things which need to be considered first before you make a decision

• To practice in US you first need to do a 2 year DDS.
• You need to study hard and prepare for the examination for admission to DDS.
• You will need to go to the US to give the exam so keep your passport and visa ready.
• You should know someone in America who will be willing to cosign your loan for DDS course so confirm with a close relative or friend who is a US citizen.
• You need a substantial amount for the complete application and examination process so arrange for the funds accordingly.

Step 2: Clear TOEFL English Language Exam

The TOEFL exam assesses the English language proficiency of non-native English speakers.

It ensures that international students can effectively communicate and study in English, which is the primary language of instruction in most U.S. dental schools.

Cost of the exam is around 200 US dollars .

Click here to visit the official website of TOEFL.

The TOEFL exam is conducted online and it assesses the following language skills:

• Reading: Your ability to understand and analyze written English passages.
• Listening: Your capacity to comprehend spoken English in academic and everyday contexts.
• Speaking: Your ability to expre.s your thoughts and ideas coherently and fluently.
• Writing: Your skill in writing well-structured essays and reports.

Score Requirements: Typically, a minimum total score of 100 out of 120 is required. But the higher the score the more chances for getting a good college for DDS.

TOEFL scores are typically valid for two years. Before you start studying the dental curriculum it is advisable to prepare for your English language exam and clear this test.

Step 3: Create a Dentpin

A Dentpin short for “DENTal Personal Identifier Number,” is a unique identification number assigned to individuals who are applying to dental programs or taking various dental examinations in the United States.

The American Dental Association (ADA) manages the Dentpin system.

It’s an essential component of the application and examination process for aspiring dental professionals in the USA.

Click here to create your UNIQUE DENTPIN .

Creating pin is Free of cost.

Here are some key points about Dentpin:

1. Unique Identifier: The Dentpin serves as a personal identifier for dental professionals and students. It helps to track individuals throughout their dental education and career.
2. Versatile Use: Dentpin is used for various purposes, including dental school applications, registration for the National Board Dental Examinations (NBDE), and other interactions with dental organizations and licensing boards.
3. Security: Dentpin provides a level of security and privacy by assigning a unique number to each individual, reducing the reliance on personal information like Social Security numbers.
4. Lifetime Usage: Once assigned, your Dentpin remains the same throughout your dental education and career. It’s a lifelong identifier.
5. Application Requirement: When applying to dental schools or registering for dental examinations, you typically need to provide your Dentpin as part of the application or registration process.
6. Accessing Scores: You can use your Dentpin to access your examination scores and transcripts, making it a valuable tool for tracking your progress.

Overall, Dentpin simplifies administrative processes in the dental education and licensing system in the United States and helps individuals manage their educational and professional records efficiently.

It’s an essential component of the application and examination process for aspiring dental professionals in the USA.

Step 4: Get your Educational Credential Evaluators Score (ECE/WES)

American Universities grade their students according to GPA system, so all international students need to convert their degrees, marks and credentials into US GPA grading through a channel called ECE or WES.

This procedure is done through a website by uploading your documents.

Cost of this procedure is around 180 US dollars.

Click here to go to the website for your ECE Score.

Here’s how the ECE evaluation process works:

1. Credential Evaluation: ECE assesses the authenticity of your educational documents, including your BDS degree . They verify the legitimacy of your academic records.
2. Course-by-Course Evaluation: ECE provides a detailed course-by-course evaluation of your academic credentials. This evaluation typically includes a US GPA equivalent, degree equivalency, and a breakdown of the courses you’ve completed.
3. Translation and Conversion: If your academic documents are not in English, ECE may provide translated versions alongside the original language. They also convert grading systems used in your home country to the US grading scale.
4. Credential Report: ECE generates a report summarizing their findings, which can be sent directly to the dental schools you’re applying to. This report helps US institutions understand the quality and equivalency of your foreign education.
5. Admission Decision: Dental schools use the ECE evaluation as part of their admission process to assess your eligibility and qualification for their program. However, the specific requirements and weight given to the ECE evaluation can vary by school.

Indian Dentists and Dental Students are required to submit the following documents for credential evaluation on the official ECE website:

• Class XII (Grade 12) Certificate
• Class X (Grade 10) Certificate
• Degree, BDS /MDS
• All marksheets
• Attempt Certificate
• Internship Completion Certificate
• Any other degrees /courses/

Step 5: Application Process for INBDE exam

The Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) is the governing body for the INBDE.

Using their DENTPIN , candidates can submit an application through the website given below .

Click here to apply on the official website for INBDE exam.

A new application and fee must be submitted before each testing attempt. So if you donot pass the exam you need to pay the fee again for reapplication.

Schedule your exam only when your preparation is complete and you are confident about it.

The fee for the exam is as follows:

Fee Type	Description	Fee Amount
INBDE Fee	This fee includes official results reporting to the candidate, three licensing jurisdictions (provided result report requests are requested at the time of application), and the candidate’s dental school (CODA accredited dental school).	$845
Processing Fee for International Candidates	This processing fee applies to candidates who are students or graduates of a dental school not in the United States or Canada.	$350
Results Report Fee	This fee covers a single results report for a recipient NOT selected at the time of application.	$50 per report
Results Audit Fee	DTS is willing to audit a candidate’s results if the request is received within 30 days of the reporting date on the official results report.	$65
Eligibility Extension Fee	Candidates can extend their eligibility period for a fee. The extension is for 45 days and is available once per application.	$130

Fees for Rescheduling the test INBDE exam

Days Prior to Testing Appointment	Reschedule Fee
30 or more business days before the test date	$40
5 – 29 business days before the scheduled test date	$70
1 – 4 business days before the scheduled test date	$150
Penalty if candidate fails to appear for a scheduled testing appointment OR presents more than 30 minutes after the scheduled start time and is refused admission	Full testing fee will be

Step 6: Giving the exam

The INBDE is the centre point of transition to the US.

This is the Integrated National Board Dental Examination. Earlier it was coducted in two parts I and II.But now it has been integrated into one.

Successfully passing these exams is a pivotal milestone on the path to becoming a licensed dentist in the United States.

The results are declared as Pass or Fail .There are no marks in this examination.

Scale scores range from 49 to 99, with a score of 75 representing the minimum passing score.

Importance of INBDE exam

It is a rigorous assessment with multifaceted importance:

1. Benchmark of Competence: The INBDE serves as a benchmark of your competence in dental sciences. It validates your readiness to take on the responsibilities of a dental professional in the USA.
2. Admission Prerequisite: For aspiring dental students, INBDE scores often play a crucial role in the admission process. Many dental schools in the USA consider strong NBDE scores as a prerequisite for acceptance.
3. Gateway to Licensure: To practice dentistry in the USA, successful completion of the INBDE is mandatory. It represents the first significant step toward obtaining a dental license, which is pivotal for your professional journey.
4. Competitive Edge: Achieving a competitive INBDE score sets you apart in the highly competitive landscape of dental school admissions. It showcases your commitment to excellence and your readiness to meet the demands of dental education.

Duration of INBDE exam

It is a two day exam held in the United States of America.

Day 1
Section	Content	Minutes
Tutorial (optional)		15
Section 1	100 questions	105
Scheduled Break 1 (optional)		15
Section 2	100 questions	105
Scheduled Break 2 (optional)		30
Section 3	100 questions	105
Scheduled Break 3 (optional)		15
Section 4	60 items (item sets)	105
Day One Total Time		8 hours 15 minutes

Day 2
Section	Content	Minutes
Tutorial (optional)		15
Section 5	70 items (item sets)	105
Scheduled Break (optional)		15
Section 6	70 items (item sets)	105
Post-Exam Survey		15
Day 2 Total Time		4 hours 15 minutes

| Total Time | | | 12 hours 30

Pattern of INBDE exam

The INDBE exam has a typical pattern.Click to see.

Step 7: Prepare LOR Letters of Recommendations

Dental schools mandate applicants to produce reference letters in order to gain a third person perspective into the application.

It is also called as the Letter of Evaluation.

What Do Dental Schools Look For In Letters of Recommendation?

• Work ethics
• Character traits of the applicant
• Technical knowledge
• Aptitude 
• Applicant’s interest in dental studies
• Any specific achievements that will ensure applicant success in dental school
• Volunteering or shadowing experience
• Relationship with the referee
• Official letterhead of referee

These are the reference letters written by individuals like professors, employers, dentists, etc.You should have atleast 3 such letters, but more references make your application stronger.

You can get LOR Letters from

• Principal of your BDS college
• Any teacher/professor of your college
• Any guide or mentor that you have done clinical work with
• Any senior dentist you have worked with
• Any renowned dentist whose course you have attended

A sample reference required to Apply for DDS after BDS letter is given below

Step 8: Prepare your Resume and Statement of Purpose for DDS after BDS

Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a written document in which a prospective student explains their goals, aspirations, and reasons for pursuing DDS.

This is your opportunity to explain why you want to pursue dentistry and what makes you a strong candidate.

Here are some key points to consider when writing a Statement of Purpose:

1. Introduction: Begin your SOP with a strong and engaging introduction. You can start by explaining your interest in the field or program you are applying for. Make it clear and concise.
2. Background and Experience: Discuss your educational background, relevant coursework, and any academic achievements or experiences that have prepared you for the program. Highlight your skills, expertise, and qualifications.
3. Goals and Objectives: Explain your short-term and long-term goals. Describe what you hope to achieve through the program or position you’re applying for. Be specific about your career aspirations and how the program aligns with them.
4. Research Interests : Discuss your research interests and any prior research experience.
5. Why This Program/Institution: Explain why you are interested in the specific program or institution. Mention any unique features, resources, faculty, or opportunities that attracted you. Show that you’ve done your research.
6. Relevance of Your Background: Connect your academic and personal background to the program’s objectives. Discuss how your experiences make you a strong candidate.
7. Passion and Enthusiasm: Convey your passion and enthusiasm for the field or program. Admissions committees are often looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about their chosen path.
8. Conciseness: Keep your SOP concise and well-organized.
9. Proofreading: Carefully proofread your SOP for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Avoid clichés and vague statements. Use a formal and professional tone.
10. Originality: Write an original SOP that reflects your unique experiences and motivations.
11. Honesty: Be truthful and honest in your statements. Exaggeration or misrepresentation can harm your application.
12. Formatting: Follow any formatting guidelines provided by the institution or program. Use a clear font and standard formatting.
13. Review: Ask trusted friends, family members, or mentors to review your SOP and provide feedback. They can help you identify areas for improvement.

Remember that the SOP is your opportunity to make a strong case for why you are a deserving candidate.

It should provide insight into your personality, goals, and qualifications, helping the admissions committee or employer understand why you are the right fit for the opportunity.

Step 9: Apply to Universities ADEA Platform

The ADEA AADSAS (American Dental Education Association Associated American Dental Schools Application Service) is a centralized application service used by many dental schools in the United States for the application process to DDS programs.

After you pass the INDBE exam and TOEFL exam you need to apply to the various universities through this platform.

There are about 20 universities which allow international students to enroll.

The fees is 200 US dollars per University .

Visit the ADEA Website here.

The documents which need to be submitted are

• Resume
• Statement of Purpose
• All your transcripts
• Letters of recommendation (LOR)
• INBDE result
• TOEFL score

Step 10: Interview and Bench test for DDS in USA

The interview and bench test process for DDS in USA can vary from one university to another.

Bench Test:

Some DDS programs may require a bench test, which is a practical examination that assesses your manual dexterity and technical skills.

Practice your clinical skills in advance.

The specific tasks you’ll be asked to perform can vary but may include tasks like

• Class 2 cavity preparation
• Crown preparation
• Temporization of the crown preparation
• Tooth carving

Here are some important details that are commonly associated with the interview and bench test stages of the DDS application process:

1. Invitation: If you meet the initial academic and application requirements, you may receive an invitation to participate in an interview and bench test. Not all DDS programs require these components, so check with the specific university.
2. Interview Format: The interview is usually conducted in-person. It typically involves a panel of interviewers, which may include faculty members, current students, and dental professionals.
3. Purpose of the Interview: The interview is an opportunity for the admissions committee to learn more about you as an applicant. They may ask about your motivations for pursuing dentistry, your relevant experiences, your problem-solving skills, and your ability to communicate effectively.
4. Communication Skills: In addition to technical skills, communication skills are crucial. Dental professionals must be able to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues. Be prepared to discuss your ability to communicate and collaborate.
5. Professionalism: Demonstrating professionalism is essential during the interview and bench test. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and maintain a respectful and courteous demeanor throughout the process.
6. Scoring: The interview and bench test are typically scored, and your performance will be a significant factor in the admissions decision. Be sure to follow instructions carefully and ask for clarification if needed.
7. Feedback: Some programs may provide feedback on your performance after the interview and bench test. This feedback can be valuable for future applications or interviews.

Conclusion

Staying organized during the whole process is key.

Develop a timeline for your application process, including deadlines for standardized tests, document submissions, and interviews.

Getting selected for DDS in USA is a lifetime opportunity and you must give your best shot in its preparation.

All the very best.

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