Internationally Trained Dentists
Eligibility
In order to be eligible for admission with advanced standing as an internationally trained dentist, applicants must have successfully completed the DDS degree (or its equivalent). Additionally, candidates must have passed Parts I and II of the National Dental Board Examination.
Application Process
Applications for admission with advanced standing should be requested from the Office of Admissions. Requests for an application must be submitted no later than January 1st of the year of desired matriculation. The completed application should be returned to the Office of Admissions along with the following:
- A detailed letter describing the reason for seeking admission with advanced standing
- The $350 application fee (payable to the University of Maryland School of Dentistry)
- Official reports of National Board Part I and Part II scores
- Results of a TOEFL, if English is not the native language
- Clear, legible photocopies of the dental degree (DDS equivalent), course transcripts, and grades or examination scores, with certified English translations
- A course-by-course evaluation of academic credentials, performed by a recognized evaluation service
- Three letters of recommendation from former faculty members or recent professional contacts
Preliminary Review
After required materials have been submitted and preliminarily reviewed, the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes a determination regarding a personal interview. Candidates being seriously considered for admission are interviewed by members of the Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions. After the preliminary interview, the Committee makes a determination whether the candidate should be invited to complete the comprehensive skills analysis, conducted by the departments. For candidates invited to continue with the application process, the fee for the skills assessment is $2,000, payable on or before the date of the first departmental assessment.
Review by Departments
Candidates receive a list of School of Dentistry department chairs (or designees) who meet with the candidates and conduct academic and preclinical skills assessments. The School of Dentistry reserves the right to modify or waive all or part of the skills assessment, based on the backgrounds of individual candidates. Candidates will contact the faculty directly to make arrangements for their evaluations. Upon completion of the skills analysis, the department chairs/designees provides recommendations to the Office of Academic Affairs regarding admission and placement
Admissions and Placement Decisions
The Committee on Dental Recruitment and Admissions makes the final decision regarding admission. The Progression Committees develop specific recommendations regarding placement or modification to the student’s curriculum or course requirements to accommodate individual strengths and weaknesses. The Assistant Dean of Admissions and Recruitment notifies applicants regarding admissions and placement decisions. Space must be available within the projected class in order for an offer of admission to be extended.