If you're thinking about pursuing a career in dentistry after completing your ATAR, you're in the right place! Dentistry is a rewarding field that combines science, precision, and a passion for helping others. But before you can start your journey to becoming a dentist, there are a few pathways and steps you'll need to follow. This guide outlines the key details you need to know about studying dentistry in Australia, from application processes to exam preparation and interview requirements.
General Pathway to Study Dentistry
Step 1: Achieve a Strong ATAR
The first step to studying dentistry in Australia is securing a strong ATAR. Most Australian universities offering dentistry programs require a competitive ATAR (between 95 and 99).
Step 2: Register and Prepare for the UCAT
Many universities require students to sit for the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). This test is designed to assess students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and situational judgment skills. It is a crucial component for admission into dentistry programs in Australia.
- UCAT Structure: The test is divided into five sections—Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning, and Situational Judgment.
- Preparation: It’s recommended that students start preparing at least 3–6 months in advance. KIS Academics now provides help with UCAT tutoring too!
Step 3: Apply to Universities
Once you’ve received your ATAR and UCAT results, you can start applying to universities. Each university has its own process, but most require you to submit an online application through the Tertiary Admissions Centre relevant to your state (e.g., UAC for NSW, VTAC for Victoria). It’s essential to check each university's specific application deadlines and requirements.
Step 4: Prepare for Interviews
Several universities also conduct interviews as part of their selection process. These interviews are designed to assess your communication skills, empathy, and suitability for a career in dentistry. They may be structured as Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs), where you move between different stations and answer a variety of questions, or as panel interviews.
- Interview Preparation: Preparing for interviews is key. You can practice common questions, work on your ability to think under pressure and refine your communication skills. Mock interviews with a tutor or mentor can also help build your confidence.
Specific University Pathways
1) University of Adelaide Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
To apply for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Adelaide, you need to achieve an ATAR above 95 and sit the UCAT. The university also requires applicants to attend a panel interview.
Key Exams and Interviews:
- UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)
- Panel interview
Key Dates 2025:
- UCAT registration: March to May
- UCAT testing: July
- University Application deadline: September
2) University of Sydney Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
For students who have completed an undergraduate degree, the University of Sydney offers the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program. While this is a postgraduate program, students can follow an undergraduate pathway and later apply.
Key Exams and Interviews:
- GAMSAT (for postgraduate entry)
- Portfolio submission and interview
Key Dates for 2025:
- GAMSAT registration: November
- GAMSAT testing: March
3) Griffith University Bachelor of Dental Health Science
Griffith University offers a Bachelor of Dental Health Science program, which requires an ATAR above 99 and the UCAT. Applicants must also attend an MMI.
Key Exams and Interviews:
- UCAT
- Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI)
Key Dates for 2025:
- UCAT registration: March to May
- Interviews: August to September
4) University of Queensland Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours)
UQ’s Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours) program requires an ATAR above 98 and a UCAT score. Interviews are not part of the selection process at UQ.
Key Dates for 2025:
- UCAT registration: March to May
- University Application deadline: December
5) James Cook University Bachelor of Dental Surgery
JCU offers a Bachelor of Dental Surgery with a focus on rural and remote health. The application process requires students to submit a written application and attend an interview.
Key Exams and Interviews:
- Written application
- Interview (focus on rural health commitment)
Key Dates for 2025:
- Application deadline: September
- Interviews: November
Exam and Interview Preparation Tips
UCAT Tips:
- Start early: The UCAT is not content-based, so practising the types of questions you will encounter is crucial. Start preparation at least 6 months before the test.
- Practice under timed conditions: The UCAT is known for being a time-pressured test. Practice working under time constraints to build speed and accuracy.
Interview Tips:
- Know your motivations: Be ready to talk about why you want to study dentistry. Reflect on your experiences and passion for the field.
- Stay calm: MMIs can be intimidating, but staying calm and composed is key. Practice thinking on your feet with mock interviews or by discussing sample questions with a mentor or tutor.
- Be authentic: Universities want to see the real you, so be genuine in your responses and don’t feel like you need to give rehearsed answers.
FAQs
What are all my options for studying Dentistry in Aus?
Undergraduate Dentistry Programs
1. University of Adelaide – Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
2. James Cook University (JCU) – Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
3. University of Queensland (UQ) – Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours)
4. Griffith University – Bachelor of Dental Health Science + Master of Dentistry
5. Charles Sturt University (CSU) – Bachelor of Dental Science
6. La Trobe University – Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours)
7. University of Western Australia (UWA) – Direct Pathway to Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Postgraduate Dentistry Programs
1. University of Melbourne – Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
2. University of Sydney – Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
3. University of Western Australia (UWA) – Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
4. Griffith University – Master of Dentistry
Do I need to sit the UCAT for all dentistry programs?
Not all, but many Australian universities do require the UCAT as part of their dentistry application process whilst others may require the GAMSAT.
What happens if I don’t get the required ATAR for dentistry?
If you don’t meet the required ATAR, you could consider alternative pathways, such as studying a related undergraduate degree like biomedical science or health science and then applying for postgraduate dentistry programs.
Want more personalized study guidance to help drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!
Written by KIS Academics Tutor for WACE, Simran Vaishnav. Simran is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine at Bond University and has received stellar reviews from her past KIS Academics students. You can view Simran's profile here and request her as a tutor.
