Study Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) in the USA – Top Universities, Eligibility, Tuition Costs, and Career Outlook

Dreaming of becoming a dentist and studying in the US? A Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or its US equivalent could be your first step toward a fulfilling career in oral healthcare. While BDS is a popular term in countries like India and the UK, the US typically offers pre-dentistry or dental hygiene programs at the undergraduate level, followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at the postgraduate level.

If you’re considering pursuing your dental studies in the US, here’s everything you need to know—from top universities and entry requirements to tuition fees and job prospects after graduation.

Why Choose the US for Dental Studies?

The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for dental education due to several compelling reasons:

• World-renowned universities: US institutions consistently rank high in global rankings for dental sciences, ensuring quality education and global recognition.
• Advanced research exposure: Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities, equipping them with strong analytical and diagnostic skills.
• Career progression opportunities: Graduates often pursue advanced dental programs or start clinical practice in the US, with the possibility of obtaining a work visa or permanent residency.
• Strong job market: The demand for dentists is rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession is projected to grow by 4% between 2022 and 2032.

Popular Undergraduate Dental Programs in the US

Although the US doesn’t offer a BDS degree in the traditional sense, international students can pursue related undergraduate programs that prepare them for dental school. Some popular options include:

• Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
• Bachelor of Applied Science in Allied Health – Dental Hygiene
• Bachelor of Science in Pre-Dentistry
• Bachelor of Science in Public Health Dental Hygiene
• Bachelor of Science in Natural Science – Pre-Dentistry

Top Universities in the US for Undergraduate Dental Programs

If you’re planning to study dentistry at a leading institution, here are some of the top-ranked US universities for dental sciences based on the QS World University Rankings 2024:

• University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
  • Type: Public
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Tuition: Approx. USD 58,080
  • IELTS Requirement: 7.0
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Type: Public
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition: Approx. USD 149,440
  • IELTS Requirement: 7.0
• New York University (NYU)
  • Type: Private
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition: Approx. USD 241,752
  • IELTS Requirement: 7.5
• Ohio State University – Columbus
  • Type: Public
  • Duration: 4 years
  • Tuition: Approx. USD 143,048
  • IELTS Requirement: 6.5
• Texas A&M University
  • Type: Land-Grant
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Tuition: Approx. USD 44,744
  • IELTS Requirement: 6.0

Tuition Fees for BDS-related Programs in the US

The average tuition cost for undergraduate dental programs in the US is estimated at USD 91,500, but this figure can vary significantly depending on the university and program duration. Always check individual university websites for the most accurate and up-to-date fees.

Eligibility Criteria for Admission

Admission requirements may differ by university, but generally, you’ll need the following:

• A recognised 4-year Bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate entry) or high school completion (for undergraduate programs)
• Strong academic background in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
• GPA of 3.5 or above or equivalent high academic standing
• IELTS or other approved English proficiency test with a minimum score of 6.0 (some programs may require higher)

Career Opportunities After Dental Studies in the US

Graduates from US dental programs enjoy excellent career prospects. Here are some popular roles and their estimated average annual salaries:

• Dental Hygienist – USD 98,953
• General Dentist – USD 228,465
• Paediatric Dentist – USD 211,115
• Periodontist – USD 204,356
• Endodontist – USD 242,292

These figures vary based on location, experience, and specialization but reflect the overall lucrative nature of the dental profession in the US.

FAQs – BDS in the USA

Can I study BDS in the US after 12th?
Not directly. US dental programs typically require a prior undergraduate degree in a relevant science field before applying for DDS or DMD programs. However, you can start with a pre-dentistry or related bachelor’s course.

How long does it take to become a dentist in the US?
It typically takes 4 years of undergraduate study followed by another 4 years in dental school—around 8 years in total.

How much does it cost to study dental science in the US?
Average tuition costs range from USD 44,000 to USD 240,000, depending on the program and institution.

What is the salary after completing dental studies in the US?
On average, graduates can earn USD 98,000 to over USD 240,000 annually, depending on the dental specialization and region.

What’s the cost of living for BDS students in the US?
Living expenses vary by city, but most international students spend between USD 500 and USD 2,000 per month on housing, food, and transportation.

Need help finding the right program or university in the US?
Get expert counselling to explore your best-fit options and take the first step toward a successful dental career in the United States.