Dentistry has become one of the most sought-after study choices among International Baccalaureate (IB) graduates, combining strong academic interest with excellent career prospects. As a profession, it offers stability, high employability, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives — from restoring oral health to enhancing smiles and confidence. Across Europe and beyond, qualified dentists are in high demand, and graduates enjoy opportunities to work in private practice, public healthcare, research, or specialized fields such as orthodontics and pediatric dentistry. With its academic rigor, global recognition, and emphasis on independent learning, the IB Diploma Programme offers a strong foundation for pursuing a dental degree. But what exactly should IB students know before applying to dental schools in Europe?
Here’s a practical guide to help IB graduates navigate the process and make informed choices.
Know the Entry Requirements — And They Vary
Entry requirements for dentistry vary widely across European countries and institutions. While academic excellence is essential, most dental schools have very specific subject prerequisites:
- Subject Prerequisites: Most universities require Biology and Chemistry at Higher Level (HL). Physics or Mathematics may may strengthen your application.
- Grades: Competitive programs typically expect 33–40 IB points overall, with 6s or 7s in the sciences.
- English Proficiency: If your IB program was taught in English, this usually meets language requirements for English-taught dental degrees.
Country Examples:
- UK & Ireland: Typically require 36–40 IB points, HL Biology and Chemistry at 6 or 7, plus work experience in a dental or clinical setting.
- Germany & Austria: Accept the IB but require certain HL subjects and specific point totals; most programs are in German.
- Southern & Eastern Europe: Countries like Cyprus, Hungary, and Poland often have English-taught DDS programs with more flexible entry criteria.
Choose the Right Country for Your Goals
The country you choose will influence your language of study and career opportunities.
- Cyprus, Hungary, Poland, Italy all offer dentistry in English, with EU-wide recognition.
- European University Cyprus (EUC) offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program entirely in English, with advanced dental simulation labs and early hands-on clinical training through its fully equipped on-campus Dental Clinic.
- European University Cyprus (EUC) offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program taught entirely in English, featuring state-of-the-art dental simulation labs where students train on a one-to-one basis, and early hands-on clinical experience through its fully equipped on-campus Dental Clinic — one of the most contemporary in the region, with over 55 dental chairs and specialized units for pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. The School of Dentistry is ranked among Top 501-600 in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by subject and attracts students from countries such as Norway, the UK, France, Germany, Lebanon, Iceland, Canada, and Ireland, creating a truly diverse and dynamic learning environment. Most importantly, students benefit from personalized support from their professors, with small class sizes that ensure individual attention and mentorship throughout their studies.
Prepare for Entrance Exams (if required)
Even with an IB diploma, you may need to pass additional entrance assessments:
- UK & Ireland: Require UCAT/BMAT in addition to academic grades; competitive interviews also part of the process.
- Italy: IMAT (or equivalent) is compulsory for public dentistry programs but entry is highly competitive
- Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic: University-specific exams in Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Physics or Anatomy.
- EUC and other private institutions: Often adopt a holistic assessment that includes academic record, interview performance, and motivation rather than a standardized test.
Be Aware of Tuition and Living Costs
The cost of studying dentistry varies greatly:
- Public universities (Italy, Czech Republic): €1,000–€4,000/year.
- Private institutions/English-taught programs: €14,000–€20,000+/year (EUC’s tuition falls in this range but includes access to state-of-the-art facilities).
Living Costs: Eastern Europe (€400–700/month) vs. Western Europe (€800–1,200/month).
Tailor Your Application
Your IB background is more than just grades — use it to strengthen your profile:
- Your Personal Statement/Motivation Letter: Focus on precision skills, attention to detail, and commitment to patient care.
- Participation in CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) Projects: Highlight early engagement in volunteer work, community health campaigns, or dental outreach initiatives.
- Extended Essay: may also help strengthen your academic profile, especially if it explores a research paper on oral health, microbiology, or biomaterials can demonstrate genuine interest.
- References from IB Teacher: can support your university application by highlighting your academic and scientific abilities, interpersonal skills, work ethic, precision and character from the perspective of your instructors — key traits in dentistry.
Admissions Timeline
Each country follows its own schedule:
- UK: UCAS deadline mid-October for Dentistry.
- Italy: Italy has a centralized application system through Universitaly (June–July), with IMAT exam held in early autumn.
- Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic: often accept applications in spring or early summer, with entrance exams shortly after.
- Cyprus (EUC) & other private universities: Often accept applications on a rolling basis until late summer.
- Start early — it gives you time to prepare for entrance exams, secure teacher recommendations, organize application documents, and even get better housing options, especially if you’re applying to multiple countries or need a student visa.
Final Advice: Stay Flexible and Informed
As an IB graduate, you bring academic rigor, adaptability, and international awareness to the table. These qualities will serve you well in dental school, but success also depends on careful planning:
- Keep your options open across countries.
- Use official university sources and webinars for accurate requirements.
- Stay organized with deadlines, documents, and test dates from the start of IB Year 2.
European Universities Popular with IB Graduates (English-taught)
For IB graduates seeking an English-taught dental program, European University Cyprus stands out. With holistic admissions, cutting-edge simulation labs, and an on-campus dental clinic that serves real patients — including specialized areas for pediatric dentistry and orthodontics — EUC ensures students gain hands-on clinical experience from the earliest stages of their studies. Located in a safe, English-speaking environment, the program is fully approved by ADEE, recognized across the EU, enabling graduates to practice or pursue further specialization internationally.
In Summary:
Studying dentistry in Europe as an IB graduate is a realistic and rewarding path. By understanding country-specific requirements, preparing strategically for entrance exams, and showcasing your IB strengths, you can secure a place in a program that aligns with your professional goals. With the right preparation, your journey to becoming a dentist in Europe can start right after graduation.