Best Dentistry Courses in Australia for International Students

Dentistry is a highly competitive subject, and students must have the best skills and knowledge to compete for a position in the industry. Australia is home to some of the world’s best and most competitive dentistry schools. Dentistry courses in Australia include the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), the License in Dental Surgery, and the Diploma in Dental Surgery (LDS).

A degree in dentistry can lead to many career opportunities, such as being a dentist, dental assistant, or oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Learn more about Australia’s leading dentistry courses below (QS Subject Rankings by Subject 2025) and book a free consultation if you want to study in Australia.

Top Five Dentistry Courses in Australia

1. University of Melbourne

The Melbourne Dental School is one of Australia’s leading graduate institutions, offering a four-year specialised dental programme. Its curriculum integrates speciality training with the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry degree, advanced training modules and research degrees. The faculty’s research spans a broad spectrum, from foundational science to clinical studies, encompassing numerous interdisciplinary fields.

Situated within the Melbourne Biomedical Research Precinct, a consortium of over 40 hospitals, research centres, training institutes and biotechnology organisations, the dental school benefits from unparalleled access to cutting-edge research technologies and world-leading biomedical experts.

• Suggested course: Bachelor of Oral Health
• Entry requirements: Intermediate level exam with a minimum of 75% and pass English Proficiency Test, such as IELTS/TOEFL

2. University of Queensland

The University of Queensland’s School of Dentistry is nationally and internationally acclaimed for its teaching, research excellence and distinguished academic staff. Its innovative curriculum seamlessly integrates theoretical study with practical training, equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to prevent and manage a wide range of oral health conditions.

Students undertake a substantial research project, developing important scientific competencies. They also gain hands-on experience through direct patient care, observational clinics, chairside assisting and community outreach in general practice, paediatric dentistry, periodontics and oral surgery.

• Suggested course: Bachelor of Dental Science (Hons)
• Entry requirements: UCAT ANZ qualification and IELTS/PTE/TOEFL

3. Griffith University

Griffith University features a state-of-the-art dental teaching hospital and institute, where students gain clinical experience by treating patients under the guidance of expert tutors. Close observation of practising dentists ensures a deep understanding of diagnostic and treatment protocols. Upon graduation, students are eligible for registration with the Dental Board of Australia, enabling them to enter the profession without delay.

• • Popular course: Doctor of Dental Medicine
  • Entry requirements: ATAR or equivalent, ISAT score, and an interview process

4.  University of Adelaide

The Adelaide Dental School, part of one of South Australia’s highest-ranked universities and placed among the world’s top 100, hosts the Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health. Accredited by the Australian Dental Council and the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, it offers a diverse suite of clinically oriented undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Bachelor of Oral Health and Doctor of Clinical Dentistry.

All courses emphasise innovative, high-quality and flexible delivery, blending collaborative learning, case studies, clinical placements and problem-based learning sessions.

• Suggested course: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
• Entry requirements: Intermediate level exam with a minimum of 50% and pass English proficiency test

5. University of Sydney

Established over a century ago, the University of Sydney School of Dentistry was Australia’s first institution dedicated to dentistry and oral health education. Its model integrates research, clinical practice and teaching, with partnerships spanning Sydney Dental Hospital, Westmead Centre for Oral Health and various local health district dental hospitals. Accredited by the Australian Dental Council, it offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate and professional short courses.

• Suggested course: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
• Entry requirements: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores

Why Study Dentistry in Australia?

1. Globally Recognised Courses: All dental programmes in Australia are accredited by the Australian Dental Council (ADC), a member of the International Federation of Dental Education (IFDE). This ensures your qualification meets rigorous international standards and is accepted by regulatory bodies around the world. As a result, graduates can pursue careers or further training in multiple countries without the need for extensive re-accreditation.

2. Diversified Environment: Australia’s vibrant multicultural society welcomes students from every corner of the globe. You’ll study alongside peers from diverse cultural, linguistic and socioeconomic backgrounds, enriching both your personal growth and professional perspective. This global outlook prepares you to deliver culturally competent care in any community.

3. Reasonable Course Fees: Compared with many other leading study destinations, tuition for dentistry in Australia strikes an excellent balance between quality and cost. Universities often offer payment plans, scholarships and part-time work opportunities to help manage expenses. When combined with Australia’s high living standards and support services for international students, the overall investment remains competitive.

4. Research Training Options: Australian dental schools are at the forefront of oral health research, addressing issues from local community needs to global health challenges. You can join research teams investigating topics such as preventive dentistry, biomaterials or public health interventions. These experiences refine your analytical skills and open pathways to academic or clinical research careers.

5. Career Opportunities: The demand for dental professionals in Australia continues to grow, driven by an expanding population and increasing focus on preventive care. Graduates enjoy excellent employment prospects across private practices, public health services, community clinics and specialist centres. Many also pursue advanced training or leadership roles, supported by strong professional networks and continued learning programmes.

UCAT ANZ

The University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand (UCAT ANZ) is a mandatory admissions examination for most dental and medical undergraduate courses. This two-hour, computer-based test evaluates five key areas: verbal reasoning, decision-making, quantitative reasoning, abstract reasoning and situational judgment. Each section begins with a brief instruction period and once you start, the clock runs continuously without pause.

Your UCAT ANZ score helps universities assess critical thinking, problem-solving and ethical decision-making skills alongside academic achievements.

Career Prospects and Salary

Dentistry graduates in Australia can embark on varied career paths, including general practice, community oral health, research, teaching and specialist fields such as orthodontics or oral surgery. Many find roles in private clinics, public hospitals, school dental services or even in the Australian Defence Force. To advance, you might pursue a postgraduate diploma or master’s in areas like forensic odontology, dental public health or implantology.

Salaries reflect experience and location. Entry-level dentists typically earn around A$118,000 per annum, while the national average sits at approximately A$152,000. Seasoned practitioners with over eight years’ experience can command upwards of A$199,000 annually, with additional earning potential through private practice ownership or specialist qualifications.

Study Dentistry in Australia

If you want to learn more about Australian universities and their undergraduate and postgraduate courses in dentistry, book a free consultation today. Our consultants can take you through your study options and help you apply with expert guidance.