University qualifying and degree-completion programs
Last reviewed 2026-09-27
Instead of the Equivalency Process, some internationally trained dentists earn an accredited Canadian DDS/DMD through an advanced-standing program, then take the Virtual OSCE.
| School | Program | Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | IDAPP (International Dentist Advanced Placement Program) | 6-month preparatory term, then year 3 of the DDS | Tuition is substantial. Check the faculty site |
| Western University (Schulich) | Internationally Trained Dentist (ITD) program | 3 years (joins DDS year 2) | An accredited qualifying program |
| McGill University | DMD Advanced Standing for foreign-trained dentists | 3 years | Starts in September |
| University of Manitoba | International Dentist Degree Program (IDDP) | 2 years | |
| Dalhousie University | DDS Qualifying Program | 3 years | Canadian citizens and permanent residents |
| Dalhousie + ACFD | Bridge Training to Dental Practice in Canada | About 8 months (pilot) | Announced 2025 as a new licensure path |
| UBC | International Dental Degree Completion | — | Not accepting applications until further notice |
Admission requirements (NDEB exam results, English proficiency, bench tests, interviews) and tuition change every cycle. Always check the faculty's own page.
Exam route or program?
Degree completion is supervised and structured, but it usually costs far more than the exam route and takes you out of work for years. The Equivalency Process costs less but relies on self-study and passing a series of high-stakes exams.
Whichever route you take, the AFK knowledge base matters
Many programs look at NDEB results. Build the fundamentals first.
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Frequently asked questions
Which Canadian universities offer programs for internationally trained dentists?
Programs include U of T (IDAPP), Western (ITD), McGill (DMD Advanced Standing), Manitoba (IDDP), Dalhousie (DDS Qualifying Program) and the Dalhousie/ACFD bridge pilot. UBC’s degree-completion program is paused.
Do I still take the Virtual OSCE after a degree-completion program?
Yes. Graduates of accredited programs certify through the NDEB Virtual OSCE before applying for a provincial licence.