The International Dentist Education Program (IDEP) at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry consists of a 27-month pathway leading to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree program for dentists who have obtained their dental degree outside the United States.
The program begins with an accelerated three-month Bridge Training (May through July), providing a comprehensive review and calibration across the art, science, and clinical practice of dentistry across its diverse disciplines. This intensive training prepares participants to matriculate into the third year of the DDS Program in August.
The Bridge Training Program cost is approximately $37,000 USD, including all instruments and supplies. Upon successful completion of this preparatory phase, matriculation into the DDS Program is coordinated through with the UTHealth Houston Office of the Registrar. IDEP students can expect tuition and fees to average up to $100,000 USD per year, depending on Texas resident status.
The IDEP Bridge Training is a full-time program. Due to the demands of the full-time program, outside activities that can interfere with the program are not permitted.
Applicants selected for an in-person interview will also be required to take a hand skills assessment, which includes a non-refundable $300 USD fee.
Application and Admission Requirements
- Required upon Application (through ADEA CAAPID)
- Resume or CV
- Dental school diploma (with English translations, if applicable)
- ECE Course by Course Evaluation Report of transcripts from non-U.S. dental school
- Three letters of recommendation from dental professionals (one letter is required from the dean of the dental school)
- TOEFL scores (reporting a combined score of 92 or above within the last three years)
- National Boards Parts I and II or Integrated National Board Dental Examination score
- Required upon Interview Invitation
- Additional nonrefundable fee of $300 USD
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency documentation (through email/link upload)
- Required on Interview Day
- Hard copy proof of U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency
- Required upon Program Acceptance
- CPR Certification
- Immunization record
- Acceptance of payment plan through School of Dentistry's PACE Center
IDEP questions can be submitted to [email protected].