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 2026
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
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)
3. Griffith University
View Griffith University profile
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
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)
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)
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.
Entry Requirements
Australia offers two main pathways into dentistry for international students: undergraduate entry into a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Bachelor of Dental Science (BDSc), and postgraduate entry into a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).
Undergraduate Dentistry
International applicants must typically have completed secondary school with strong results in science subjects, especially chemistry and biology. Requirements include:
- Minimum academic score: Equivalent to an Australian ATAR of 95+ (e.g. IB score of 38+, GPA of 3.8+, or 90–95% depending on country)
- Prerequisite subjects: Chemistry is mandatory; biology, physics, and mathematics are strongly recommended
- English language proficiency: IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5; or TOEFL iBT score of 94+
- Admissions test: Some universities require the UCAT ANZ (University Clinical Aptitude Test) for undergraduate entry
- Interview: Structured interviews or Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) may be part of the selection process
Postgraduate Dentistry
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as biomedical science or health sciences. Requirements include:
- Minimum GPA: Equivalent to 5.0+ on a 7-point scale (approx. 65–70%)
- Admissions test: GAMSAT, DAT, or CDAT, depending on the university
- English language proficiency: IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with no band below 6.5
- Interview: Required at most institutions
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.
