- Desire2Study
- May 4
- 12 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
If you're planning to practice dentistry in the United Kingdom and have qualified overseas, passing the ORE examination is essential. With increasing demand for international dentists, many candidates look for the best ways to prepare and register successfully.
Top European medical schools now offer excellent preparation courses, making it easier for international students to become a dentist. Whether you plan to study dentistry abroad, or specifically study dentistry in Europe, the ORE path remains a major milestone.
At Desire2Study, we proudly partner only with accredited universities within the EU and EEA. This means our students, upon graduation, do not need to sit the ORE exams — avoiding the long, challenging, and competitive process required for non-EU graduates.
In this guide, we explain how candidates who studied outside the EU can register, prepare effectively, meet essential deadlines, and successfully navigate the ORE exam journey.
Table of Contents
What is the ORE in Dentistry?
The Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) is a crucial assessment for overseas-qualified dentists who wish to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and practice dentistry in the United Kingdom. It is designed to evaluate whether candidates possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and professional standards required to provide safe and effective dental care in the UK.
Key Facts About the ORE:
Conducted by: General Dental Council (GDC) the regulatory body overseeing dental professionals in the UK.
Purpose: Ensures overseas trained dentists meet UK standards before obtaining
registration.
Format: The exam consists of two parts:
Part 1: A written examination assessing theoretical knowledge in clinical dentistry, law, ethics, and health & safety.
Part 2: A practical examination testing hands-on clinical skills, including patient treatment scenarios.
ORE Pass Rates & Registration Statistics
2024 Data (GDC report):
ORE Part 1 pass rate:
April 2024 – 71%
August 2024 – 70%
ORE Part 2 pass rate:
January 2024 – 59%
April 2024 – 59%
September 2024 – 74%
November 2024 – 70%
Registrations: In 2023, around 10% of all newly registered dentists in the UK qualified through the ORE pathway.
ORE Exam Availability & Capacity for 2025 and Early 2026
Complete list of ORE Exam Seats and Dates:
ORE Part 1:
August 2025 – 600 places
December 2025 – 600 places
April 2026 – 600 places
ORE Part 2:
September 2025 – 144 places
November 2025 – 144 places
January 2026 – 144 places
April 2026 – 144 places
Why is the ORE Important?
The UK maintains high clinical and ethical standards for dental professionals, ensuring patient safety and quality care. The ORE examination plays a vital role in verifying that overseas trained dentists meet these standards before practicing in the UK.
By passing the ORE, candidates demonstrate their ability to provide competent, ethical, and safe dental treatment in accordance with UK regulations.
Overview of the ORE Examination
The ORE examination (Overseas Registration Examination) assesses whether international dentists have the knowledge, clinical skills, and professionalism necessary to practice safely and effectively in the UK. It ensures overseas-qualified dentists meet the same standards expected of UK dental graduates. Passing the ORE dental validation is a critical step for those aiming to join the General Dental Council (GDC) register and practice dentistry in the UK.
The ORE exams are divided into two parts:
ORE Part 1: Theoretical Knowledge
Format:
Two computer-based examination papers, taken on the same day.
Subjects Tested:
Clinical Dentistry (including all major specialties)
Law and Ethics related to UK dental practice
Health and Safety in the dental environment
Type of Questions:
Extended Matching Questions (EMQs)
Single Best Answer Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Candidates must demonstrate a strong theoretical understanding across a wide range of dental topics, including pharmacology, pathology, radiology, and public health dentistry. Studying with a structured ORE exam course is highly recommended to cover the breadth of material effectively.
ORE Part 2: Practical Skills
Format:
Part 2 assesses hands-on clinical competence through four components:
Objective
Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE): A circuit of stations testing clinical examination, communication, decision-making, and practical skills with simulated patients.
Dental Manikin Exercises: Technical tasks performed on a dental manikin, assessing operative dentistry skills like cavity preparation, crown preparations, and endodontic procedures.
Medical Emergencies: A practical and oral assessment of the candidate’s ability to manage common medical emergencies in dental settings.
Diagnostic and Treatment Planning: Written tasks and discussions where candidates interpret clinical information, radiographs, and patient histories to develop appropriate management plans.
Both parts of the ORE examination are rigorous and demand thorough preparation. Many candidates enhance their readiness by enrolling in an ORE exam readiness course, which provides tailored training and exam practice under the guidance of experienced tutors. Proper preparation significantly improves confidence and pass rates, especially for candidates attempting the exam for the first time.
Sample ORE Exam Timetable
ORE Part 1: Theoretical Knowledge
The ORE Part 1 is usually completed in one day and consists of two computer-based papers.
The day typically starts with candidate registration and a short briefing between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM.
Paper A, which focuses on Clinical Dentistry, is taken from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. It includes Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) and Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
After a break from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, candidates sit for Paper B. This second paper covers Law, Ethics, Health and Safety, and again features EMQs and MCQs.
Each paper lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
Results for Part 1 are usually released within 6 to 8 weeks following the exam date.
Always ensure you are familiar with the exam format and timing in advance, as time management during each paper is crucial for success.
ORE Part 2: Practical Skills
The ORE Part 2 takes place over two or three consecutive days, depending on the exam centre’s schedule.
On Day 1, candidates undertake the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), which consists of 15 to 20 clinical and communication-based stations.
On Day 2, candidates complete Dental Manikin Exercises and Diagnostic and Treatment Planning sessions. These tasks assess technical skills and clinical judgment based on patient cases.
Day 3 is dedicated to Medical Emergencies assessments, where candidates must demonstrate their ability to handle simulated emergency scenarios and answer oral questions related to emergency care.
In some cases, Day 2 and Day 3 may be combined into a single day. It’s important for candidates to be prepared for full-day assessments. Results for Part 2 are typically released 8 to 12 weeks after completion.
ORE exam places are limited and highly competitive, so early booking is vital to secure your seat.
ORE Example Questions and Exercises
Now that we have a clear overview of the ORE examination structure, let's explore examples of the types of questions you might find in Part 1.
ORE Part 1 (Theory Questions)
The ORE Part 1 exam assesses your theoretical understanding of dentistry through computer-based papers. To give you a clearer picture of what to expect, here are examples of the types of questions candidates might encounter during the examination.
1. Clinical Dentistry (MCQ)
A patient presents with a painless, slow-growing lump in the parotid gland region. Which is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Pleomorphic adenoma
B) Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
C) Warthin's tumour
D) Lymphoma
2. Law and Ethics (EMQ)
Match the following scenarios to the appropriate ethical principle:
A patient refuses a life-saving dental treatment.
A dentist shares a patient’s records without consent.
A dentist treats patients equally regardless of their ability to pay.
Ethical Principles:
A) Confidentiality
B) Autonomy
C) Justice
3. Health and Safety (MCQ)
What is the recommended method for disinfecting impressions before sending them to the dental laboratory?
A) Rinse with tap water only
B) Use an appropriate chemical disinfectant
C) Leave impressions to dry naturally
D) Spray with alcohol
4. Clinical Dentistry (MCQ)
Which antibiotic is most appropriate for the treatment of an acute dentoalveolar abscess in a penicillin-allergic patient?
A) Amoxicillin
B) Metronidazole
C) Erythromycin
D) Doxycycline
5. Law and Ethics (EMQ)
Match the dentist’s action to the ethical concept:
Reporting suspected child abuse to authorities
Providing all available treatment options to a patient
Avoiding treatment for financial gain
Ethical Concepts:
A) Beneficence
B) Non-maleficence
C) Veracity
6. Health and Safety (MCQ)
What is the correct sequence for donning personal protective equipment (PPE) before a dental procedure?
A) Gloves, gown, mask, eye protection
B) Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
C) Mask, gloves, gown, eye protection
D) Gown, gloves, mask, eye protection
Having understood the theoretical aspect of Part 1, it’s equally important to be aware of the hands-on challenges presented in Part 2. Here are examples of practical exercises to expect.
ORE Part 2 (Practical Exercises)
The ORE Part 2 exam focuses on practical skills, testing candidates through hands-on exercises across several stations. Below are sample exercises from typical stations such as the OSCE, Dental Manikin Tasks, and Medical Emergencies, designed to evaluate clinical competence and patient care skills.
1. OSCE Station Example (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
Scenario: You are shown a photograph of a patient with facial swelling.
Task: Take a brief medical history and explain your differential diagnosis to the examiner within 5 minutes.
2. Dental Manikin Exercise Example
Task: Perform a Class II cavity preparation and amalgam restoration on an upper first molar using a dental simulator within 45 minutes.
Assessment Focus: Accuracy of cavity outline, preservation of adjacent teeth, and correct restoration technique.
3. OSCE Station Example
Scenario: A patient is extremely anxious about local anaesthesia.
Task: Communicate effectively to explain the procedure and reduce their anxiety.
4. Medical Emergency Scenario (ORE Part 2)
Task: Respond to a simulated patient who has fainted during treatment.
Expected Actions:
Lay the patient flat
Raise their legs
Loosen tight clothing
Monitor airway, breathing, circulation
Record vital signs and document the event
Preparation is key, but avoiding common pitfalls can significantly boost your chances of success. Let’s take a closer look at frequent mistakes candidates make during both parts of the ORE exam.
Common Mistakes Candidates Make During the ORE Exams
Preparing well for the ORE is crucial, but being aware of common pitfalls can also make a significant difference. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes candidates make during the ORE exams — and practical tips on how to avoid them.
1. Inadequate Preparation for Clinical Scenarios (Part 2)
Many candidates underestimate the depth of clinical reasoning required. Memorizing textbook knowledge isn’t enough — you must apply it to real-world patient situations during OSCEs, dental manikin tasks, and treatment planning.
Tip: Practice simulated clinical cases and role-play scenarios to improve practical decision-making and patient communication.
2. Poor Time Management During Theory Papers (Part 1)
The computer-based Part 1 exam is time-pressured, with many candidates struggling to complete all MCQs and EMQs on time. Rushing through questions often leads to avoidable errors.
Tip: Train with timed mock exams to develop speed without sacrificing accuracy.
3. Incomplete Medical Emergency Responses (Part 2)
In Medical Emergencies stations, missing vital steps (e.g., forgetting to monitor breathing after an intervention) is a common reason for failure.
Tip: Memorise standard protocols (such as ABCDE approach) and practise them regularly under timed conditions.
4. Failing to Understand UK-Specific Laws and Ethics (Part 1 & 2)
Some candidates are unfamiliar with key legal frameworks like consent, patient confidentiality, safeguarding, and GDC standards, which are critical for passing the Law and Ethics sections.
Tip: Study GDC guidelines carefully and use official resources to stay updated with UK-specific practices.
5. Poor Manual Dexterity and Lack of Familiarity with Equipment (Part 2)
For dental manikin exercises (e.g., cavity preparations, crown preps), candidates often lose marks due to clumsy hand skills or unfamiliarity with UK-standard instruments and burs.
Tip: Practice extensively on manikins and attend hands-on ORE preparation courses whenever possible.
ORE Part 1 and Part 2 Exam Dates 2025 & Early 2026 and ORE Fees
The Overseas Registration Examination (ORE), conducted by the General Dental Council (GDC), is a two-part assessment for overseas qualified dentists seeking registration in the United Kingdom. It is held at specific times each year, and it’s crucial to plan your application well in advance due to high demand and limited availability.
Here are the confirmed ORE Part 1 and Part 2 exam dates for 2025 and early 2026, based on the latest General Dental Council (GDC) updates.
ORE Part 1 Exam Dates
August 2025 – 600 places available (Exact dates to be confirmed).
December 2025 – 600 places available (Exact dates to be confirmed).
April 2026 – 600 places available (Exact dates to be confirmed).
ORE Part 2 Exam Dates
August 2025 – 144 places available (Exact dates to be confirmed).
September 2025 – Increased availability due to GDC policy changes.
November 2025 – 144 places available (Exact dates to be confirmed).
January 2026 – 144 places available.
April 2026 – 144 places available.
Latest ORE Exam Costs (2025)
ORE Part 1: £584 (held at King’s College London) – 28% reduction from previous fees.
ORE Part 2: £4,235 (held at The Royal College of Surgeons of England, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, and other venues) – 45% increase in cost.
Medical Emergencies Retake: £566 – 32% increase in cost.
Important Booking Notes
Booking Process: Applications open approximately 8 weeks before each exam through eGDC.
Payment Required at Booking: Candidates must pay at the time of booking.
Exam Capacity:
ORE Part 1: 600 places per sitting.
ORE Part 2: 144 places per sitting.
GDC Updates: For the latest scheduling, visit the official GDC website.
Documents Required for the ORE Examination
Before applying for the ORE dental certification, candidates must ensure they gather all necessary documents in advance. Submitting a complete and accurate application is critical, as missing or incorrect documents are a leading cause of delays and application rejections.
Here’s what you must prepare:
Primary Dental Qualification Certificate
You must provide an official certificate confirming that you have successfully completed your dental degree from a recognized institution. If the certificate is not in English, a certified translation must be provided.
Transcript of Study
A detailed academic transcript listing the subjects studied, grades achieved, and the duration of the dental course is required. This helps the General Dental Council (GDC) assess the equivalence of your education to UK standards.
Certificate of Good Standing
If you are, or have been, registered with any dental regulatory bodies, you must submit a Certificate of Good Standing from each authority. This document must be recent (typically issued within the last three months) and confirm that there are no disciplinary actions pending against you.
English Language Proficiency
As dentistry in the UK requires excellent communication skills, you must prove your proficiency in English:
IELTS Academic: Overall score of 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in any band, or
OET (Occupational English Test): Grade B in all four sub-tests.
These certificates must be current, usually issued within two years of your application.
Proof of Clinical Experience
You must demonstrate at least 1,600 hours of clinical practice where you have directly treated patients. This can include supervised internships or work placements post-graduation. Experience must be verified through official letters from employers or supervisors, clearly outlining your responsibilities and dates of employment.
Additional Important Points:
Certified Copies: All documents must be certified by an approved authority, such as a solicitor or notary public, confirming that they are true copies of the originals.
Translations: Any documents not originally in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Photographic ID: A copy of your valid passport or national ID must also be included as part of your identity verification.
Desire2Study Tip: Start gathering these documents several months before the application window opens. Some institutions take time to issue transcripts or Good Standing certificates, and last-minute delays can jeopardize your eligibility for the upcoming ORE exam cycle.
How to Apply for the ORE Examination
Step-by-Step Registration:
Create GDC Account: Register via the official GDC website.
Submit Eligibility Application: Upload all necessary documentation.
Await Confirmation: Receive approval to book an exam.
Book ORE Part 1: Once approved, book your exam promptly.
Pass Part 1: Then apply and book Part 2 when eligible.
Slots are limited, so early registration after eligibility is critical.
Booking Your Exams After Passing ORE Part 1
Once you pass Part 1:
GDC sends an eligibility notification for Part 2.
You must secure a Part 2 booking swiftly — seats often sell out within minutes.
Booking typically occurs online through your GDC account.
Once booked, start focused preparation for practical tests.
Now that you're aware of the challenges and common errors, it's time to focus on strategies to strengthen your preparation and improve your exam performance.
Tips from Desire2Study for ORE Dental Registration
Preparing for the ORE dental exam is not only about academic knowledge — it’s also about maintaining focus, strategic preparation, and adapting to the high standards expected of dentists practicing in the UK. At Desire2Study, we understand the challenges international dentists face and offer guidance to help you navigate the path with confidence.
Motivation and Strategy Matter - From the initial desire to pursue a dental career in the UK, staying consistently motivated throughout the ORE examination cycles is crucial. The preparation journey can be long, requiring resilience, adaptability, and continuous self-improvement. Successful candidates are often those who combine a strong personal commitment with a clear, structured preparation strategy.
Remind yourself why you started — whether it’s a passion for delivering outstanding dental care, the goal of practicing in the NHS or private UK sector, or the desire to broaden your career prospects internationally. Keeping your end goal in sight helps maintain focus even during challenging periods.
Preparation Tips for ORE Examination Success
Here are our top tips for graduates who wants to pass ORE Exams:
Join an ORE Exam Course
Professional preparation courses are highly recommended. A comprehensive ORE exam course not only covers theoretical knowledge but also provides hands-on practice for clinical skills required in Part 2. Courses help candidates familiarize themselves with the examination format, develop practical techniques, and simulate real exam scenarios under timed conditions.
Practice Past Papers Extensively
Working through previous ORE exam papers, especially Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) and Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), is essential. Regular practice builds familiarity with the question style, sharpens clinical reasoning skills, and improves speed and accuracy during Part 1.
Simulate Clinical Scenarios
For Part 2, focus on practical training. Regularly practicing Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) stations, dental manikin exercises, and medical emergencies simulations will enhance your clinical confidence. Try to replicate the timed nature of the real exam during practice sessions.
Focus on Your Weaknesses
Honest self-assessment is critical. Identify weaker subjects or clinical skills early on and allocate additional time to strengthen them. Whether it’s restorative procedures, patient communication, or managing medical emergencies, targeted practice ensures balanced preparation across all exam components.
Stay Updated with GDC Announcements
The General Dental Council (GDC) occasionally updates ORE policies, exam formats, and scheduling. Regularly check the GDC website for official updates, changes to exam structures, or new guidelines introduced, especially following the changes implemented in 2024 to expand exam capacity.
Structured preparation is the bridge between holding an overseas dental qualification and meeting the rigorous standards expected in the UK. It’s not just about passing the ORE exams — it's about building the professional competence and confidence needed to thrive as a practicing dentist in the UK healthcare system.
Differences Between ORE and LDS Exams
Many confuse the ORE with the Licensure in Dental Surgery (LDS) exams, but they differ. The ORE (Overseas Registration Exam) and LDS (Licence in Dental Surgery) are both recognized pathways for internationally qualified dentists to register with the UK’s General Dental Council (GDC). While both assess clinical skills and theoretical knowledge to UK standards, the ORE is directly administered by the GDC, whereas the LDS is organized by the Royal College of Surgeons of England. The format, availability of exam dates, and application processes differ slightly. Generally, ORE offers more exam sittings annually, while LDS has limited spaces and additional eligibility criteria. Candidates often apply for both to maximize their chances of UK registration.
Both exams qualify overseas dentists for UK practice, but the ORE examination is often considered more accessible due to broader availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the ORE examination?
The ORE (Overseas Registration Examination) assesses overseas dentists' readiness to practice in the UK safely and effectively.
2. How many times can I attempt the ORE exams?
You can attempt each part a maximum of four times.
3. How long is the ORE exam process?
Depending on preparation and available exam dates, the process typically takes 12–24 months.
4. Are there courses available for ORE exam preparation?
Yes, multiple institutes offer specialized ORE exam courses focusing on Part 1 and Part 2 skills.
5. What is the difference between ORE and LDS exams?
While both qualify you to practice dentistry in the UK, they differ in exam structure, organizing body, and frequency of availability.
