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Dentist wearing a mask examines a patient's teeth with tools in a dental clinic. Patient is reclining, setting is clean and professional.

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Are you or your child dreaming of a career in dentistry but struggling to secure a place in Ireland? With limited spots, high CAO points requirements, many Irish students are looking beyond Ireland options — and discovering high-quality, English-taught dentistry degrees abroad in Europe.


At Desire2Study, we’ve helped many students to find affordable, accredited alternatives across the EU. This guide explains why studying dentistry abroad might be the right fit — and how you can make it happen with the right support.


Why Irish Students Are Choosing Dentistry in Europe?


Dentistry is one of the most competitive university courses in Ireland. Each year, thousands of students apply — but fewer than 100 places are available across two Irish universities where can you study dentistry in Ireland:

  • University College Cork (UCC)

  • Trinity College Dublin (TCD)


If you missed the CAO cut-off or you have a low CAO points to study dentistry, you still have great options abroad.


Here’s why more Irish students are turning to Europe:


  • More flexible entry requirements (Leaving Cert or A-Levels accepted)

  • No need to apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO)

  • English-taught programs across top European universities

  • Affordable tuition compared to Irish private degrees or graduate entry

  • Globally and EU-recognized qualifications, meaning graduates can return to Ireland to work


Top Dentistry Universities in Europe for Irish Students


Desire2Study partners only with recognized, accredited European universities that offer dentistry in English and support international students.


Here are some of the best universities and countries that offer English-taught dentistry programs in Europe. Each of these universities provides excellent theoretical and practical training, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers as dentists.


Poznan University of Medical Sciences (Poland)

PUMS is located in Poznan, Poland, this university is one of the top medical schools in Central Europe. It has a strong reputation in dental education, with modern facilities and excellent research opportunities.


Pavol Jozef Safarik University (Slovakia)

Situated in Kosice, Slovakia, this university is well known for its English-language medical and dental programs. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized education, and early clinical exposure.


University of Pecs Medical School (Hungary)

One of Hungary’s leading medical universities, the University of Pecs offers a highly regarded dentistry program. The university has state-of-the-art simulation labs and strong international partnerships, giving students excellent clinical training and exchange opportunities.


Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (Lithuania)

LSMU located in Kaunas, Lithuania, provides a competitive dentistry program focused on practical training, research, and international career opportunities. It has a high acceptance rate for international students and strong connections with dental institutions across Europe.


Riga Stradins University (Latvia)

One of the top medical schools in the Baltic region, Riga Stradins University in Latvia is a popular choice for international students. It offers a 5-year dentistry program in English, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice and research. The university is known for its modern dental clinics and international faculty.


European University (Spain)

Located in Madrid and Valencia, Spain, European University is a top choice for international students pursuing a dentistry degree in English. The university provides modern clinical facilities, experienced faculty, and strong industry partnerships, ensuring students gain hands-on experience in real dental settings.


All of these universities:


  • Offer 5-year dentistry programs in English

  • Provide modern teaching hospitals and clinics

  • Are recognized by the Irish Dental Council or eligible for registration

  • Have supported hundreds of international students, including Irish applicants



Dentistry Entry Requirements & Admissions: What You Need


Most European dentistry universities make admission easier than in Ireland — without compromising on quality.


General Entry Requirements include:

  • Leaving Certificate with Biology or Science subjects

  • Minimum grades: vary depending on the country and university but we have many options available.

  • No HPAT required

  • Proof of English proficiency (Leaving Cert English usually accepted)

  • Entrance exam (biology + chemistry) may be required for some universities


At Desire2Study, we guide you and your child through every step — from preparing documents to booking exams, translating records, and applying directly to universities.


Med Schools in Europe Tuition Fees


While private dentistry courses (or graduate entry) in Ireland can cost over €30,000 per year, most dentistry programs in Europe are far more affordable.


  • Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU) – Lithuania – from €13,600/year

  • Riga Stradins University – Latvia – €15,500/year

  • University of Pécs – Hungary – $17,350/year

  • Poznań University of Medical Sciences – Poland – from €17,400/year

  • Pavol Jozef Šafárik University – Slovakia – €13,500/year

  • European University – Spain – €21,000/year

  • Palacký University – Czechia – €14,000/year


We help you budget and plan every detail — including tuition fees, living costs, flights, accommodation, and insurance.


Dentistry Degrees from Europe Recognition in Ireland – Can You Return to Work?


Yes. As long as you graduate from an EU-recognised university, you are eligible to:


  • Register with the Irish Dental Council

  • Apply for internships or postgraduate training

  • Begin your career as a fully qualified dentist in Ireland, or anywhere in the EU


Dentistry degrees from our partner universities comply with Directive 2005/36/EC, which ensures recognition across Europe.

 

How Desire2Study Supports Parents and Students?


We understand that sending your child abroad is a big decision.


At Desire2Study, we offer:

  • A specialist, student‑focused model, not a one-size-fits-all approach

  • Tailored support as needed per the student

  • Expert guidance rooted in strong partnerships with English-taught med schools in Europe offering globally recognized qualifications

  • Transparent, fair pricing and ongoing support — long before application and during studies.


If you’re serious about dentistry abroad, do it with confidence and contact us now. We’ve helped hundreds of families across Ireland and other countries— our student parents say they feel confident and reassured with our service.


100% our students last year managed to secure a place in a dentistry university in Europe.


Contact Desire2Study to Explore Your Options


Don’t let low CAO points limit your dream. With the right guidance, you or your child can start dentistry this year — in a fully accredited, English-speaking university in Europe.


 

FAQs – Study Dentistry in Europe from Ireland


Is a dentistry degree from Europe valid in Ireland?

Yes. All EU-accredited degrees from our partner universities are recognized by the Irish Dental Council.


Can I apply without HPAT?

Yes. HPAT is not required for dentistry in Europe , exactly the same as in Ireland.


How do I apply to study dentistry abroad?

Desire2Study handles your application, checks all documents, prepares students for interview and entrance exams, helps with document legalizations, visas and residence permits.


When should I apply?

Applications usually open from January to August each year — but places at some universities are limited and fill fast. The earlier, the better! But We helped students in August and a month later they were able to study dentistry abroad.


What are monthly living costs for students?

Your monthly costs, including food, accommodation, transport, entertainment will be around €500-1000 per month depending on the country and your living style.


Do you need high CAO points for dentistry abroad?

No, as majority of the dental schools in Europe has entry interviews and exams which you have to pass.


Where can you study dentistry in Ireland?

There are only two dental schools in Ireland - University College Cork (UCC) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) with limited spaces available.

 
 
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