What A levels Do You Need for Dentistry?
Let’s explore the essential A levels that you need in order to study dentistry at university.
What a levels do you need For Dentistry?
Applying to study dentistry at university is an incredibly competitive degree subject. There are fewer dental schools than medical schools; for example, neither the University of Oxford nor the University of Cambridge have undergraduate dental programmes.
This makes admissions competitive.
To study dentistry in the UK, you’ll typically need:
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A level Chemistry and Biology – both are essential at virtually all dental schools
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A third A level in Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, or Psychology is highly recommended.
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Typical offers range from AAA to A*AA, depending on the university
| University | A-Levels Required For Dentistry | Scottish Highers Required For Dentistry | IB Required For Dentistry |
|---|---|---|---|
| King’s College London | A*AA (Biology/Chemistry + 1 science) | AAAAA | 35 (HL Biology/Chemistry at 6 + 1 science at 6) |
| University of Glasgow | AAA (Biology, Chemistry) | AAAAB (Biology, Chemistry) | 36 (HL Biology, Chemistry at 6) |
| University of Bristol | AAA (Chemistry + 1 science) | AAAAB (Chemistry + 1 science at AH) | 36 (HL Chemistry + 1 science at 6) |
| University of Sheffield | AAA (Biology, Chemistry) | AAAAB (Biology, Chemistry) | 36 (HL Biology, Chemistry at 6) |
| Cardiff University | AAA (Biology, Chemistry) | AAAAA (2 sciences) | 36 (HL Biology, Chemistry at 6) |
| University of Dundee | AAA (Biology, Chemistry) | AAAAB (Biology, Chemistry preferred) | 37 (HL Biology, Chemistry at 6) |
first steps to applying to dentistry at university
The best first step is to check the degree requirements of the universities you are interested in.
For example, most universities have comprehensive subject pages on their websites where they state the required A level subjects.
They also state the other factors they look for in candidates. Below are what some universities stipulate their entry requirements are.
kings college london dentistry entry requirements
King’s College London accepts applicants to study dentistry at the undergraduate level. To apply they require:
- At least a grade A in A level Biology or A level Chemistry.
- At least a grade of A in one of the following A level subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Psychology.
university of sheffield dentistry requirements
The University of Sheffield accepts applicants to study dentistry at the undergraduate level. To apply they require:
- Predicted marks of AAB
- Students must receive a grade A in A level Biology and A level Chemistry
- Students must receive at least a grade B in Dentistry or health related EPQ.
postgraduate dentistry at universities
Some universities do not offer undergraduate dentistry study, but they do offer postgraduate dentistry. For example, King’s College London offers a graduate dentistry programme.
Their requirements are a minimum 2:1 in your undergraduate degree in a Biosciences subject.
This means at A level, science subjects such as A level Chemistry and A level Biology would be expected.
Additional requirements to study dentistry
Alongside strong A level grades, most dental schools also require:
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UCAT or BMAT – Admissions tests used to assess aptitude for clinical training
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A well-written personal statement – Should show motivation, relevant skills, and understanding of dentistry as a profession
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Work experience – Volunteering in a dental practice, care setting, or healthcare environment is often expected
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Interview – Most universities use structured interviews or MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews)
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Common topics include:
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Why dentistry?
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Ethical scenarios
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Manual dexterity and teamwork
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Reflection on work experience
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Strong communication skills and a realistic understanding of the profession are essential throughout the application process.
What a levels should you take to study dentistry?
Given the examples of entry requirements from top U.K. universities, taking A level Chemistry and A level Biology is essential for applying to dentistry degrees.
For your third A level, deciding between A level Mathematics, A level Further Mathematics, and A level Physics and A level Psychology is advised.
Achieving your dreams with greene’s college oxford
At Greene’s we offer the A level subjects necessary to allow you to apply to dentistry at university.
From A level Chemistry to A level Psychology, we are happy to support individualised education that sets you up for success in your applications.
Through our Tutorial Method of Learning, every student receives individual attention from an experienced tutor With individual attention, tutors can identify any areas of difficulty or misunderstanding and give students the extra guidance they need. Not only this, but the tutorial method is very adaptable to best suit your needs and interests.
The tutor can adjust their teaching style to the student’s needs. They can adapt study plans to ensure the student is receiving the most comprehensive support. This allows the student to learn at their own pace and get the most out of their studies.
FAQs
No, Chemistry is essential. Nearly all UK dental schools require A level Chemistry. Most also expect Biology as a second science. Without Chemistry, your options will be extremely limited, though some foundation year programmes may offer a potential route in.
If you’re interested in oral health or healthcare but don’t pursue dentistry, consider:
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Dental hygiene and therapy
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Biomedical sciences
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Pharmacology
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Medicine or nursing
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Dental technology
These courses can still lead to careers in clinical, research, or allied health fields.
Yes, most dental schools expect relevant work experience. This could include time spent:
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Observing in a dental practice
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Volunteering in healthcare or care settings
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Gaining insight into patient care and teamwork
Work experience shows commitment, and you’ll be expected to reflect on it in your personal statement and interview.
It’s possible, but less common. Some universities accept:
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BTEC National Extended Diploma in science (with high grades)
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Access to HE Diploma
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International qualifications, such as the IB with Chemistry and Biology
Always check specific entry requirements, as alternatives to A levels are accepted on a case-by-case basis.
