The examination for qualified dentists from overseas (Overseas Registration Exam)

The Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) tests the clinical skills and knowledge of dentists from outside the European Economic Area whose qualifications are not recognised for full registration with the GDC here in the UK.  Candidates are tested against the standard expected of graduate dentists when they first register with the GDC.  This means that UK graduates and overseas dentists are expected to have the same basic knowledge and skills.

The ORE replaces the International Qualifying Examination (IQE). The IQE has now finished and there will be no more sittings of this examination. All candidates, including those who were unable to pass the IQE should now take the ORE as their route to registration with the GDC.

The examination is based on the UK dental curriculum and uses modern assessment methods to ensure a robust and consistent examination. Dentists who pass this examination become eligible to apply for full registration to practise in the UK.

You should use our  questionnaire to see whether the ORE is your route to registration.  It is important that you use this questionnaire as it may reveal whether you are eligible to apply for registration without taking the examination.

Get the application pack for the new Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) from the application pack section.