Student FAQs
Here you can find the answers to some key questions relating to student professionalism and student fitness to practise.
If you have any other questions please get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Are the standards expected of students the same for different courses and subjects/registant categories?
Does the GDC get involved with student fitness to practise issues?
I am worried out raising concerns about something I have seen on my course. What should I do? I am just a student, so is this my responsibility?
I think I have made quite a big mistake and I am worried if I own up and I will be thrown off my course. What should I do?
Should I be worried about what I post on social media?
View our guidance on social media here. Remember that, as a student of a profession that is regulated, your position is different to other students who will not enter professional regulation upon completion of their course.
You must take care with the information and images you and others share online:
You must always respect patient confidentiality.
You should not post or share any content which could cause offence to anyone – including patients, colleagues and members of the general public – or which may cause people to lose their trust in student dental professionals.
Look at the guidelines on your course, NHS guidelines and familiarise yourself with the our social media guidance. Think about what you would worry about if you were a patient. Test yourself using our case studies to see if you know the right thing to do in different situations.
What I need to know about my health as a student dental professional?
- be aware that your own health conditions may put patients and colleagues at risk.
- seek advice if there is a concern about your health.
What do patients expect of students compared to registrants?
What is student fitness to practise?
- Clinical/technical and academic work
- Professional behaviour
- Health
These areas reflect those that the GDC requires you to meet as a registrant once you qualify, join the register and start practising. These registration requirements are in place to protect patients.