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English Language Requirements

The GDC has to be satisfied that your English is strong enough to treat patients safely before it will register you. Most overseas dentists prove this with the academic IELTS, but there are accepted alternatives if a language test does not fit your background.

The accepted test

IELTS Academic

Required score

Overall 7.0, with at least 6.5 in each of the four components

Validity

Report must be under 2 years old

Worth knowing

The academic IELTS is the only language test the GDC accepts, with test centres in most countries.

A word on the OET

This is where dentistry differs from medicine and nursing. Unlike the GMC and the NMC, the GDC does not accept the Occupational English Test. If you have sat the OET for another UK healthcare regulator, it will not count towards GDC registration.

  • For the GDC, plan for the academic IELTS at an overall 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each of the four sections, or one of the accepted alternatives below.
  • The IELTS is available in more places and has more test dates, which helps if you are preparing from outside the UK.

Accepted alternatives to a test

You may not need to sit the IELTS at all. The GDC can accept any of the following as evidence.

  • A primary dental qualification that was taught and examined entirely in English
  • Passing the language test of another English-speaking regulator that the GDC accepts
  • Recent continuous practice in a majority English-speaking country
  • A structured reference confirming that at least 75% of your patient interactions were in English

Check the official page

The GDC is currently reviewing its English language guidance, so the accepted scores and routes could change. Confirm the current rules before you book a test or gather evidence.

English language controls on the GDC website
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