Obtaining a dental degree abroad does come with its fair share of challenges, most notably, ensuring that your program is fully accredited in your home country (or that the credits can be transferred to an accredited college at home). If your degree program is not recognized in your home country, it will mean even more schooling (upwards of an additional two to three years) upon your arrival back home.
Then there’s the added stress that dentistry degree programs aren’t just uber competitive in your country, dental degree programs are uber competitive EVERYWHERE. All dental schools have a finite amount of slots that they fill each year. Applying to more dental schools will increase your odds of getting in, but expect just as much, if not more, competition at English-speaking international dentistry degree programs, who tend to receive applicants from all over the world while reserving a good deal of these spots for their own citizens.
On the plus side, once you have gotten into your dream dentistry degree program, these programs can often be much cheaper than programs in your home country, particularly ones located in Eastern Europe (of which there are a number to choose), even with the additional years of study. And with student debt continually on the rise, price is definitely a factor to consider carefully.
While you may find that living in a different country can be cheaper than your own (especially in a smaller city), living abroad will also help you take advantage of (read: spend) that cash burning a hole in your pocket. Earning a degree abroad means lots of added opportunities for touring/eating/adventuring around your new home and exploring a new culture, which also means a whole lot more reasons to smile.
Don’t let your degree choice hinder your ability or desire to explore a new location or culture. Embrace (and combine) your passions to make your dream of becoming a dental professional/world explorer a reality by finding the right dentistry abroad program for you today.
