Dental schools in Canada offer world-class education but are among the most competitive programs to enter. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from the list of all dental schools in Canada to GPA requirements, DAT scores, personal statements, and more. We also include application tips and what to expect after graduation.

For more help preparing your application, check out our guides on dental school personal statements and DAT preparation.

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Article Contents
2 min read
Dental Schools in Canada: Top Programs & How to Get In 1. List of Dental Schools in Canada 2. Requirements for Dental Schools in Canada 3. Application Process for Canadian Dental Schools 4. How to Stand Out as an Applicant 5. What to Expect in Dental School 6. Life After Dental School in Canada 7. FAQs: Dental Schools in Canada

Dental Schools in Canada: Top Programs & How to Get In

Want to become a dentist in Canada? You're in the right place. There are 10 dental schools in Canada — each with competitive admissions and rigorous academic requirements. In this post, we’ll break down:

  • Every dental school in Canada
  • Admission requirements (GPA, DAT, etc.)
  • How to apply and when
  • What makes a strong dental school application
  • Career paths after graduation

List of Dental Schools in Canada

Requirements for Dental Schools in Canada

Admission to dental school is highly competitive. Here’s what you need to know:

Academic Requirements

  • Undergraduate Degree: Most programs require 3–4 years of university.
  • GPA: Competitive applicants have GPAs of 3.7+, though minimums vary by school.
  • Prerequisites: Generally include:
  • Biology
  • General & Organic Chemistry
  • Physics
  • English
  • Some schools may require Biochemistry or Anatomy

DAT (Dental Aptitude Test)

  • Administered by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA)
  • Sections: Natural Sciences, Perceptual Ability, Reading Comprehension, and Manual Dexterity
  • Some schools weigh DAT heavily; others consider it alongside GPA

CASPer Test

  • Used by some schools (like UofT)
  • Assesses ethical decision-making and personal characteristics

Application Process for Canadian Dental Schools

Timeline:

  • DAT Registration: Spring/Fall
  • Application Opens: Typically late summer
  • Application Deadline: Fall or early winter (varies by school)
  • Interviews: Winter
  • Offers Released: Early spring

Required Materials:

  • Academic transcripts
  • DAT scores
  • CASPer (if required)
  • Personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Interview performance

 Pro Tip: Always double-check deadlines and requirements on each school’s official admissions page.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

1. Score High on the DAT

  • Start studying early
  • Use practice tests and prep courses
  • Pay attention to Perceptual Ability and Manual Dexterity sections

2. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

  • Talk about your passion for dentistry
  • Show your understanding of the profession
  • Be specific and authentic
  • Link to school values where possible

Read our full guide on writing a winning dental school personal statement.

3. Get Real Experience

  • Shadow dentists
  • Volunteer in clinics or community health events
  • Join dental societies or clubs

4. Prepare for the Interview

  • Practice MMI (Multiple Mini Interviews) or panel-style interviews
  • Stay current on ethical scenarios in dentistry
  • Reflect on your values and communication style

What to Expect in Dental School

Dental school in Canada is 4 years (except Université de Montréal, which is 5 years). Here's a snapshot of what you’ll experience:

  • Year 1–2: Foundational sciences, lab work, simulations
  • Year 3–4: Clinical rotations, patient care, specialty exposure
  • Final Year: National licensing exams (NDEB), career prep

Life After Dental School in Canada

Once you graduate:

  • You must pass the National Dental Examining Board (NDEB) written and OSCE exams
  • Apply for provincial licensure
  • Consider general practice, or specialty programs (e.g. orthodontics, endodontics)
  • Explore options in research, academia, or public health

Final Thoughts

Getting into dental school in Canada is no small feat, but with careful preparation, it’s absolutely possible. Start early, aim high on the DAT, build strong experiences, and tell your story well in your application.

  • Need help with your dental school application? Book a free strategy call with us — we’ll help you every step of the way.

7. FAQs: Dental Schools in Canada

1. What GPA do I need for dental school in Canada?

Most successful applicants have GPA 3.7+, especially in science courses.

2. Is DAT required for all Canadian dental schools?

Yes. All dental schools in Canada require the DAT, although score weighting varies.

3. How many dental schools are there in Canada?

There are 10 accredited dental schools in Canada across six provinces.

4. Do dental schools in Canada accept international students?

Some do, but international applicants face higher tuition and limited spots.

5. Do I need a bachelor’s degree to apply?

Most schools require 3–4 years of undergrad, though Université de Montréal accepts some students directly from high school.

6. What is the difference between DDS and DMD?

There is no difference. DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are equivalent degrees.

7. Which school is easiest to get into?

All dental schools in Canada are highly competitive. There is no “easy” one — but applying broadly increases your chances.

8. How long is dental school in Canada?

Most programs are 4 years, except for Université de Montréal’s 5-year program.

To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting

tags: Dental Schools in Canada, Dental School, College Application