Frequently Asked Questions

The ORE is a licensing examination for non-EU/EEA qualified dentists who wish to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and practise in the UK. It assesses a candidate’s ability to apply clinical knowledge and skills at the level expected of a newly qualified UK dentist.

The exam consists of:

• ORE Part 1 – A theory-based written examination.

• ORE Part 2 – A practical examination assessing clinical skills.

The ORE is required for dentists trained outside the UK, EU, or EEA who wish to obtain GDC registration. Dentists who hold EU/EEA qualifications may be eligible for direct registration without taking the ORE.

To check if your qualification requires the ORE, you must apply for an assessment with the General Dental Council (GDC).

To sit the ORE, candidates must:

• Hold a recognised dental qualification from a non-EU/EEA country.

• Provide evidence of English language proficiency (typically an IELTS Academic score of 7.0 in all componentsor equivalent).

• Pass the GDC’s initial assessment process, including document verification.

• Pay the required examination fees.

Once eligibility is confirmed, candidates can book their examination.

ORE Part 1 is a theory-based examination consisting of:

• Two computer-based papers covering applied clinical science and human disease.

• Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) assessing knowledge of diagnosis, treatment planning, ethics, and evidence-based dentistry.

Candidates must pass Part 1 before they can attempt ORE Part 2.

ORE Part 2 is a practical examination that tests clinical skills through:

• Manikin-based exercises to assess operative dentistry skills.

• Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) to test problem-solving, diagnosis, and communication.

• Medical emergencies assessment to ensure candidates can respond appropriately.

Part 2 must be passed within five years of passing Part 1.

The total duration depends on examination availability and preparation time, but generally:

• ORE Part 1 is offered multiple times per year.

• ORE Part 2 has limited sittings due to high demand, so early booking is recommended.

• The overall process may take 1.5 – 3 years from initial application to GDC registration.

Timely preparation and early booking are crucial to completing the process efficiently.

As of 1 January 2025, the updated examination fees are:

• ORE Part 1: £584

• ORE Part 2: £4,235

• Medical Emergencies (ME) Retake: £566

Additional costs may include:

• GDC application fees.

• Travel and accommodation expenses for Part 2.

• Preparation courses and study materials.

For the latest updates, check the GDC website at gdc-uk.org.

Once you pass both Part 1 and Part 2, you can:

• Apply for full registration with the GDC.

• Start working as a general dental practitioner in the UK (NHS or private practice).

• Apply for postgraduate training or specialisation if desired.

Newly registered dentists often begin working as associate dentists in NHS or private practices before progressing in their careers.

Effective preparation includes:

• Enrolling in an ORE preparation course with structured guidance.

• Practising mock exams and clinical scenarios.

• Strengthening communication and problem-solving skills for OSCEs.

• Reviewing NHS guidelines, GDC standards, and UK dental laws.

Knightsbridge Academy offers comprehensive ORE training, including Part 1 and Part 2 preparation, mock exams, and clinical training.

Some of the biggest challenges include:

• High competition for exam bookings, particularly for Part 2, making early preparation essential.

• Adjusting to UK dental protocols and regulations.

• Performing well in OSCEs, which test patient communication and critical thinking.

Enrolling in a structured training programme can significantly improve success rates.