What IELTS score do dentists need for the GDC?

IELTS is one of four routine types of evidence. The others are a recent primary dental qualification taught and examined entirely in English (with a structured reference showing at least 75% of your clinical interaction was in English), a recent pass in a language test for registration with a regulator in a country where English is the first language, and recent experience of practising in such a country. 'Recent' means less than two years old when you submit your application.

The GDC defines a country where English is the first language as one on the UK government's list of countries exempt from proving English for British citizenship and settlement. If your other evidence does not satisfy it, the GDC directs you to IELTS Academic at the Table 1 scores.

The guidance asks for a single, original, stamped and signed IELTS Test Report Form that is usually no more than two years old when you submit it. Combining two sittings is not described by the GDC. It may accept older scores if you show your English has not deteriorated, for example through a postgraduate course taught and examined in English or practice in a country where English is the first language.

If you qualified outside the EEA, the GDC assesses your English with your qualifications, and if you must sit the Overseas Registration Exam you need satisfactory evidence of English before you are allowed to sit it. Visa requirements are not stated by the GDC. Regulators change these rules, sometimes at short notice. Confirm the current scores on the GDC page before you book a test.