How to apply to the UCSF International Dentist Pathway (IDP) – DDS Program
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How to apply to the UCSF International Dentist Pathway (IDP) – DDS Program

The UCSF International Dentist Pathway (IDP) accepts applications through the American Dental Education Association Centralized Application for Advanced Placement for International Dentists (ADEA CAAPID). The application opens March 6 and must be submitted electronically by June 16, 11:59 p.m. EST. Early submission is strongly recommended to allow sufficient time to complete all materials. Late applications will not be considered.

    • Submit your main application via ADEA CAAPID.
    • Complete UCSF’s supplemental questions in the ADEA CAAPID school section. These biographical statements help us understand your preparation for practicing dentistry in the U.S., clinical experience, problem-solving abilities, and unique background. Each question has a 1500-character limit. Questions include:
      1. How have you prepared yourself for learning and practicing dentistry in the U.S.?
      2. Describe a time you made a mistake while practicing dentistry. What was the situation and your role? What did you learn?
      3. Outside of dentistry, please share something unique about your background that would benefit others in the IDP program.
      4. What is your experience in indirect or direct restoration in your dental education? (e.g., amalgam, composites, rubber dam).
      5. What materials/techniques have you used or were taught in your education for direct and indirect restorative dentistry?
      6. What significant dental experiences have you had in the past three years? (list 2-3). If none, please indicate how you have kept up with your dental skills.
    • Upload a course-by-course evaluation from World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) and copy of your international transcripts via the ADEA CAAPID application.
    • If selected for an interview, you must send official transcripts to UCSF directly from all international institutions. Notarized copies are not accepted.

  • Submit official test scores via the ADEA CAAPID application.

    • National Board Dental Examination (NBDE or INBDE): Passing Part 1 & 2 is optional but strongly recommended.
    • TOEFL: Minimum 95 iBT required; home-based exams and MyBest scores are accepted. Scores must be from within two years of the opening of the application cycle.
    • Submit three letters via the ADEA CAAPID application
      1. Clinician supervisor
      2. Academic faculty from your home institution (within 5 years of graduation; if unavailable, submit two professional letters)
      3. One letter can be from an individual of your choice
    • Letters must include electronic signature and contact information.

  • Upload a current CV through the ADEA CAAPID application.

  • Submit a non-refundable $200 USD fee via UCSF’s online payment system. Checks are not accepted.

  • Clinical experience is not required but recommended to strengthen your application.