Studying dentistry in China involves pursuing a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Stomatology degree. Top schools like Peking University and Sichuan University offer globally recognized programs with modern facilities for international students.
Study dentistry (BDS) in China: top stomatology universities, curriculum, costs, recognition and career path.
Dentistry is one of the growing English-taught medical fields in China. For international students, a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) at a Chinese dental university costs far less than in the West while training in modern, busy teaching hospitals.
Why study dentistry in China
- Affordable — USD 4,000–6,000/year tuition
- English-taught BDS at several stomatology universities
- Large patient volume in teaching hospitals — strong clinical experience
- Modern facilities — many Chinese dental schools have been recently rebuilt
- WHO-listed and recognized by several national dental councils
Top universities for dentistry
- Sichuan University — West China College of Stomatology — China's top dental school
- Peking University School of Stomatology
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University — College of Stomatology
- Wuhan University School of Stomatology
- Nanjing Medical University
- Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou)
- China Medical University (Shenyang)
What you will study
A 5-year BDS covers basic medical sciences, oral anatomy, dental materials, operative dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, radiology, plus a clinical internship year. Some programs add basic Chinese for patient communication.
Admission
- High school diploma with strong biology and chemistry
- IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+
- Minimum age 17 by enrollment
- Some universities require an interview
- Application window: January–May for September intake
Recognition
Dental degrees from listed Chinese universities are recognized in many countries, but licensing to practice always requires passing your home country's dental council exam. Always verify recognition with your national dental council before enrolling (DCI, PMDC, GDC, ADA, etc.).
Career outcomes
Graduates return home to sit national licensing exams, work in private or public dental practice, or continue into specialty master's programs. Some stay in China for a master's in oral surgery, orthodontics or prosthodontics.
For students who want a recognized dental degree at an affordable price with strong clinical training, China is now one of the most practical options in Asia.
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The StudyInChina Education Team is a group of admissions advisors, scholarship specialists and former international students who have guided thousands of applicants into Chinese universities. This article is reviewed for accuracy and updated regularly.
Last updated 15 Aug 2026
