If you are a Canadian student who wants to become a dentist, your options are clear but competitive. There are 10 dental schools in Canada, and each one sets its own rules. Learning those rules early helps you plan your courses, tests, and experiences without last-minute surprises.
In this guide, you will see the full list of dental schools in Canada and the most common dental schools admission requirements. You will also learn how the application process differs from the US system and how to build experience that supports your goals. Requirements change often, so treat this guide as a starting point and confirm details on each school's website.
The 10 dental schools in Canada
The Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry (ACFD) lists these member schools:
- University of British Columbia, Faculty of Dentistry (Vancouver, BC)
- University of Alberta, Mike Petryk School of Dentistry (Edmonton, AB)
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry (Saskatoon, SK)
- University of Manitoba, Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry (Winnipeg, MB)
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Dentistry (Toronto, ON)
- Western University, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (London, ON)
- McGill University, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences (Montreal, QC)
- Université de Montréal, Faculté de médecine dentaire (Montreal, QC)
- Université Laval, Faculté de médecine dentaire (Quebec City, QC)
- Dalhousie University, Faculty of Dentistry (Halifax, NS)
Programs lead to a DDS or DMD degree. Both degrees prepare you for the same profession. Université de Montréal and Université Laval teach in French, so language matters when you build your list.
Dental schools admission requirements in Canada
Academic requirements
Canadian dental schools expect some university study before you apply. The amount varies. The University of Toronto Scarborough's career centre notes that U of T requires three years of university and sets a minimum GPA. Other schools accept applicants at different stages.
Prerequisite courses also vary. Many schools list biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. Some add physiology, statistics, or English. Check the list for every school you are considering during your first year, so you can plan your schedule.
The Canadian DAT
Most Canadian schools have used the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) in admissions. The Canadian version is administered by the Canadian Dental Association. It differs from the American DAT. Test policies have shifted at some schools in recent cycles, so confirm whether each school requires the DAT and which version it accepts.
Non-academic requirements
Grades are only part of the picture. Depending on the school, you may also need:
- An interview, sometimes in the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) format
- A situational judgment test, such as Casper
- An autobiographical sketch, essays, or a list of activities
- Letters of reference
Several schools also give weight to residency in their province or region. Read each school's policy closely, especially if you plan to apply outside your home province.
How applying works
Canada does not have one national application service for dentistry. In most cases, you apply directly to each school through its own system and timeline. Some schools also accept other routes. The University of Toronto, for example, accepts applications through its own system or through ADEA AADSAS.
Because each school runs its own process, deadlines and fees differ too. Build a simple calendar with every school's opening date, deadline, test requirements, and document list. Review it each term so nothing slips past you.
How to build a strong application from Canada
Strong applicants show that they understand dentistry and care about people. Shadowing, volunteering, and community involvement all help you learn what the profession requires. Choose experiences you can stay with over time and speak about with detail.
International service can also be part of your plan when it is ethical and supervised. Our guide to choosing a provider from Canada explains what to look for. On a Smiles Movement dental service learning trip, students support local dental professionals and take part in oral health education in partner communities.
Cost is a real concern for many students. These budgeting tips for Canadian students and ideas to fundraise for dental volunteer work can help you plan ahead.
Take your next step toward dentistry
Planning early gives you more choices later. If you want to gain experience alongside dental professionals during a school break, Smiles Movement programs are open to students from Canada. Fill out the form below to get more information about upcoming programs and trip dates.
Frequently asked questions about dental schools in Canada
How many dental schools are there in Canada?
There are 10 accredited dental schools in Canada, located in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
Do all Canadian dental schools require the DAT?
Not always in the same way. Most have used the Canadian DAT, but policies change. Check each school's current admissions page before you register.
Can Canadian students apply to US dental schools?
Yes. Many Canadian students apply to US schools through ADEA AADSAS. Some US schools accept the Canadian DAT, so confirm each school's testing policy.