Steps for Foreign Dentist to become Dentist in USA

Get the Passport first



Following are the steps,



(the forum has topics on all of this, please research/read the topics first. You can always post question and someone from the forum will answer)



1) TOEFL (English test - really easy compared to other exams and can be given in most countries)



2) Try to give the NBDE parts in the internship year. Or atleast just after becoming a dentist in your country. Obtain visitor visa to US or Canada to give the NBDE parts



3) Clear NBDE Part 1 (Expensive and can be currently given only in US or Canada)



4) Clear NBDE part 2 (Same as above. Preferable to give this exam to maximize chance as more and more universities are asking for it now.)



5) Research the universities (list is in useful attachments, be sure to visit the program's website to get uptodate information) to apply



6) Get excellent recommendation letters from your dental college. Your personal statement is very important. Any national/international articles presented, volunteering activities and leadership position will help making a very strong personal statement.



7) Apply to the universities.



8 Now a days programs call for face to face interviews and bench exams. September thru March. Attend interviews.



9) Once you get admission letter from US get student visa. You will have to show funds (money) to pay for the education in order to get the visa.



10) Network thru this forum to find others who got admitted in the same university. They may later become your room mates. It is generally cheaper to stay along with room mates in an apartment over staying in a dorm.



11) Computers are cheap in USA. You will need one for your studies here some schools tell you to buy from them.



12) Try doing some part time job (one can do part time work on student visa) while you study. Dental hygienists are in demand and it will be very easy to clear the certification for it. Build your credit history during this time.



13) Study well and aim to clear the America dental board exam for license as soon as possible (preferably in the last year in US dental school). Get your US driver's license.



14) Once you are board certified, it will be very easy to get a dentist job and a H1 (work) visa. (If you choose to practice in a remote area, Green card can be obtained faster, inquire about it in the job interview).



15) As soon as you start as a dentist apply for Green card.



16) Start paying off your loans, buy a home, buy a car. Choose to enjoy your bachelor life for some time or get married.



17) After getting Green card (could take 5 years or so) it is advisable to start your own practice. With your own practice you may be even able to offer job (part time or dentist job) to one of your juniors.



18) Continue to enjoy life. Continue contributing to this forum and the community.



Most important thing to remember is to be cool all the time. Never be stressed. Always enjoy life. There will be twists and turns and so called obstacles. Every obstacle is actually an opportunity that will yield more.



Good luck!