Advanced Standing for International Dentists DMD Track
Advanced Standing for International Dentists
The Advanced Standing International Dentist (ASID) Track enables internationally trained dentists to earn a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and advance their careers in the U.S.
- ASID Track Applications Now Open in ADEA CAAPID
Deadline: May 5, 2026 - Get Answers to Common Questions
A premier pathway for internationally trained dentists
The Advanced Standing International Dentist (ASID) Track at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) is designed exclusively for dentists who have completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or an equivalent degree outside the United States and Canada.
Program at a glance
Application period | March 5–May 5 |
Degree | Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) |
Track | Advanced standing |
Who should apply | Dentists with a BDS equivalent (outside U.S. and Canada) |
Start term | January (year 2 of the DMD program) |
Application system | |
HSDM application fee | $150 (nonrefundable) |
Tuition |
Quick links
Bringing a team mindset to patient care
Internationally trained dentist Gaser Abdelaziz, DMD26, came to HSDM through the Advanced Standing International Dentist (ASID) track to expand his clinical training in a collaborative, patient-centered environment. His experience at HSDM is helping shape his future in specialty dentistry and orofacial pain.
Frequently asked questions
We’ve answered some of the most common questions about the DMS Program ASID Track. Start here before beginning your application.
How to apply
Applying to the ASID Track is a multi-step process. Below is a checklist of required materials you’ll need to submit through ADEA CAAPID to complete your application. Preparing these items in advance will help ensure a smooth application experience.
The following application materials must be submitted via ADEA CAAPID:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Letter of Intent (maximum 500 words)
- Three letters of recommendation (minimum), up to four total
- Preferred: Dean’s Letter (Institutional Evaluation Form)
- A letter from faculty who supervised your research (Principal Investigators) or taught you in biology, chemistry, or physics*
- A third letter from a faculty member of your choosing OR from a US dentist whom you have shadowed or who has supervised you as an employer
- A fourth letter from a recommender of your choosing is optional
*If your BDS program did not offer courses in biology, chemistry, or physics, please submit a letter from someone who taught you in a preclinical course
- Official transcripts
- Official academic credentials evaluation for foreign coursework
A course-by-course evaluation is required from one of the following approved agencies:- Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ece.org)
- World Education Services (www.wes.org)
- Nonrefundable $150 HSDM application fee paid online.
- Official INBDE or NBDE Part I and II scores
- Official TOEFL Scores
Applicants who only have international academic degrees must demonstrate English language proficiency by submitting official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores. See requirements and waiver criteria. - Institution code: 3430
What you’ll experience
- Join HSDM in January of year two of the DMD program
- Learn alongside four-year DMD students in a fully integrated curriculum, completing the same academic, case-based, and clinical training
- Graduate with a DMD degree
- Benefit from:
- Small class sizes
- Personalized mentorship
- A focus on oral–systemic health
- A supportive, collaborative environment
All interviews are by invitation only and take place in the spring. Selected applicants may be invited to participate in up to three rounds:
Round 1: Virtual interview
Round 2: Virtual interview
Round 3 (Final): On-campus interview
Final Round (On-Campus Experience)
Candidates who advance to the final stage will be invited to campus for:
- Bench skills assessment
- Campus tour
- Lunch with current ASID Track students
- Final interview
Interviews are a key part of the admissions process and are designed to be conversational and engaging.
This is your opportunity to:
- Share your background
- Demonstrate your readiness for the program
- Discuss your professional goals
We aim to get to know you as both a clinician and a future colleague.
Important:
If invited, candidates will receive a supplemental application by email and must complete it prior to their first interview.
- Individual meetings or campus tours are not available prior to applying
- Selected interviewees will be invited to a student-led campus tour
- This program cannot be combined with an HSDM AGE degree
Learn more about the program
Get an inside look at the DMD Program's ASID Track. This recorded webinar covers the curriculum, admissions process, and what it’s like to join the program as an internationally trained dentist. Have questions after watching? Review our FAQs section or connect with our admissions team.
