Study dentistry without NC

Studying dentistry without Numerus Clausus (NC) is possible through alternative degree programmes and outside the traditional application process. Under certain circumstances, A-level grades do not play the main role in the allocation of study places. Particularly at private universities and abroad, there are opportunities regardless of the A-level average, Dentistry to study without NC.

Is the numerus clausus really the limit for studying dentistry?

In Germany, access to dental studies is usually restricted by a high NC. However, it would be wrong to believe that a very good Abitur is the only way to study dentistry. In fact, the NC only reflects the 30 % of study places for which the A-level average is the only selection criterion.

A further 10 % of the seats will be sold via the Additional suitability quota which takes into account, for example, existing education or performance in entrance tests.

The biggest chance in the admission procedure for state universities is the selection quota of the universities. Although the Abitur certainly plays a role here, applicants can also score points with special motivation, social commitment, vocational training, entrance tests and other aspects and thus have a real chance of studying dentistry even without top grades.

Study dentistry abroad

For those who do not get a place to study dentistry due to the high numerus clausus (NC) in Germany, a Studying medicine abroad an attractive alternative. A particularly recommendable university is the Masaryk University in BrnoCzech Republic, which is known for its first-class education in dentistry. The university attaches great importance to practice-orientated learning and state-of-the-art teaching methods. Students benefit from excellently equipped laboratories and clinics as well as close collaboration with experienced specialists. In addition, access to the degree programme is less restrictive than in Germany, which enables ambitious applicants to realise their dream of studying dentistry without the high pressure of an NC. The international orientation and high academic quality of Masaryk University make it an excellent choice for prospective dentists. And that's exactly what we at futuredoctor help with.

Lateral entry into dental studies often leads via an apprenticeship

If you would like to study dentistry but are not admitted to the desired study programme due to the long list of applicants with better A-levels, training is often also a good decision. The mere waiting time is no longer taken into account, but with an apprenticeship you have a good chance that your next application to study dentistry will be successful.

If you have completed a large number of vocational training programmes, you can often receive appropriate recognition in the admissions process later on. This means that you are considered better qualified and will have an easier time studying dentistry even without a very good A-levels. 

You can skip semesters despite your previous education in such a programme. Lateral entry but usually not.

Innovative degree programmes break new ground

Dentistry is changing because progress in all medical fields is rapid. The profession of dentist today places completely different demands on students than just a few years ago. Therefore, the degree programme must also evolve. 

Modern model degree programmes take this fact into account and also break with the NC, as A-level grades are often no longer the deciding factor. We would now like to explain how such a model degree programme works using the example of Brandenburg Medical School (MHB).

Fashion study programmes using the example of the MHB

In the Brandenburg Model Dental Medicine Programme (BMZ), great emphasis is placed on practical learning and close cooperation with dental clinics from the very first semester.

The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane was only founded in 2014 and originally started with the Psychology/Psychotherapy and Human Medicine degree programmes. Dentistry has now been added to the range of courses for the 2024 summer semester.

The university does not base its selection procedure and the admission of applicants on an NC, but instead pays attention to personality and motivation, among other things. In this way, the Brandenburg model degree programme in dentistry is primarily intended to offer applicants the opportunity to study dentistry who later distinguish themselves as good dentists. After all, patients are not interested in how good their dentist's A-levels were, but what counts is empathy and professional expertise.

With this approach, the MHB is strengthening medical care in the state of Brandenburg. Studying according to such an innovative approach means going beyond the level of normal teaching methods and entering professional life as a well-prepared dentist - without any NC.

What is important when applying for a study place without NC

If universities do not attach importance to the NC, other criteria are important in the selection process. In many cases, private universities in particular require a letter of motivation stating why you are the right applicant to study dentistry. 

You should write such a letter of motivation with great care, as it is essentially your application for an admission ticket for the further admission procedure. This is often followed by the university's own admission tests, in which you can prove that you are suitable for the degree programme. These are often similar to a job interview and are not comparable to the study aptitude tests such as the "Test for Medical Degree Programmes" (TMS), which you can complete before the admission procedure and which can also improve your chances.

It is easier to avoid the NC abroad

Studying dentistry abroad is an attractive option for many who want to escape the strict NC limits in Germany. Numerous international universities offer medicine, dentistry and other medical degree programmes with different admission requirements. 

These universities generally place more emphasis on the application process, which goes beyond mere grades. Admission tests are often used to find out whether applicants are able to fulfil the required academic requirements. This gives you the opportunity to gain a place to study dentistry abroad even though you do not fulfil the NC in Germany.

If studying dentistry is your declared goal and this path is conceivable for you, we will be happy to help you obtain the coveted study place. We work with a selection of renowned universities where it is possible to study dentistry in German or English.

The careful selection of students often results in a lower drop-out rate

It can be an advantage not only for you if a university in another country does not select its students according to the NC. A good NC says little about how motivated the applicants are and how well they can learn and understand medical or dental contexts within a comparatively short time.

By focussing on qualities other than A-level grades, the success rate can be increased and the vast majority of students who start their studies can complete them.

The costs of studying dentistry abroad without an NC

If you decide to study at a university abroad, there are some costs that you need to take into account:

• The tuition fees at most universities abroad are significantly higher than when studying at a German state university.
• Relocation and housing must be financed.
• You will need books and other materials as equipment for your dental degree programme.

We make sure that it is comparatively easy for you to get a place at a university abroad and start your studies there. We will take care of the application to your chosen university for you.

We advise you on which universities are suitable for you and prepare you intensively for the entrance tests. We are also on hand to help you set up a flat share and during your studies.

Easily realisable financing options for the dream of studying abroad

Semester after semester, it costs money to study abroad. Nevertheless, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to study dentistry if this is their dream.

In order to finance their studies, many students have the option of receiving BAföG abroad. Student loans, which you only have to pay back once you have finished everything and have both feet on the career ladder, are another way to ensure you are financially well provided for from the start of your studies.

Having qualifications from abroad recognised in Germany

Recognising your degree from one of our recommended universities in Germany is usually not a problem. Once you have submitted everything, you will receive confirmation that you are authorised to work as a dentist in Germany.

These reliable processes are another argument in favour of simply studying abroad and then working at a German dental clinic or other institution later on.

Alternatives to the dentistry degree programme

Alternatives to studying dentistry range from related courses in medicine to specialised apprenticeships. If you don't want to work directly as a dentist, you can also pursue a career in dental hygiene or dental technology. 

Many universities also offer a degree programme in health management or public health, which is also relevant to the dental sector. Such options allow you to gain a wide range of qualifications, so that at the end of your studies you have many interesting choices for your future career.

Is an NC-free degree programme worse than the traditional degree programme with NC?

An NC-free degree programme does not necessarily have to be the worse choice. After all, the quality of the education does not depend on the admission requirements, but on the teaching and learning content, the qualification of the teaching staff and the practical experience you gain during your studies. 

The basics and the subjects taught are the same with and without NC. This applies in particular to subjects in the field of medicine, where the degree is awarded by state examination. Universities at which you can study dentistry without an NC nevertheless provide you with the best possible conditions so that you can later work in a dental practice or in clinics with good training.