Bridging program

Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates (ASPIDG)

Western University — Schulich Dentistry

Entry into DDS Year 2 to complete a Canadian dental degree.

Good for: I am a dentist trained abroad. Is advanced standing an alternative to repeating an entire degree?

Where do I start? ↓

Checked October 20, 2026 How we check information

At a glance

Delivery: In person
Cost: Confirm cost with provider
Who can access it: Canadian citizen or permanent resident by application deadline.
Intake: Applications advertised — confirm places

DDS completion is separate from NDEB certification and RCDSO registration.

01 / Start here

Your first steps

Check dental accreditation and status eligibility, then arrange ADAT/WES and transcripts early.
Review the full fee schedule and submit through the specific ASP application page.

Published September 1–November 1 application window; 2026 bench-test page confirms this cycle. Seats are competitive.

Visit provider ↗

02 / Check the fit

Requirements and limits

Minimum four-year university dental qualification; official transcripts/translations and specified WES ICAP assessment.
ADAT results within three years; AFK scores not accepted.
IELTS Academic 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0, or TOEFL equivalent; limited Canadian-high-school exemption.
Selection includes autobiographical sketch, invited bench test and interview; NDEB-certified applicants excluded.

Canadian citizen or permanent resident by application deadline.

Important limits and details to confirm

DDS completion is separate from NDEB certification and RCDSO registration.
Compare the NDEB equivalency alternative before committing to another degree.
Bench-test invitation or payment does not guarantee admission.

Location

London, Ontario.

03 / Understand the commitment

Costs and possible funding

Tuition $57,680 per listed year. Year-2 scheduled total $94,506.07 including $35,000 program-specific fees; later totals differ. Application $375; invited bench test $4,500 plus HST. Future rates/living costs additional.

Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) (mixed aid, conditional external lead): Conditional OSAP lead; see shared funding record.

04 / Check with the provider

Sources and where to get help

Use the provider’s official starting page to ask about your situation. Published information was checked on October 20, 2026; the provider must confirm current availability and personal eligibility.