Study dentistry without NC

A place to study dentistry is highly coveted - and therefore highly competitive. The Numerus Clausus (NC) for studying dentistry is 1.0 in many federal states, which makes it almost impossible for many applicants to get a place at university directly based on their A-levels. But don't worry: if your A-level average isn't good enough, you don't have to give up on your dream of becoming a dentist. There are alternative ways to start studying dentistry after all - without a waiting period and even without a top NC.

This article shows you realistic options on how you can Study dentistry The following topics are covered: what role entrance tests and selection procedures play, what opportunities studying abroad offers and why admission to dentistry is not solely dependent on A-level grades.

How high is the NC for dentistry?

In Germany, the NC largely determines who gets access to dental studies. In the winter semester 2023/24, the NC was 1.0 in almost all federal states. Only in a few exceptional cases - for example in Schleswig-Holstein (1.1) and Lower Saxony (1.2) - was a slightly lower average sufficient. In federal states such as Rhineland-Palatinate, Baden-Württemberg and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, however, the limit was 1.0.

Why are there differences in the NC?

The Abitur averages are weighted on a state-specific basis, as the requirements differ in the respective school systems. This means that two applicants with the same grade point average but from different federal states can have very different chances of gaining a place at university.

Studying dentistry: selection procedure & quotas

The allocation of study places for dentistry in Germany is based on a complex multi-stage selection procedure. Admission to the degree programme is not solely dependent on A-level grades. There are three central quotas in total:

• Best Abitur quota (30 %)

• Additional suitability quota (10 %)

• University's own selection procedure (60 %)

This distribution is intended to ensure that even motivated applicants without top grades are given the chance to study dentistry - for example through good results in the TMSthrough medical training or special qualifications and experience.

Best Abitur quota - The 30 % opportunities for A-level students

Around 30 per cent of study places for dentistry are allocated directly via the Abitur best quota. Your grade is compared with the results of other applicants from your federal state. This state-specific weighting is necessary to ensure fairness despite different education systems.

So if you are one of the best school leavers in your federal state, you have realistic chances here - for everyone else, the following quotas are decisive.

Additional aptitude quota - studying dentistry without a 1.0

If your NC is below the best Abitur quota, you can improve your chances via the zusätzliche Eignungsquote improve. What counts here is more than just your A-level grades:

• TMS (test for medical degree programmes)A fee-based aptitude test that can significantly improve your chances of getting a place at university.

• Vocational training or experience in the medical field (e.g. dental assistant, nurse)

• Voluntary servicesVolunteering or social commitment

These factors can increase your overall ranking in the selection process, even if your A-level average is not perfect. Around 10 % of the places are allocated via this quota - a real alternative for many.

University's own selection procedure - utilising the greatest opportunity (60 %)

The majority of dentistry study places - around 60 % - are allocated directly by the universities and colleges. Universities use their own selection procedures, which go far beyond A-level grades. The criteria vary depending on the university, but often include

• Letter of motivation or selection interview

• Results of a separate test (in addition to the TMS)

• Voluntary work or social projects

• Previous professional experience in the healthcare sector

• Practical tests, e.g. the so-called wire bending test

This procedure is aimed specifically at committed and suitable personalities who are characterised by more than just good grades. Depending on the university, your chances increase significantly through targeted preparation - many students get their place here.

Targeted preparation for admission tests - your advantage in the selection process

Whether it's the TMS, a university's own test or an entrance exam abroad - structured preparation often makes the difference between rejection and acceptance. With a targeted plan, you can prepare effectively for test content such as science, logical thinking and text comprehension.

Our support for you:

• Access to an extensive training platform

• Learning videos, explanations and simulation tests

• Current information on admission criteria & test formats

• Personal support during the application process

Starting early not only gives you a head start in terms of knowledge, but also reduces stress and uncertainty - crucial for your success rate.

Study medicine abroad - study dentistry without NC

For many prospective dentists, this is the Studium im Ausland the best way to escape the NC in Germany. Many European universities offer study places in dentistry, human medicine, pharmacy or Veterinary medicine without NC - Instead, there are aptitude tests, interviews or motivation procedures. The admission requirements vary depending on the university.

A particularly recommendable university is the Masaryk Universität in Brünnin the Czech 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.

Advantages of studying abroad

• No or greatly simplified numerus clausus

• Lessons often in English or bilingual

• Recognition in Germany usually problem-free (EU degrees)

• No long waiting times - study programmes can often start immediately

Of course, studying abroad also involves organisational challenges: you have to take care of accommodation, financing, health insurance and language. But: We will support you here too - from the first counselling interview to the start of your studies abroad.

How much does it cost to study dentistry abroad?

A study place abroad without an NC is not free of charge. You should expect the following costs:

• Tuition fees (between €6,000-15,000 per year, depending on the country/university)

• Housing, relocation and living costs

• Purchases such as books, instruments, learning materials

Financing options for your study abroad programme

We support you in finding funding opportunities - e.g:

• BAföG abroad

• Student loans with late repayment

• Scholarship programmes

Will my dental studies abroad be recognised in Germany?

A crucial point for many applicants: Is the degree abroad recognised in Germany? The good news is that dental degree programmes at EU universities are generally equivalent to the German state examination. The teaching and learning content is therefore very similar. This means that you can apply for a licence to practise in Germany after graduating - and practise in a dental clinic like anyone else.

Lateral entry dentistry: With training to study

Access to dentistry can also be improved through medical training. Although you cannot skip any semesters, you often receive valuable additional points in the additional aptitude quota.

Popular training programmes:

• Dental assistant

• Healthcare and nursing assistant

• Paramedic

These preliminary qualifications increase your chances of getting a place at university and show the universities your practical aptitude. However, the road is long and success is not guaranteed given the long list of applicants. However, without a top A-level, this is a realistic and honest start.

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

Modern degree programmes break with the NC: Example MHB Brandenburg

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. Brandenburg Medical School (MHB) shows that there is another way. Its model degree programme in dentistry does not have an NC - instead, it counts:

• Motivation

• Personality

• Suitability in practice

Practical work with dental clinics is carried out as early as the first semester. The MHB pursues the goal of training not only high-performing dentists, but above all dentists who are competent people. This strengthens medical care for patients in the region - and offers study places to applicants who would not have a chance elsewhere.

Successful application without NC: What is important?

If NC-free degree programmes or study abroad programmes are available, the grade is not the deciding factor:

• a convincing letter of motivation

• suitability in a personal interview or selection procedure

• your professional experience, social competence or practical skills

Many private and international universities use their own admission tests, which are not comparable to the TMS. These tests examine logical thinking, concentration, social maturity and motivation - aspects that are often lacking in traditional NC procedures.

Alternatives to the traditional dental degree programme

If you see yourself in a dental environment but do not want to study dentistry directly, the following degree programmes are of interest:

• Dental hygiene

• Dental technology

• Biomedicine (with a focus on oral health)

• Health management or public health

These practical and future-oriented degree programmes enable you to pursue a career in the medical sector - even without a licence to practise.

Is an NC-free degree programme worse?

Quite clearly: No. The quality of a degree programme does not depend on access via the NC, but on:

• Teaching concept and equipment

• Lecturer quality

• Practical relevance and support

• Motivation of the students

Particularly in the case of model degree programmes and international universities, the support is often more individual, the equipment more modern and the path to graduation more structured than at many state universities.

Conclusion: Dentistry without NC is possible - but the path is individual

The classic NC route is not the only one - and not necessarily the best. Anyone who is honestly motivated, has practical experience or is prepared to break new ground has the opportunity to study dentistry without an NC - in Germany or abroad. It's not just the grade that counts, but commitment, personality and perseverance.

We at futuredoctor.de will be happy to help you find your way - from the application and entrance tests to a successful start to your studies.