Free Dentistry Education in China + Admission Requirements 2025

Free Dental Education in China has attracted a significant number of students. The affordable costs and favorable conditions for studying this field in China are some of the main reasons behind the growing number of international students at the country’s universities. The possibility of studying in English and benefiting from dental scholarships in China are also key advantages for those seeking to pursue an academic career in China. To learn more about the conditions for studying dentistry in China, stay with us until the end of this article from Elm Vira. Studying in China In China, the education process can vary significantly depending on the type of program you choose, the type of university, and the specific course or field of study. Additionally, those who come to China as exchange students generally have more flexibility in choosing courses compared to those who complete their entire studies in China. The reason for this is that as an exchange student, you are not registered in a specific program and can select subjects that align more closely with your interests and academic goals. By studying free dentistry in China, not only will you be introduced to a different system and culture, but you will also gain expertise in another field of interest. Furthermore, those studying full-time in China must register in a specific program and complete the required courses. While culture and travel are as important as academic achievements for exchange students, the focus for full-time students is somewhat different. With educational migration to China, you will have less time to familiarize yourself with the country’s rules and regulations and need to learn as quickly as possible. You should not neglect your university experience as these are just as important as good grades. Entrance Exam and Pre-Dental Courses in China Fortunately, free dental education in China has been possible without the need for an entrance exam so far, and we hope this trend will continue in the coming years. However, this does not mean that every applicant for academic migration to China can enter its universities under any conditions. What is crucial for free dental education in China is the applicant’s age, which must be under 25. Additionally, grades in core subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and English) are decisive in the acceptance or rejection of the applicant’s application. It is worth noting that pre-dental courses in China are offered as optional in some universities, while many others only provide the main courses. In these pre-dental courses, which usually start in March or April, students arrive in China one semester before the main program begins and study foundational courses related to their field, such as Biology, Chemistry, English, and Chinese language, for five months. After completing the courses, students are automatically admitted to the main program. These pre-dental courses offer multiple benefits for Iranian applicants, and in recent years, universities have given special priority to attracting this group of applicants. Required Documents for Free Dental Education in China Free dental education in China is available without an entrance exam or the need for an English language proficiency certificate. However, for Iranian applicants, having a high school diploma in one of the science or mathematics fields is mandatory. Valid language proficiency certificates such as IELTS or TOEFL are always considered a significant advantage in the admission process. The following documents are required for dental studies in China, and special attention should be paid when collecting them:

• Completing the visa application form
• Paying the student visa fee
• Providing educational certificates from previous levels
• Transcripts
• Passport and a copy of it
• Passport-sized photo
• Translations of all documents
• Financial guarantee letter
• Personal statement

Advantages of Studying Medicine and Dentistry in China One of the key benefits of free dental education in China is that you can study in this country without needing significant financial assistance or incurring exorbitant costs. Moreover, all government universities in China are approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI), which means that tuition fees are much lower compared to private colleges in other countries. Below are some additional benefits of studying dentistry in China for those interested in academic migration:

• Low living costs: The cost of living is very affordable, approximately 7,000 rupees per month, which is similar to the cost in India.
• No entrance exam required: Admission to Chinese universities does not require an entrance exam. Admission is based solely on the PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) test, and students must score 75% or higher.
• World-class infrastructure: Universities across China offer world-class infrastructure.
• Adequate dormitories: Chinese universities (especially those approved by MCI) provide well-equipped dormitories for MBBS students.
• Globally recognized degrees: Degrees issued by Chinese universities are recognized by various medical councils around the world, enabling students to work anywhere in China and in many other countries.
• International student experience: China has a large number of international students, providing a rich cultural and economic experience.
• Favorable climate: China has a pleasant and suitable climate for students.
• Large population: China’s large population provides a significant opportunity for medical students to find medical jobs after graduation, as well as the chance to obtain Chinese residency after completing their studies. Additionally, China has hospitals with more than 8,000 beds.

Top Dental Universities in China In addition to the opportunity for free dental education in China without the need for an entrance exam, the reputation of its universities has led many people to pursue academic migration to China. Below are some of the top dental universities in China:

1. Sichuan University of Dentistry

Sichuan University in China began its journey as a dental education center in 1928 and has undergone several name changes throughout the years. By 1951, it was operating as the Western China Dental Hospital, and two years later, it was known as a dental and prosthetic college. Sichuan Dental Hospital is one of the top institutions for free dental education in China and spans a clinical area of 54,540 square meters. The hospital offers specialized services to patients and houses 350 dental units. Sichuan University offers 5-year undergraduate programs, 7-year master’s courses, and 8-year doctoral programs. The university also has a dedicated medical and dental research section, founded in 1936, where numerous significant research projects are conducted.

2. Shandong University of Dentistry

Shandong University of Dentistry, established in 1901, is one of the world’s leading dental schools. In its first year, the university enrolled approximately 300 students. Within 14 years, it had trained 770 graduates and sent nearly 59 students abroad to study in Japan, Europe, and the United States. The university, which operates under the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, is the second national university in China’s imperial education system. Over the years, Shandong University has made significant advancements and reached unprecedented levels of excellence. Following the merger of Shandong Technical University and Shandong Medical University, the official School of Dentistry and its associated hospital were established. This educational institution has 96 faculty members and several departments, including Oral Diseases, Orthodontics, Oral Implants, Oral Surgery, Pathology, Prosthodontics, and Microbiology, all supervised by highly qualified staff who provide exceptional services to students.

3. Zhengzhou University of Dentistry

Zhengzhou University, a modern and prestigious institution for free dental education in China, was established around 1928 with the assistance of various individuals and officials. The university covers an area of approximately 5,700 square meters and has four main campuses in Zhengzhou: the Eastern Campus, Southern Campus on North Zhengzhou Road, and Northern Campus on No. 97 Road. Currently, about 2,000 international students are enrolled here. Applicants for study in China who wish to attend Zhengzhou University benefit from top-notch facilities. Zhengzhou University is listed among the universities recognized by Iran’s Ministry of Health, and besides dentistry, other courses are offered. Moreover, studying at Zhengzhou University in the dental field is more affordable compared to other countries, with part of its financial resources allocated to support international students.

4. Dalian University of Dentistry

Dalian University of Dentistry, founded in 1947 and merged in 1949 with Dalian Institute of Technology and Kanti Medical School, is another prestigious institution for free dental education in China. The university boasts a team of 50 members, including senior dental scientists, renowned medical staff, and top professors. This outstanding college has three multimedia labs, high-quality education facilities, and easy access to the dental education system and simulation templates. International students aspiring to study dentistry in Dalian graduate with highly respected and credible degrees.

Scholarships for Dental Studies in China China allocates a significant amount of funding each year for scholarships to international students, offering various conditions for different academic levels. Students studying dentistry can easily apply for a scholarship and pursue free dental education in China. It’s important to note that only students who are registered as international students can benefit from these scholarships. Students at different academic levels must maintain high academic performance, with a minimum average score of 70 in their coursework and 80 in behavioral assessments. Overall, the conditions for receiving a scholarship for dental studies are not overly restrictive. If applicants are awarded a scholarship, they will not have to pay tuition fees, insurance costs, book fees, or accommodation fees. Additionally, they will receive a monthly stipend as financial assistance. Student Dormitories in China Living in university dormitories at dental schools in China is generally safe and comfortable. Most international students opt for accommodation provided by the university because it is affordable and comes with a range of amenities. Several types of rooms are available for international students, allowing them to choose according to their preferences. Most student dormitories in China offer essential facilities such as beds, easy internet access, wardrobes, heating and cooling systems, televisions, air conditioning, furniture, bathrooms, toilets, refrigerators, and telephones. These dormitories are designed to provide a comfortable living experience, allowing students to enjoy these amenities without any restrictions.

Free Dental Education in China: Scholarship Conditions To obtain a scholarship for dental studies in China, it is crucial to focus on your academic records. If you have an outstanding academic background, you can apply for a scholarship by following the basic guidelines. Many international universities, in collaboration with academic institutions such as the University of Sheffield, the University of Birmingham, and the University of Otago, along with other foundations, allocate sufficient funds as awards for dental students at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Below are some of the scholarships available for studying dental programs in China:

• Confucius Institute Scholarship
• Shandong University Scholarship
• SDU Scholarship
• Chinese Government Scholarship

Cost of Dental Education in China One of the main reasons students choose China for dental studies is its affordable educational system, particularly the low annual tuition fees. Compared to other dental schools worldwide, medical and dental universities in China offer significantly lower tuition fees. This makes China an attractive destination for international students looking to study abroad at an affordable cost. The annual tuition fee for dental studies in China is approximately $6,500, which is considerably lower than the tuition fees in other countries. It’s important to note that the low tuition fees do not compromise the quality of dental education. Additionally, the degree you receive at the end of your studies is recognized and accredited by Iran’s Ministry of Health. The degree obtained from dental studies in China holds high international credibility.

Work and Residency After Dental Studies in China Generally, students who decide to pursue free dental education in China alongside domestic students often research opportunities for employment and obtaining a residency permit in China after their studies. Acquiring a residency permit and finding work in China is a key goal for many international students. It’s important to note that securing employment after completing dental programs in China is typically only possible if you have a good command of the Chinese language. This will allow you to communicate effectively with employers and colleagues in a safe and friendly work environment. Usually, after several years of working under a contract with a Chinese employer, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency and, eventually, a passport from China. Conclusion As discussed, the number of international students applying for free dental education in China is vast, and each year, more students pursue education opportunities in China due to its numerous advantages. If you are interested in studying this highly popular field, it’s important to review the information shared in this article so that you are well-prepared and informed before making any decisions. You can also reach out to our immigration experts at Elm Vira for more information and free consultations regarding dental scholarships in China.