Study Dentistry in Ukraine

Ukraine is a small European country where many international students travel to pursue dentistry. In recent years, students from Asian and Middle Eastern countries such as India, Iran, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan have headed to Ukraine for their studies. Despite having a modern educational system, the cost of studying dentistry in Ukraine is lower compared to many European countries.

The dental degrees from Ukrainian universities are recognized in many European, Asian, and African countries, as well as by the World Health Organization. One requirement for studying dentistry in Ukraine is proficiency in the English language; however, no international language certificate is needed. Courses at Ukrainian dental universities are offered in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. In this article, Elm Vira Immigration Institute provides comprehensive information about studying dentistry in Ukraine.

Advantages of Studying Dentistry in Ukraine

Ukraine, as one of the European countries that separated from the Soviet Union, has a strong higher education system. The country aims to align its educational system, particularly in higher education, with modern European and global standards. As a result, many Ukrainian degrees, especially in medical and dental fields, hold high recognition worldwide. Some of the advantages of studying dentistry in Ukraine include:

• The admission process at Ukrainian universities is not difficult.
• Ukrainian dental universities are ranked globally.
• Admission is possible without entrance exams and without the need for international language certificates.
• The cost of living and studying is affordable.
• Education is offered in English.
• Dentistry is taught in an advanced educational system.
• There are work opportunities in Ukraine and other countries after graduation.

Cost of Studying Dentistry in Ukraine

Medical and dental programs are generally among the most expensive fields of study worldwide, and Ukraine is no exception. However, considering the advanced educational facilities and well-equipped universities and hospitals in the country, the cost of studying dentistry in Ukraine is lower compared to developed countries. The average annual cost of studying dentistry in Ukraine is as follows:

• Dentistry in English: $4,600 – $5,000
• Dentistry in Russian: $3,800 – $4,500

It should be noted that these costs are averages and may vary depending on the university.

Dentistry Universities in Ukraine

As Ukraine strives to join the European Union, it must adhere to many European standards and criteria, one of which is the higher education system. Therefore, Ukraine is working to enhance and modernize its educational infrastructure through structured programs. Many Ukrainian dental universities have achieved high rankings globally. Some of the best dental universities in Ukraine include:

• Donetsk National Medical University
• Kyiv Medical University
• Kharkiv National Medical University
• Ternopil State Medical University
• Bukovina State Medical University
• Dnipro State Medical Academy
• Ukrainian Academy of Dentistry
• Zaporizhzhia State Medical University

After introducing the top dental universities in Ukraine, we will discuss three universities in detail.

1. Donetsk National Medical University

Donetsk National Medical University is one of the best universities for studying dentistry in Ukraine. Dentistry courses at Donetsk University are offered in three languages: English, French, and Ukrainian. It is the largest university in Eastern Europe, with currently 15,000 students enrolled, 4,000 of whom are international students. The quality of education at Donetsk University is excellent.

1. Kyiv Medical University

Kyiv Medical University is one of the oldest dental universities in Ukraine. It has 10 faculties, including the Faculty of Dentistry, Pharmacy, Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics, and more. The university offers various specializations in dentistry. The cost of studying dentistry at Kyiv Medical University is higher than for medical and pharmaceutical programs, and students are provided with accommodation.

1. Kharkiv National Medical University

Founded around 200 years ago, Kharkiv National Medical University is located in the city of Kharkiv. It offers programs in medicine, dentistry, and pediatric medicine. The cost of studying dentistry at Kharkiv is lower than the other two programs. The university, with 3,500 students, provides the best educational facilities, academic resources, and accommodation. Additional benefits include free transportation and the option to study in both Ukrainian and English.

Language of Dentistry Studies in Ukraine

One of the conditions for studying dentistry in Ukraine is the language of instruction. In Ukrainian universities, dentistry courses are offered in both Russian and English. While providing an international language certificate is not mandatory for admission or obtaining a visa, applicants must demonstrate their language proficiency. Additionally, students who wish to study in Russian must complete a preparatory language course, known as the “Podfak” program, which lasts for 10 months. Upon completing the course, students must pass a final exam to be admitted to the dentistry program.

Duration of Dentistry Studies in Ukraine

Another condition for studying dentistry in Ukraine is the duration of the program. Dentistry is offered at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The undergraduate dentistry program (BDS) lasts 5 years, after which students enter the graduate program (PG) for an additional 2 years. Upon completing the 7-year program, graduates are qualified to work as dental specialists.

Scholarships for Dentistry Studies in Ukraine

Given that the Ukrainian government allocates a significant budget to its universities and higher education system, the cost of studying dentistry in Ukraine is relatively low. However, free dental education is not available in Ukraine, and universities do not offer scholarships to students.

Requirements for Studying Dentistry in Ukraine

Ukrainian dental universities are highly ranked worldwide. With high-quality educational environments and well-equipped medical centers, these universities prepare students for entering the job market. In the first 5 years, students acquire all the general dental education and clinical skills required. Afterward, students enter specialized courses that last for 2 years. Applicants for studying dentistry in Ukraine must have high grades, particularly in biology and chemistry, from their high school science courses.

Dental Courses in Ukraine

Students studying dentistry in Ukraine will experience a range of specialized courses. Some of the best programs offered include:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry
• Pediatric Dentistry
• Periodontology
• Orthodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Dental Implantology and Root Canal Treatment

Career After Graduating in Dentistry in Ukraine

After completing their professional education and practical training, dental students in Ukraine can work for a few months at a dental clinic. However, to do so, they must first obtain a work permit in Ukraine.

If graduates can secure a work permit and work for 2-3 years, they will be eligible for permanent residency in Ukraine. After residing in the country for 5 years, they can apply for Ukrainian citizenship. The medical and dental job market in Ukraine offers good opportunities for specialists, which increases the chances of employment and obtaining permanent residency.

Studying Dentistry in Ukraine: Admission Requirements

International applicants who wish to pursue their studies in Ukraine should first review the requirements for studying dentistry in the country. After evaluating the costs and conditions, if suitable, they can proceed with the application process. The required documents for admission are as follows:

• Complete the application form for the desired university.
• Official translation of academic documents, including high school transcripts (Applicants must have satisfactory grades in biology and chemistry)
• Official translation of identity and personal documents
• Valid passport
• Minimum age of 18
• Medical health certificate (including HIV test)
• Motivation letter
• Proof of financial means
• Criminal record certificate
• Pre-payment receipts up to $300, including visa support letter, invitation letter, etc.
• Proof of payment for document verification fees
• Documents for obtaining a student visa

Once the admission letter from the desired university is received, the applicant must apply for a student visa, as it is necessary to study in any foreign country. The required documents for obtaining a student visa for Ukraine include:

• Completed visa application form
• Official admission letter from the university
• Original passport with minimum required validity
• Official translation of identification documents
• Proof of financial means (between $4,000-$5,000)
• Official translation of academic documents with transcripts
• Medical health certificate (including HIV test)
• Health insurance certificate (minimum coverage of €50,000)
• Criminal record certificate
• Visa payment receipt

Visa Application Process for Studying Dentistry in Ukraine

Applicants wishing to apply for a student visa in Ukraine can choose one of the following three methods:

1. Online Application via the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
2. Application through Ukrainian Embassies or Consulates located abroad.
3. Application through the Visa Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at border inspection points.

Important: Before submitting academic documents to the Ukrainian consulate, the documents must be officially verified. There are two methods for official verification:

• Legalization of documents by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, and the Ukrainian Embassy in the applicant’s home country.
• Document verification with an apostille stamp and legalization by the Ukrainian Embassy in the home country.

Summary

Ukraine, with one of the best higher education systems in the world, has firmly established its position among the top universities globally. As a result, many international students travel to Ukraine to study dentistry. Despite adhering to European educational standards, the cost of studying dentistry in Ukraine is much lower than in some other European countries.

One of the conditions for studying dentistry in Ukraine is the language of instruction, which is typically offered in Russian and English. In some universities, courses may also be taught in French or Ukrainian. Ukrainian dental universities offer modern, well-equipped theoretical and practical educational facilities, along with distinguished faculty members. Consequently, the dental degree from Ukrainian universities holds high global recognition.

Elm Vira Immigration Institute, with 9 years of experience, is a trusted advisor in guiding applicants through the best legal pathways to achieve their goals. Elm Vira, with a team of expert lawyers, will assist you throughout the entire process, from visa application to residency in your destination country. For a free consultation appointment, feel free to contact us.