May 2026
For thousands of overseas-qualified dentists, the ORE (Overseas Registration Exam) is the gateway to practising dentistry in the UK. But as we approach 2026, the landscape of the ORE is shifting in ways that could significantly improve access, reduce waiting times, and modernise the examination process.
If you’re preparing for the ORE or planning to apply soon, understanding these changes is essential. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s happening — and why it matters.
A new exam provider is taking over in 2026
One of the biggest changes is the appointment of a new ORE provider, led by UCL Consultants Ltd (UCLC) alongside partners from the UCL Eastman Dental Institute. This shift is planned to take effect from mid-2026 and brings with it a major goal:
- To increase exam capacity and reduce the long-standing backlog.
The new consortium is expected to introduce improved organisation, updated facilities, and smoother candidate management — all of which have been urgently needed for years.
More exam seats: Capacity will be more than double
The General Dental Council (GDC) has made it clear that one of its strategic priorities for 2026–2028 is to double the number of dentists who qualify for UK registration through international routes, including ORE.
What does that mean for you?
- More frequent sittings
- More seats for both Part 1 and Part 2
- Better chances of securing a place
Historically, many candidates have struggled to book a seat before exams sold out within minutes. Increasing capacity could finally bring relief to thousands waiting to enter the UK dental workforce.
A higher number of ORE sittings leading into 2026.
Even before the new provider takes over, the GDC has already expanded the number of ORE sittings for late 2025 and early 2026 — including three sittings for Part 1 and four for Part 2. This interim increase is designed to:
- Clear part of the backlog
- Provide continuity during the transition
- Prevent further delays for international dentists
If you are preparing right now, this means more opportunities to sit the exam sooner.
A push for a more accessible and fair booking system
- Clear part of the backlog
- Provide continuity during the transition
- Prevent further delays for international dentists
One of the most frustrating issues candidates have faced is the booking system — where exam seats disappear within seconds, leaving many without opportunities despite months of preparation. In response to ongoing pressure, petitions, and candidate feedback, the GDC has acknowledged the need for a more fair, transparent, and accessible booking process.
Changes being considered include
- Clearer communication on seat release dates
- Improved online booking platform performance
- Potential prioritisation for candidates who have repeatedly failed to secure a place
Long-term vision: new international registration pathways
Beyond the ORE itself, the GDC is exploring
- Mutual recognition routes for overseas qualifications
- Modernised assessment frameworks
- Streamlined pathways for experienced international clinicians
This doesn’t replace the ORE (yet), but it signals a future with more options and less reliance on a single exam route. For candidates considering long-term relocation to the UK, this is encouraging news.
What this means for you as an overseas dentist?
2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the ORE system — and for international dentists who want to practise in the UK. In short, more seats mean fewer delays, new provider means better organisation, a fairer booking system reduces stress and future alternative pathways may open new doors. After years of backlog, uncertainty, and limited capacity, these changes represent real progress toward a more accessible, supportive route into UK dentistry.
Final Thoughts
If you’re preparing for the ORE, the coming year offers more hope and opportunity than ever before. With expanded exam availability and a new provider focused on quality and efficiency, international dentists may finally see a smoother, more predictable pathway into UK practice.
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