GDC acknowledges fee burden as ORE Part 2 cost rises to £6,967
ORE fees now £6,967 following £2,732 increase; GDC acknowledges candidate burden.
The General Dental Council has acknowledged that a £2,732 increase to the Overseas Registration Exam Part 2 fee creates a burden for candidates, but defended the rise as necessary to expand exam capacity and reduce waiting times. The new total fee of £6,967 prompted significant backlash from international dental professionals, with some questioning whether they could afford the cost of UK registration.
Why the GDC raised ORE fees
The GDC cited capacity constraints as the primary reason for the increase. The exam has operated as a bottleneck, with demand far exceeding available places and candidates forced to compete for slots while incurring additional costs. The council said it has expanded exam capacity and aims to reduce waiting times. The new fee reflects the cost of the updated contract, including specialist clinical facilities, experienced examiners, quality assurance, and a newly imposed value-added tax on exam operations. The GDC expects fees to remain broadly stable for the next five years.
Impact on international dentist recruitment
The higher cost threatens to deter internationally qualified dentists from pursuing UK registration at a time when demand for dentists continues to grow. The GDC acknowledged this tension and called on the wider sector to support pathways for international professionals. The council framed the expanded capacity as a positive step but recognised the financial barrier now facing candidates. It emphasised that sustainable workforce strategy requires support through education, examination, and employment.
Frequently asked questions
How much did the GDC increase the ORE Part 2 fee?
The GDC increased the fee by £2,732, bringing the total cost to £6,967. The council said it expects these fees to remain broadly stable for the next five years.
Why did the GDC increase ORE exam fees?
The GDC cited capacity constraints, costs of specialist clinical facilities, experienced examiners, quality assurance, and newly imposed VAT on exam operations. The council said expanding capacity requires additional investment in facilities and equipment.
What is the GDC doing to address candidate concerns about affordability?
The GDC acknowledged the fee is a burden and called on the wider sector to find ways to support international dentists. The council emphasised that expanded exam capacity reduces waiting times, though it did not announce direct financial support.
How many additional ORE exam places has the GDC created?
The article does not specify the exact number of additional places created, only that the GDC has increased capacity and is successful in reducing waiting times.
