ORE Part 2 fee jumps 65% to £6,967, sparking candidate backlash
GDC raised ORE Part 2 fees by 65% effective 6 May, affecting overseas-trained dentists seeking UK registration. Budget impact for candidates.
The General Dental Council announced on 6 May that the fee for Part 2 of the Overseas Registration Exam will rise from £4,235 to £6,967, an increase of £2,732. The GDC cited the cost of specialist clinical facilities, experienced examiners, and capital investment as reasons for the hike.
Impact on exam accessibility and candidate affordability
The 65% fee increase has triggered strong opposition from ORE candidates and the wider dental profession. Many candidates have told Dentistry.co.uk that they can no longer afford to continue with the registration process. Concerns centre on how the higher cost will limit access to the exam and reduce the number of overseas-trained dentists able to register in the UK.
What the fee covers
The GDC justifies the increase by pointing to infrastructure and staffing costs. The fee now reflects expenses for specialist clinical examination facilities, the fees of experienced examiners, and ongoing capital investment in equipment and facilities needed to deliver the exam.
Frequently asked questions
How much has the GDC ORE Part 2 fee increased?
The fee rose from £4,235 to £6,967 on 6 May 2026, an increase of £2,732 or 65%. The GDC cited specialist clinical facilities, experienced examiners, and capital investment as reasons for the rise.
Why are ORE candidates objecting to the fee hike?
Many candidates report they can no longer afford to continue the registration process at the new cost. The profession also fears the higher fee will reduce accessibility to the exam and limit the number of overseas-trained dentists registering in the UK.
What does the ORE Part 2 fee cover?
The fee covers the cost of specialist clinical examination facilities, fees for experienced examiners, and capital investment in equipment and facilities needed to administer the exam.
