6 Proven Ways to Master Dental School Bench Test
WHY BENCH TESTS CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR DREAM?
Written By:
Dr. Sujit Pradhan
Co-Founder & Mentor, Simpli Boards
Table of Content:
1: INTRODUCTION
According to a study, while about 50% of applicants are accepted into dental schools for regular four-year DDS, acceptance rates to Internationally Trained Dentist Programmes(ITDPs) are estimated to be about 2%, making it one of the most competitive dental programs in the United States. The Bench Test, a pivotal aspect of dental school admissions, serves as the litmus test for candidates’ manual dexterity, clinical insight, and knowledge of dental procedures. Navigating this examination with finesse demands meticulous preparation. Here, we delve into the significance of the Bench Test, why early preparation is paramount, practical strategies to excel, and how Simpli Boards’ Bench Prep Course specifically caters to foreign-trained dentists preparing for the US Bench Test.
2: SIGNIFICANCE OF THE BENCH TEST
- Evaluation of Clinical Skills: The Bench Test meticulously scrutinizes candidates’ adeptness in executing dental procedures on a typodont, mirroring real-world clinical scenarios.
- Admission Requirement: Many esteemed dental institutions mandate the completion of the Bench Test, underscoring its importance in the selection process.
- Showcasing Competence: Success in the Bench Test serves as a testament to a candidate’s prowess in dental techniques, illuminating their potential as future dental practitioners.
How Much Universities Charges for Prep Courses?
A study conducted by Avni Sharma, Pranshu Sharma, Viyan S. Kadhium, Harleen Kaur, and Romesh P. Nalliah revealed that fewer than 60% of dental schools provide an Internationally Trained Dentist Programme (ITDP). However, many schools offer observerships/externships/bench prep to foreign-trained dentists, which do not lead to licensure or guaranteed admissions but cost exorbitant amounts for few days hands-on training. Average cost for a 2 day workshop is USD 2400. Click to read in detail.
3: REASONS TO PREPARE IN ADVANCE
- Familiarization with Test Format: Early engagement with test materials grants candidates’ insights into its structure and nuances, mitigating test-day jitters.
- Practice and Skill Development: Diligent practice hones manual dexterity, speed, and precision, indispensable attributes for excelling in the Bench Test.
- Building Confidence: Adequate preparation breeds confidence, empowering candidates to perform optimally amidst the rigors of the examination.
- Optimal Readiness: Initiating preparation in advance facilitates targeted skill refinement, ensuring candidates are well-equipped to tackle any challenge the test poses.
4: COLLEGES THAT CONDUCTS THE BENCH
In case you are wondering about the dental schools that mandate the completion of the Bench Test, here are a few examples of dental schools that require a Bench Test for Advanced Standing DMD/DDS programs, however the rules may change, so do consider checking each of these individually:
-
- University at Buffalo
- Loma Linda University
- Nova Southeastern University
- University of Alabama
- University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
- University of Michigan School of Dentistry
- University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry
- University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Southern California (USC) Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry
- University of Washington School of Dentistry
- University of Western
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry
- Virginia Commonwealth University
Don’t Blindly move in the Herd!
Many aspirants apply to dental schools that do not require a bench test, thinking they can be accepted without it. However, the reality is that your chances of being accepted are much higher if you prepare well in advance. Although it is the final step, it is also one of the most challenging. This is an opportunity for you to distinguish yourself from other applicants and demonstrate your skills to the admissions committee.
5: MOST COMMON TASKS
The skill tested in the bench test varies from one schools to another, however following are the usual tasks:
-
- Class 2 Cavity Amalgam Prep – lower first molars /upper first molar/ upper premolars
- Crown Prep: Full metal/ All ceramics/ Zirconia/PFM in molars and Upper centrals
- Restoration: Composite / Amalgam (rarely these days)
- RPD design on the Cast
- Wax carving.
Is Training or Workshop by Universities a must for Bench Prep?
As soon as you submit the CAAPID application you may get invited for the school’s own bench prep courses? Well, they are excessively expensive and are not necessary. The only time you have to pay is iIf you get called for BenchPrep and the school asks you to pay the additional fee.
6: SIMPLI BOARDS BENCH PREP COURSE FOR FOREIGN-TRAINED DENTISTS
Simpli Boards offers a comprehensive bench prep course tailored specifically for foreign-trained dentists who aim to excel in the US bench test. Here’s how their program assists candidates:
- Customized Curriculum: Simpli Boards’ course is meticulously crafted to address the unique needs and challenges faced by foreign-trained dentists, ensuring targeted preparation.
- Expert Guidance: The course is led by experienced dental professionals who provide invaluable insights, guidance, and mentorship throughout the preparation journey.
- Focused Skill Enhancement: Simpli Boards’ Bench Prep Course emphasizes targeted skill enhancement, helping candidates refine their techniques and bridge any gaps in knowledge.
- Mock Exams and Feedback: The program includes simulated mock exams designed to replicate the actual test environment and personalized feedback to aid in continuous improvement.
- Flexible Learning: Simpli Boards’ Bench Prep Course offers flexibility, allowing candidates to study at their own pace while accommodating busy schedules and other commitments. Both online and on-site versions of the bench prep course are available.
- Cost effective: Simpli Boards Bench Prep is not just comprehensive but also very affordable. They also have payment plans that are without any interest to help the foreign trained dentist easeout in terms of financial burden.
To know more about Simpli Boards Bench test Prep Program and to Sign-up, visit the webpage.
Or you can write to us on admissions@simpliboards.com
7: TAKEAWAY POINT
Preparing for the Dental School Bench Test can feel intimidating, especially for foreign-trained dentists who are entering a new educational system with unfamiliar expectations. Yet, success is not only possible but highly achievable with the right mindset and preparation strategy. By embracing a proactive approach, candidates can transform what initially feels like an overwhelming challenge into a structured pathway toward acceptance in U.S. dental programs.
A key element of this proactive strategy is choosing the right support system. The Simpli Boards Bench Prep Course has been designed with international dentists in mind, offering a tailored curriculum that directly addresses the skills and competencies tested in the Bench Exam. Instead of wasting time on scattered resources or trial-and-error methods, students benefit from a focused, structured plan that mirrors the actual tasks they will face.
What makes this program stand out is its emphasis on hands-on skill enhancement. The Bench Test is not just about theoretical knowledge—it demands precision, dexterity, and the ability to perform under time constraints. Through carefully guided practice sessions, simulated test exercises, and continuous feedback from experienced mentors, candidates are able to refine their manual skills while also learning how to manage exam-day pressure. This combination of practice and guidance ensures that students not only know what to expect but also feel confident in their ability to perform consistently.
Expert mentorship plays another critical role. At Simpli Boards, mentors are more than instructors—they act as coaches who understand the unique struggles of international dentists. From clarifying expectations to offering one-on-one guidance, they help aspirants overcome weaknesses, strengthen technical confidence, and develop strategies to showcase their skills effectively during evaluations.
By taking this structured, supportive approach, candidates can significantly increase their chances of success in one of the most critical steps toward admission into U.S. dental schools. The Bench Test becomes less of an obstacle and more of an opportunity to demonstrate competence, resilience, and readiness for advanced dental education.
Ultimately, the Bench Test is not just about passing an assessment—it is about proving your ability to adapt, learn, and excel in a new professional environment. With Simpli Boards’ Bench Prep Course, aspirants gain the tools, confidence, and mentorship they need to transition successfully into the realm of U.S. dental education and, ultimately, a rewarding dental career.
KNOW SIMPLI BOARDS
Proven Success with SIMPLI BOARDS:
Our commitment to your success is reflected in our 99% passing rate for first-time aspirants. The key components of our program, including Simpli notes, Core and Mastermind tests, live and recorded video lectures, mock tests, and mentor connect, contribute to a comprehensive and effective learning experience.
Affordable, Stress-Free Success:
SIMPLI BOARDS is dedicated to helping you save time, achieve high scores, and navigate the exam without undue stress. Our program offers an affordable solution without compromising on the quality of preparation.
To know more about our program visit our programs page or drop in an email at admin@simpliboards.com
Inspiring Success Stories:
The success stories of our aspirants stand as a testament to the effectiveness of our program. Explore their testimonials to understand the impact of SIMPLI BOARDS on their journey.
Our success stories are what our aspirants achieve in their life, but we are overwhelmed by how vocal they are for us. Experience some of their valued words here.
As you stand on the threshold of this significant step in your dental career, SIMPLI BOARDS is here to support your aspirations. Best of luck, may your journey with us be a catalyst for your success!
Happy Learning!
Bench Test Preparation Courses by Simpli Boards
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Sale
Onsite Bench Test Prep
Duration: 2 weeks OR 4 weeks 24 x 7 access of …Price range: CA $2,250.00 through CA $3,000.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page - Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Sale
Virtual Bench Test Prep
Duration: 2 weeks OR 4 weeks Theory Lecture + Theory (Notes …Price range: CA $1,200.00 through CA $2,250.00 Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
