The GDC is examining a record number of candidates for the International Qualifying Exam (IQE) — the three-part exam which tests the clinical skills and knowledge of dentists from overseas (non EEA) who wish to work in the UK. In 2006, 466 places for Part C (the third and final part of the exam) have been made available, compared to 109 in 2003.

Despite this, supply of exam places would still not meet demand in 2006, if such high numbers continue to join the exam list. This is largely due to the interest created by the active recruitment of dentists from overseas by the NHS over the last two years.

To allow existing candidates reasonable opportunity to sit the exam, the GDC has agreed to stop accepting new applications from prospective IQE candidates for a limited time, and admissions to the IQE list will be suspended from 10 April 2006.

By law, the IQE must be run by UK dental authorities. The dental schools are already coping with increased undergraduate numbers and could not reasonably commit to holding more IQE sittings. The GDC will continue to work with the dental schools to increase the number of Part C places available. However, it is unlikely that significant numbers of additional places will become available this year.

The situation will be closely monitored over the next couple of months and will be reviewed by the Council in October 2006. Hew Mathewson, president of the GDC, said it was a temporary measure and hoped to re-open the IQE list as soon as possible. All prospective candidates for the IQE have been advised to submit their application by the 10 April deadline.