When applying to advanced standing or international dentist programs in the U.S., your recommendation letters (Letters of Evaluation or LORs) can be just as important as your grades or test scores. They give admissions committees with a window into your character, professionalism, and clinical ability. But the big question is: who should you ask to write them?
1. Dental Faculty from Your Home Country
- Professors who taught you in core clinical subjects (Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, etc.) are highly valuable.
- They can highlight your clinical competence, patient care skills, and professional ethics.
- Choose someone who remembers you well and can speak in detail, not just a senior professor with a big title.
2. Supervisors or Mentors in the U.S.
- If you’ve shadowed, worked, or volunteered under a U.S. dentist, their recommendation carries extra weight.
- Admissions committees appreciate insights into how you’ve adapted to the U.S. dental system.
- Even a supervising dentist (if you’re working as a hygienist/assistant) can offer strong context.
- Schools prefers letters from someone who knows you for longer duration’s.(Ideally more than 8 months)
3. Public Health or Research Mentors
- If you are pursuing an MPH, PhD, or have research experience, ask professors or research supervisors.
- They can highlight your critical thinking, academic skills, and contribution to public health or scientific knowledge.
- This shows that you bring more than just clinical skills—you contribute to the broader healthcare field.
4. Professional or Community Leaders (Supplementary)
- Leaders from volunteer organizations or public health initiatives can give an optional letter.
- These should not replace dental/academic letters but can add depth by showing leadership, communication skills, and service orientation.
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