Overview
The Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship examinations, or ISFEs, are open to candidates in recognised UK and Irish specialty training pathways. The Diploma of Fellowship in a specific specialty shows that by the end of your training programme, you have the knowledge and experience, as well as having satisfied the necessary training programme requirements, to proceed to practice independently as a consultant.
Successful candidates in these exams can join the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow as a Fellow and use the specialty postnominal to demonstrate expertise in their field.
Sit your ISFE exam with us
The ISFE assesses advanced clinical knowledge and skills required for consultant-level dental practice. It includes Part A (written) and Part B (clinical and oral).
ISFE Dental Public Health
Demonstrate your specialist expertise and commitment to population-level oral health through the Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE) in Dental Public Health.
ISFE Oral Medicine
Showcase your advanced clinical knowledge and readiness for consultant-level practice through the Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE) in Oral Medicine.
ISFE Oral Surgery
The award of the Diploma of fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is an internationally recognised qualification that confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in oral surgery.
ISFE Orthodontics
The award of the Diploma of Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is an internationally recognised qualification that confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in orthodontics.
ISFE Paediatric Dentistry
The award of the Diploma of Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is an internationally recognised qualification that confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in paediatric dentistry.
ISFE Restorative Dentistry
The award of the Diploma of Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is an internationally recognised qualification that confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in restorative dentistry.
Applications to ISFE
To apply for an Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE), you must first log in or register with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. When applications open, eligible candidates can complete the application form, upload the required supporting documents, and pay the exam fee through the College’s secure examinations portal.
Required documentation includes confirmation of enrolment in a recognised UK or Irish specialty training programme and formal approval from your postgraduate training lead. Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation and further instructions regarding your exam. You can find more information on applications for each exam by visiting the exam pages above.
Exam locations
You can apply to complete the ISFE through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Examination locations vary by exam diet and availability but are typically delivered at approved venues across the UK.
Part A (Written)
Delivered online with remote proctoring, allowing candidates to take the exam from a suitable location of their choice, subject to technical and environmental requirements.
Part B (clinical/structured oral assessment)
Held in person at designated centres in the UK. The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow supports delivery at selected venues based on candidate numbers and logistical needs.
Full venue details will be provided in your joining instructions after a successful application. Please check which locations are available for your selected exam diet when applying.
Your Diploma
Following your successful completion of the Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE), you will be awarded your Diploma and become eligible for fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
Once you have passed both Part A and Part B of the ISFE, your Diploma will be issued and posted to you.
You will also be invited to celebrate your achievement and formal admission as a Fellow at one of our Diploma Ceremonies, held multiple times each year at our College in Glasgow.
Advance your career with college membership
Joining the College connects you with a global community of specialist professionals dedicated to advancing excellence in patient care and clinical expertise across disciplines.
As a Fellow, you’ll gain access to exclusive resources that support your ongoing professional development—including discounts on advanced courses and events, a library of digital learning tools, and the use of internationally recognised postnominals.
You’ll be eligible to apply for fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow following successful completion of an Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE).
Frequently asked questions
The Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination (ISFE) is the final assessment in UK and Irish dental specialty training. It confirms your readiness for independent consultant-level practice and eligibility for fellowship of a Royal College.
The ISFE is available in multiple dental specialties including:
- Dental Public Health
- Oral Medicine
- Oral Surgery
- Orthodontics
- Paediatric Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
Yes. The ISFE is a nationally recognised examination required for the award of a Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST) and for eligibility for consultant posts in the UK and Ireland.
Recognition and career advancement
Use your membership to demonstrate commitment to excellence and enhance your specialist registration journey.
Join a global community
Connect with like-minded professionals committed to advancing and shaping the future of healthcare.
Unlock benefits
Get access to exclusive membership benefits, including discounts on courses, conferences, exams, scholarships and support.
Any questions about this exam?
Our team is here to help. Email us via the link below, or phone +44 (0) 141 221 6072.
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