Overview
The College acts as the Secretariat of the Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examinations Boards in Dental Specialties and is responsible for the professional conduct of the examinations on behalf of the Faculties of Dental Surgery of the:
- Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
- Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
- Royal College of Surgeons of England
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
ISFE Dental Public Health Exams
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 Part A
The Intercollegiate Specialty Fellowship Examination in Dental Public Health confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in the field and gain fellowship status.
ISFE Dental Public Health Part B
The ISFE Part B in Dental Public Health confirms your readiness to practise independently as a consultant in the specialty and supports your eligibility for fellowship with a UK Royal College.
Applications to the ISFE dental public health
To apply for the ISFE in Dental Public Health, you must first log in or register with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. When applications open, eligible candidates can submit an application form, upload supporting documentation, and pay the exam fee online through the College’s examinations portal.
Required documentation includes proof of enrolment in a recognised UK or Irish specialty training programme and confirmation of postgraduate approval. Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation and further details regarding the exam.
Exam locations
You can apply to complete the ISFE Dental Public Health examination through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Examination locations vary depending on the diet and capacity but are typically held in person at designated UK venues.
Part A (Written)
Delivered online with remote proctoring, allowing candidates to sit 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 approved UK centres. The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow supports delivery at select venues based on candidate numbers and logistical capacity.
Candidates will receive full venue details in their joining instructions upon successful application. Please check the available locations listed for your exam diet when applying.

Your Diploma
Following your successful completion of the ISFE in Dental Public Health 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 sent by post.
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 offers you the unique opportunity to become part of a global network committed to excellence in patient care and medical innovation.
As a Member, you’ll gain access to invaluable resources that’ll support your professional growth, including substantial discounts on world-class courses and conferences, a suite of digital learning tools tailored to your needs and the use of internationally recognised postnominals.
You can start your journey with us as an Affiliate Member for just £15 per year while you complete your MRCP(UK) exams.
Frequently asked questions
The exam consists of two parts:
- Part A – A written paper assessing knowledge of public health dentistry
- Part B – A structured oral and portfolio-based assessment evaluating readiness for consultant-level practice
Yes. Successful completion of the ISFE is a key requirement for progression to independent consultant-level practice in Dental Public Health in the UK or Ireland.
Applications are submitted via the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. You must complete an application form, upload supporting documents, and pay the exam fee by the published deadline.
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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