Overview
The Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery Diploma, or, MFDS for short, is an internationally recognised qualification that entitles you to become a member of a UK Royal College. The exam is in two parts – which can both be completed with us.
The MFDS is a key part of advancing your dental career and pursuing opportunities such as specialist training.
The MFDS goes beyond your foundation training curriculum and demonstrates you have the required knowledge to enter specialist practice.
MFDS exams
The MFDS exam assesses the clinical knowledge and communication skills expected of dentists in training. It includes Part 1 (written) and Part 2 (OSCE). Read more about each part below.
MFDS Part 1
MFDS Part 1 is a written examination that tests the applied clinical knowledge and understanding required for safe and effective dental practice.
MFDS Part 2
MFDS Part 2 is a practical examination that assesses your clinical, communication, and professional skills required for safe and effective dental practice.
Applications to MFDS
To apply for the MFDS examinations, you must first register or log in to your account with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Candidates can then choose from the available examination diets for Part 1 or Part 2 and complete the online application process.
You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as proof of your dental qualification (and MFDS Part 1 pass confirmation for Part 2), and pay the applicable exam fee online. Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation and further instructions for your exam.
Exam locations
You can apply to our College to complete all stages of the MRCS exams. As well as Glasgow, we also run centres in the following locations:
Part 1 (Written)
Online
Part 2 (OSCE)
At present, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow does not offer MFDS Part 2 at international or regional UK centres. All candidates must attend the examination in person at the College’s Glasgow campus with some exceptions to Manchester upon high demand.
- Glasgow
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
232–242 St Vincent Street, Glasgow, G2 5RJ, UK - Manchester
Venue details vary and are confirmed in the joining instructions upon successful application.
These locations are used depending on exam diet, demand, and capacity. While Glasgow remains the primary venue, Manchester is a regular alternative offered to support wider access within the UK.
Always check the specific exam diet details when applying to see which locations are available.
Your Diploma
Following your successful completion of the MFDS examination, you will be awarded your Diploma and become eligible for membership of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
Once you have passed both Part 1 and Part 2 of the MFDS, we will send your Diploma by post.
We also invite you to celebrate your achievement, and your admission to the College as a Member, 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 MFDS exams.
Frequently asked questions
Anyone holding a primary dental qualification from a recognised institution, or final-year dental students, can apply for MFDS Part 1. To sit Part 2, you must have passed Part 1.
- Part 1 is offered online and at centres in the UK and internationally.
- Part 2 is delivered in person at selected UK locations, including Glasgow and Manchester
- Part 1 is a written, multiple-choice exam testing applied clinical knowledge.
- Part 2 is an OSCE-style exam assessing communication, professionalism and clinical decision-making.
Yes. Candidates who are unsuccessful in Part 1 or Part 2 may retake the exam in a future diet. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but you must submit a new application and pay the exam fee for each attempt.
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.
Contact us