Overview of the SDLE
The Saudi Dental Licensure Exam (SDLE) is a mandatory requirement for all dentists, including graduates from Pakistan, who wish to practice dentistry or enroll in postgraduate training programs under the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS).
Exam Format at a Glance
- Total Questions: 300 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs). May include up to 30 unscored pilot questions.
- Duration: 6 hours total.
- Structure: Divided into 3 sections (100 MCQs + up to 10 pilot Qs each).
- Time per Section: 120 minutes.
- Breaks: Two scheduled breaks totaling 45 minutes (flexible allocation).
- Passing Score: 542 (on a 200–800 scale).
Question Types
The exam assesses a range of cognitive skills:
- Knowledge-based: Testing recall of facts and basic dental theory.
- Scenario-based: Evaluating interpretation, analysis, clinical reasoning, and decision-making skills.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply for the SDLE?
- Academic Background: Must possess a recognized Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree or equivalent from an accredited dental school.
- Final Year Students: Those within one year of graduation are eligible to apply.
- Interns: Dental interns currently completing their required rotating internship can apply.
- Graduated Dentists: Must hold a recognized BDS degree and meet SCFHS requirements (e.g., regarding continuity of practice).
Application Process
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Create an SCFHS Account:
Register through the SCFHS e-application portal (Mumaris Plus). Submit required documents like proof of graduation or expected graduation date.
Visit Mumaris Plus (Link Placeholder) - Obtain Scheduling Permit: Once your application is approved, SCFHS will issue a scheduling permit with an eligibility period. You’ll receive email instructions on accessing it.
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Choose Exam Date & Center:
Use the Prometric link provided in your eligibility email to book your test date and select a testing center (local or international options available via Prometric).
Book via Prometric (Link Placeholder)
Important Note: You cannot sit for the exam more than once within the same official exam window. If you accidentally schedule twice, only the result from your *first* attempt will be considered valid.
Exam Fee (Estimate for Pakistan)
Approximate Fee: ₨ 82,000
This is an estimated cost converted to Pakistani Rupees from the standard Prometric exam fee (originally in SAR/USD). Exchange rates fluctuate, so always verify the exact amount during the payment process.
Blueprint & Content Distribution
The SDLE covers a broad range of dental topics. Here’s the approximate weightage:
Common Topics Across Sections
Expect questions related to Local Anesthesia, Professionalism & Bioethics, and Infection Control & Patient Safety integrated throughout the exam.
Exam-Day Instructions
- Identification: Bring a valid, unexpired government-issued ID (Passport or Saudi Residence ID). Also, have a printed or electronic copy of your exam schedule/permit.
- Check-In: Arrive at the Prometric test center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Late arrival (more than 30 minutes) results in a “No Show” status.
- During the Exam: No unauthorized materials or electronic devices (phones, watches, etc.) are allowed. Follow all instructions given by the Test Center Administrator (TCA).
- Security Procedures: You will need to sign in/out and show your ID each time you leave or re-enter the testing room (e.g., for breaks).
- Breaks: You have a total of 45 minutes for breaks, which you can divide between the two scheduled break opportunities. If you exceed the total break time, the extra time will be deducted from your next testing section.
- After the Exam: Return any provided materials (like note boards) to the TCA before leaving.
Prohibitions & Misconduct
Engaging in any prohibited activities before, during, or after the exam can lead to severe consequences, including disqualification, score cancellation, and potential legal action by SCFHS.
Strictly Avoid:
- Providing false information or forged documents during application.
- Sharing or discussing specific exam questions/content with anyone.
- Attempting to copy, receive, or provide assistance during the test.
- Possessing or using unauthorized items (phones, notes, cameras, etc.) in the testing area.
- Disobeying instructions from the TCA or causing disruption.
- Memorizing exam questions for the purpose of sharing them later.
- Altering or misrepresenting your exam score report.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many times can I retake the SDLE?
You have up to four attempts within one year from your first attempt date to pass the exam. After passing, you can take it up to two more times within a year to potentially improve your score for residency applications. Later, one attempt per year is allowed for score improvement for future residency opportunities.
What is the total duration of the exam?
The total testing time is 6 hours. This is divided into three 120-minute sections. There are also two scheduled breaks totaling 45 minutes.
When are the results announced?
Exam results are typically released 2 to 6 weeks after the testing window concludes. You will receive a pass/fail notification and potentially a detailed performance report.
What is the passing score for the SDLE?
The passing score is 542 on a scaled score range of 200–800. This standard was determined by Saudi dental content experts.
What happens if I arrive late on the exam day?
If you arrive more than 30 minutes after your scheduled appointment time, you will not be allowed to enter the testing center. This will be recorded as a “No Show,” and it typically counts as one of your attempts.
Preparation Tips for Pakistani Graduates
Study Resources & Strategy
- Comprehensive Course: Consider dedicated courses like the one offered at Edubros.org.
- Study Material: “SDLE Made Easy” by Edubros is a recommended resource covering the syllabus and past papers.
- Focus on High-Yield Areas: Prioritize Restorative Dentistry (40%), Periodontics (18%), and Oral Surgery/Medicine (15%) due to their significant weightage.
- Time Management Practice: Simulate exam conditions. Practice answering MCQs efficiently to stay within the 120 minutes per 100 questions pace.
- Familiarize with FDI Numbering: The SDLE uses the FDI two-digit tooth numbering system (e.g., 11, 21, 31, 41 for central incisors). Ensure you are comfortable with it.
On Receiving Your Results
If You Pass:
- Congratulations! Proceed with the necessary SCFHS licensing and registration procedures.
- Your SDLE score is valid and can be used for postgraduate training (residency) applications within the SCFHS system.
If You Need to Retake:
- Don’t be discouraged! Carefully review your performance report (if provided) to identify weaker areas.
- Focus your study efforts on those specific topics.
- Re-register for your next attempt through the SCFHS/Prometric process (remember the four attempts per year limit).