SDLE Exam 2025: Complete Saudi Dental Licensure Examination Guide
Unlock your dental career in Saudi Arabia with our comprehensive guide to the Saudi Dental Licensure Examination, administered by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). Tailored for Saudi students and expatriates, this page offers everything you need to ace the Prometric SDLE exam in 2025.
Exam Duration
4 hours (240 minutes, split into two 2-hour parts with a 30-minute break)
Total Questions
200 MCQs (100 per part)
Passing Score
65% (Registrar level for general dentists)
Validity Period
5 years
What is the SDLE Exam?
The Saudi Dental Licensure Examination (SDLE) is a mandatory Prometric-administered test for Saudi dental students and expatriate dentists seeking to practice general dentistry in Saudi Arabia. Overseen by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS), the SDLE ensures that candidates possess the clinical knowledge, skills, and professionalism required to deliver high-quality dental care. Whether you’re a recent BDS graduate or an experienced dentist, passing the SDLE is your gateway to a rewarding career in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector.
SDLE Eligibility Requirements for 2025
- Recognized Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent degree from an accredited institution
- Completed 1-year internship (mandatory for Saudi nationals)
- Minimum 2 years of clinical experience post-internship (for expatriates)
- 5 years of experience if applying to work under the Saudi Ministry of Health (foreigners)
- Active registration on SCFHS Mumaris Plus portal with eligibility number
Saudi nationals need a 1-year internship, while expatriates require additional experience. Register via the SCFHS Mumaris Plus portal to obtain your eligibility number, valid for one year, before scheduling your exam with Prometric.
SDLE Exam Syllabus and Topics for 2025
The SDLE tests a wide range of topics to evaluate your readiness for general dentistry practice in Saudi Arabia. Below is the detailed syllabus breakdown:
Basic Dental Sciences
Foundational knowledge critical for understanding dental structures, functions, and material applications in clinical practice.
- Oral Anatomy & Histology
- Physiology & Biochemistry
- Pathology & Microbiology
- Pharmacology & Therapeutics
- Dental Materials Science
Clinical Dental Sciences
Core clinical skills and procedures tested to ensure competency in general dentistry practice in Saudi Arabia.
- Restorative Dentistry & Endodontics
- Periodontics & Implantology
- Prosthodontics (Fixed & Removable)
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Oral Medicine, Pathology & Radiology
Professional & Behavioral Sciences
Ethical, legal, and public health principles aligned with SCFHS standards for dental practitioners.
- Dental Public Health & Epidemiology
- Ethics & Professionalism
- Infection Control & Patient Safety
- Evidence-Based Dentistry
- Saudi Healthcare Laws & Regulations
How to Prepare for the SDLE Exam in 2025
Effective preparation is key to passing the SDLE on your first attempt. Follow these expert strategies tailored for Saudi dental students and professionals:
Create a Structured Study Plan
Develop a 12-16 week study schedule, dedicating 20% to basic sciences, 60% to clinical dentistry, and 20% to professional practice. Use a calendar to track progress and ensure all topics are covered.
Master MCQs with Extensive Practice
Solve over 2,500 practice questions focusing on high-yield areas like restorative dentistry, oral surgery, and endodontics. Use online question banks to simulate the Prometric format.
Simulate Exam Conditions
Take at least 3-5 full-length mock exams (200 questions, 4 hours) to build endurance and master time management. Review incorrect answers to strengthen weak areas.
Focus on Weaknesses with Analytics
Analyze practice test results to pinpoint gaps in knowledge, such as pharmacology or ethics, and dedicate extra study time to those areas for a balanced preparation.
Essential SDLE Exam Details for 2025
Exam Fee
Approximately 900 SAR (around $240 USD, subject to SCFHS updates)
Exam Locations
Prometric Testing Centers in Saudi Arabia and select international locations (e.g., USA, UK, India, Philippines)
Language
English
Attempts Allowed
3 attempts (foreign candidates); reactivation required for additional tries
Results are available online via Mumaris Plus within 2-6 weeks. Foreign candidates failing three attempts may request reactivation from SCFHS for a final try after additional training.
Ready to Pass the SDLE in 2025?
Get ahead with our expertly curated SDLE question bank, full-length Prometric-style mock exams, and personalized study resources designed for Saudi dental students and professionals.