ORE Paper A vs ORE Paper B: which paper needs more of your time?
Paper A tests the science behind dentistry: anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology and human disease, pharmacology, materials and statistics. Paper B tests clinical dentistry plus UK law, ethics and health and safety. Both are 3-hour computer-based papers taken in the same sitting, each with its own standard-set pass mark (50.5% for A and 54.3% for B in August 2026), and you must pass both to move on to Part 2. Overseas-trained dentists usually find Paper B's UK-specific content the bigger gap.
ORE Paper A vs ORE Paper B at a glance
| ORE Paper A | ORE Paper B | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | ORE Part 1 Paper A: Dental Science and Human Disease | ORE Part 1 Paper B: Clinical Dentistry, Law, Ethics and Health and Safety |
| Questions | Single best answer (SBA) and extended matching questions (EMQs); the GDC doesn't publish the number of items | Single best answer (SBA) and extended matching questions (EMQs); the GDC doesn't publish the number of items |
| Time | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Passing score | Standard-set for each sitting and not given in advance. In August 2026 the minimum pass score for Paper A was 50.5% | Standard-set for each sitting and not given in advance. In August 2026 the minimum pass score for Paper B was 54.3% |
| Format | Closed book, computer-based | Closed book, computer-based |
| Cost | £485 per attempt for ORE Part 1 (Papers A and B together), plus a one-time £115 ORE application fee (GDC, 2026) | £485 per attempt for ORE Part 1 (Papers A and B together), plus a one-time £115 ORE application fee (GDC, 2026) |
| Languages | English | English |
| Where | UCL Consultants for the GDC, computer-based at an exam venue in London | UCL Consultants for the GDC, computer-based at an exam venue in London |
| Level | ORE Part 1 | ORE Part 1 |
What each exam covers
ORE Paper A
- Anatomy, Dental Anatomy and Embryology
- Physiology and Biochemistry
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Pathology and Human Disease
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Dental Materials Science
- Statistics and Evidence-Based Dentistry
ORE Paper B
- Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
- Periodontology
- Prosthodontics
- Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
- Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine
- Dental Radiography and Radiation Protection
- Law, Ethics and Professionalism
- Health and Safety, Infection Control and Medical Emergencies
Which should you take?
Paper A tests the science behind dentistry: anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology and human disease, pharmacology, materials and statistics. Paper B tests clinical dentistry plus UK law, ethics and health and safety. Both are 3-hour computer-based papers taken in the same sitting, each with its own standard-set pass mark (50.5% for A and 54.3% for B in August 2026), and you must pass both to move on to Part 2. Overseas-trained dentists usually find Paper B's UK-specific content the bigger gap.
Try both, free
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FAQ
What is the difference between ORE Paper A and ORE Paper B?
Paper A tests the science behind dentistry: anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology and human disease, pharmacology, materials and statistics. Paper B tests clinical dentistry plus UK law, ethics and health and safety. Both are 3-hour computer-based papers taken in the same sitting, each with its own standard-set pass mark (50.5% for A and 54.3% for B in August 2026), and you must pass both to move on to Part 2. Overseas-trained dentists usually find Paper B's UK-specific content the bigger gap.
Which is harder, ORE Paper A or ORE Paper B?
ORE Paper A: single best answer (sba) and extended matching questions (emqs); the gdc doesn't publish the number of items in 3 hours. ORE Paper B: single best answer (sba) and extended matching questions (emqs); the gdc doesn't publish the number of items in 3 hours. The longer exam covers more ground, but the harder one is the one further from your daily work. Take both free practice tests to see where you stand.
Can I hold both ORE Paper A and ORE Paper B?
Yes, and you have to. Paper A and Paper B are taken in the same sitting and you must pass both to move on to ORE Part 2. Each paper has its own pass mark.
How do I prepare for ORE Paper A and ORE Paper B?
Start with the free practice test for each, then study by topic. Premium is per exam (£107 a month each), so most people start with the exam they'll sit first and add the second when they're ready.
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Exam details are summarized from the General Dental Council's published information as of November 2026. Confirm with the General Dental Council before you book. OREPart1Prep is not affiliated with the General Dental Council or its exam providers.