A coalition of dental organizations, led by the California Dental Association, is advocating for dentistry to be added to the STEM-designated degree list.
By receiving a STEM designation, the Optional Practical Training program would be extended from 12 months to 36 months, supporting international dental students and longer H-1B work visas, according to a Nov. 9 news release from the CDA.
The additional 24 months of training would provide dental employers with more time to evaluate candidates and navigate sponsorship logistics.
The current administrative requirements often deter employers from sponsoring international dental graduates, even when there is a workforce need.
The American Dental Association, the American Dental Education Association, the American Student Dental Association, the National Network for Oral Health Access and the American Public Health Association joined the CDA in pushing for a STEM designation for dentistry.
Nearly one-fifth of all dental graduates needing an H-1B visa are trained in California, the release said.
