ELECTIVES ASIA
Career Gateway For The New Millennium
DENTISTRY
Elevate Your Dental Journey with an Unforgettable Elective Experience in the Philippines
Turn your dental training into an unforgettable adventure with our Dental Elective Program in the Philippines! Designed for both aspiring and current dental students, this program blends hands-on clinical practice, cultural immersion, and community outreach. Experience real-world dentistry in a developing nation where you’ll encounter unique cases—like advanced oral infections, severe caries, and oral-facial trauma—while gaining a deeper understanding of global healthcare challenges and the impact of accessible dental care.
Dentistry Departments for Elective Rotations
City Health Unit
You’ll gain valuable experience in a busy urban public health setting. Under the supervision of local dentists, you’ll observe and assist in routine dental procedures such as extractions, restorations, and oral prophylaxis for a wide range of patients. You’ll also help deliver preventive care programs, including fluoride applications, dental screenings, and oral health education in schools and community centers.
This placement provides insight into urban dental public health operations, patient management in high-volume clinics, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
Rural Health Units
You’ll experience dentistry in a community-based and resource-limited environment.
You’ll assist local dentists in basic dental treatments and preventive care, conduct oral health education sessions in barangays and schools, and participate in mobile dental missions serving remote areas.
This placement emphasizes public health dentistry, community engagement, and adaptability, giving you a deeper understanding of rural healthcare delivery and the challenges of providing essential dental services in underserved communities.
WHAT STUDENTS LOVED ABOUT THEIR TIME WITH ELECTIVES ASIA
CHONG EN CHU
University of Queensland
“ My partner Jessie Zhu and I decided to go to the Philippines for our medical elective in Roxas City. We are normally based in Brisbane, Australia. We cannot recommend them enough. You'll be well and truly looked after by April and her partner, Nino - it honestly felt like they were our family in the Philippines. ”
FAJER BUKABAR
Kuwait University
“ I had my psychiatry elective in Capiz and Iloilo last August, and coming all the way from Kuwait, I was warmly welcomed with genuine hospitality. The staff were incredibly supportive, the experience was very helpful, and the accommodation felt just like home—exactly what I had hoped for. The Philippines is a beautiful country with kind people, and I would definitely recommend this program to anyone considering an international elective. ”
THOMPSON TAYLOR
The University of Sheffield
“ I had the best time on our ventures in the Philippines. We were provided with not only an excellent dental experience but also many fun activities. April and the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us and make us feel welcome throughout our stay.
Couldn’t recommend dental and medical students to join the program highly enough! ”
Program Features
📅 Flexible
Duration
Tailor your experience to fit your schedule! Choose from flexible program lengths ranging from 2 to 4 weeks.
💰Affordable
Fees
Take advantage of our affordable elective fees with flexible installment plans, making your elective more accessible and manageable for you!.
💼 Full Support System
Our dedicated team takes care of logistics, cultural orientation, and on-ground support, allowing you to focus on learning and
🎓 Open to Medical Students & Graduates
This program is designed just for you—whether you’re currently enrolled or have already completed medical school, you’re welcome to join and take the next step in your journey!
✍️ Simple
Application Process
Simply submit your inquiry, and we’ll promptly assist you; then, complete the registration form, upload your documents, and let us guide you through the pre-departure process..
FAQ'S
1. What is an elective or placement, and how does it work in the Philippines? An elective or placement is a short-term, immersive learning opportunity designed to give students practical experience in their chosen field. In the Philippines, we collaborate with hospitals, clinics, and institutions to offer supervised, hands-on training in real-world settings.
2. Who is eligible to join Electives Asia’s programs abroad? Our programs are open to students and professionals currently enrolled in or pursuing degrees in medicine, nursing, dentistry, midwifery, biomedical science, and diagnostic radiography.
3. How do I apply for an elective placement? To apply, complete our online contact form with the following details: full name, email address, phone number, school name, chosen program, course, year level, preferred duration, group size (if applicable), desired start date, and any questions you may have. You can also request a call for further discussion.
4. Is there an application fee? No, there is no application fee. However, placements are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your chosen dates, a £200 non-refundable registration fee is required. This fee must be paid within 7 days after submitting your online registration form. Once you confirm your decision to proceed with your elective, our team will send you the registration form link.
5. When should I apply for an elective? We recommend applying at least 3 to 6 months in advance to secure your preferred placement dates. This also gives you enough time to arrange travel documents and book your flights early — helping you save on airfare.
6. How long can I stay for an elective placement? Elective placements typically last 2 to 4 weeks, though the duration can vary depending on your program and schedule. In some cases, a longer stay may be arranged based on availability and approval.
7. What documents do I need to provide? Please prepare and submit the following documents: •Student profile with details of your clinical experience, signed by your school or bearing the official school seal •Certificate of Student Status, diploma, or school transcript with an official seal •Reference or endorsement letter from your school, signed or sealed officially •Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months prior to your arrival) •Vaccination records •Recent headshot photo (taken within the last 3 months) •Signed waiver by you, your school, and a parent/guardian (template available upon request) •Insurance coverage — Medical, Travel, and Indemnity •Visa (if required, depending on your nationality and duration of stay)
8. Can I travel with my family or partner? Yes, you’re welcome to travel with your family or partner. However, please note that non-elective participants are not eligible for Electives Asia accommodation under our program. That said, our team will gladly offer guidance and local recommendations to help your spouse or family members settle comfortably and make the most of their stay while you complete your elective.
9. Do I get paid? No, our elective programs are unpaid and are intended solely for educational and experiential learning. They offer participants the valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in healthcare settings that differ from their home country — particularly within developing communities.
10. Can I do my elective with a group of friends? Absolutely! We welcome group placements and do our best to place friends together — subject to availability. It’s a great way to learn, travel, and experience healthcare abroad as a team. We recommend reaching out early to secure spots for your group.
11. Where will my placement be located? Our elective placements are based in the Philippines, specifically in the provinces of Iloilo and Capiz. These locations offer the same high-quality, hands-on learning experiences enjoyed by our past participants — combining professional growth with rich cultural immersion in some of the country’s most welcoming communities.
12. Is the Philippines safe for international students? Yes, the Philippines is generally safe and welcoming for international students. Locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, and our team ensures that you’re well-supported throughout your stay. We also provide a comprehensive safety and orientation briefing upon arrival, covering local customs and travel tips. As with any international experience, we encourage students to stay aware of their surroundings and follow basic safety precautions for a smooth and enjoyable stay.
13. What are the living costs in the Philippines? The cost of living in the Philippines is very affordable, especially for international students. You can expect to spend around £5–£20 per day on meals, transportation, and personal expenses — depending on your lifestyle. This means you can enjoy a comfortable, enriching stay while experiencing the best of Filipino culture at a great value.
14. What is the local culture like in the Philippines? The Philippines is celebrated for its warm hospitality, friendly locals, and vibrant mix of cultures. English is widely spoken, making communication easy and helping international students feel right at home. Filipinos value respect, community, and kindness, and you’ll quickly notice how welcoming and inclusive the environment is. When engaging in professional settings, modest attire and politeness are appreciated — and keeping an open, respectful attitude will make your cultural experience even more rewarding.
15. Are vaccinations required before traveling? Yes, we highly recommend that students are up to date with key vaccinations before travelling to the Philippines. These include COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Dengue, Rabies, and Tetanus, as well as malaria prophylaxis if you plan to visit rural areas. Staying protected ensures a safe, worry-free experience throughout your elective and allows you to fully enjoy your time in the Philippines.