PREPARING FOR DENTAL SCHOOL
FAQ
WHAT DO I NEED?
In short, you need:
Up to 4 Letters of Recommendation
Prerequisites completed BEFORE entering school (you can apply if you have not complete all prerequisites)
Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Official Transcripts
50-100 Shadowing Hours (varies on school)
Personal Statement (4500 characters)
​Of course, each school may vary in requirements but this is the typical minimum. In addition to this, we HIGHLY recommend participating in other extra curricular. volunteering, and dental experiences too. Detailed information about these topics can be found on their individual page on our website.
HOW CAN I BEGIN PREPARING?
Dental school is highly competitive. We recommend focusing on completing prerequisites while maintaining a GPA of at least 3.3. In addition, the DAT score is an important factor, so studying early on and taking the test before the application opens is a good idea, since the DAT can be taken up to 3 times 90 days apart (beware only most recent score is kept, not highest). In addition, investing time into extra curricular to set yourself apart from other applicants is important as well.
HOW CAN I FIND DENTISTS TO SHADOW?
Starting off with your own dentist is a good option. From there, you may ask if they have connections to other dentists, or if your family/friends may connect you with their dentist. If this doesn't help, then students typically call dentists in their local area until they find one in their area who will accept.
HOW CAN I STUDY FOR DAT?
We highly recommend you to start studying as early as possible. Students generally need at least 3 months before exam day to study for all subjects. The exam is extremely difficult, and you will need all the help you can get. Check out our DAT page for more resources or reach out to us to discuss.
WHEN SHOULD I APPLY?
Generally applications open mid-May, submissions opens in June and closes October for the admission into the following year. However dental schools use rolling admissions, so the earlier you apply, the better. Before July is considered idea. Check out this video here for more information.
HOW DO I APPLY?
One application is sent to all schools on the ADEA AADSAS website. However please be aware that schools may have varying prerequisites, fees, and supplemental questions or requests. We recommend selecting the schools that interest you and then checking their website to ensure you have completed their application requirements thoroughly. Check out ADEA AADSAS Application (currently closed) for more information.
Please email us if you have a question not answered here or anywhere else on the website!