Destination Dental School
Destination Dental School is an intense gateway experience for undergraduate students and bachelor degree recipients who are interested in a career in dentistry. This program prepares individuals to successfully apply to dental school.
In this annual summer program, DDS Fellows learn about the dental profession, dental school application, financing strategies, and the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), participate in hands-on activities, conduct research projects, and network with faculty mentors, dental students and community leaders.
Students attend six virtual sessions held on Saturdays in April and May, and a five-day, in-person, intensive training program at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. DDS Fellows' travel and lodging expenses are covered through our program. Graduates receive reimbursement for one DAT and a waived application fee to the UBSDM.
How to Apply
Apply now! The 2026 application is open.
The application cycle for the 2026 Destination Dental School program will be open from Dec. 15, 2025, to Feb. 16, 2026. Please contact Ms. Jessica Scates at jmscates@buffalo.edu with any questions.
The 2026 Destination Dental School application is open from Dec. 15, 2026, to Feb. 16, 2026 at 8 a.m. (ET). Applications will be accepted during this time. All application components, including two letters of reference, must be received by the application deadline in order for your application to be reviewed.
Preparing Your Application
To avoid lost content due to technology glitches, we encourage you to consider preparing your application offline using the list of the application components as a reference.
The required application components include:
- 2026 DDS Program Application
- FAFSA Student Aid Index
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Transcript (Unofficial is accepted)
- Two letters of recommendation
Incomplete Applications
Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Letters of Recommendation
This application requires two (2) letters of recommendation from professionals who know you well (professor, advisor, supervisor, etc.). Professional letters of recommendation cannot be family members or friends. Your recommenders must send their letters directly to the Destination Dental School Director, Ms. Jessica Scates, at jmscates@buffalo.edu before the application deadline. Please note, letters of recommendation are a part of the application package. Applications without letters of recommendation will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.
Application Review
All application packages are reviewed holistically. In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria outlined, preference will be given to candidates based on the following qualities: investigation of the profession, persistence and resilience, commitment to service, pursuit of leadership and communication and accuracy.
Use of Generative AI
While the application committee understands and appreciates the power of AI in today’s world, we believe it must be used appropriately. Please refrain from using AI to generate answers to questions posed within this application.
Questions?
Please direct questions about Destination Dental School to:
Jessica Scates
Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Operations
Office of the Dean