Admissions FAQ's
To assist you in navigating the application process and understanding our guidelines, we have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). This section provides detailed answers on many topics including eligibility, requirements, submission deadlines, and general policy. Reviewing these FAQs is highly recommended.
DAT FAQ
How recent must DAT scores be to be considered for Fall 2026 admission?
- Only scores from tests taken in 2023, 2024, or 2025 will be considered for Fall 2026 admission.
- Check Each School: It is essential to check the official admissions requirements for every dental program you are interested in, as some schools may have a more strict limit.
Is there a minimum DAT academic average or subsection score needed for admission consideration?
- Unlike in previous admission cycles, we no longer have a minimum DAT score requirement for admission consideration. This change is due to the DAT's new scoring system.
- However, preference will be given to those candidates who have achieved academic averages of 370 or better.
- For more information on the updated scoring scales, please refer to the ADA Understanding the New DAT Score Reporting Scale.
If I take the DAT multiple times, will only my highest score be considered?
- All official DAT scores taken in 2023, 2024, and 2025 that are submitted to the AADSAS portal will be reviewed for admission consideration.
I just completed the DAT and have an unofficial score report. Can I submit it for consideration?
- No. We only accept official score reports submitted through the AADSAS portal.
- Our committee will be able to view your official DAT scores once they are submitted to AADSAS.
- Please do not send or e-mail copies of your DAT score reports to our admissions office. They will not be considered.
When should I take the DAT exam?
- It depends. Most students tend to take the DAT exam during their junior year of undergraduate, but this is completely up to you. Take it when you feel truly prepared.
- Please remember that DAT scores are only valid for a certain period of time and you should consider this when taking your exam. Additionally, official DAT scores take time to reach the AADSAS portal.
- Important: Our school is not responsible for the timing of when official DAT scores are uploaded into AADSAS. Remember, we do not accept unofficial DAT score reports.
When DAT study guides do you recommend?
- Unfortunately, we’re unable to recommend specific DAT study guides, as we don’t directly oversee that part of the preparation process.
- We recommend reaching out to one of our current student mentors, who can provide valuable firsthand advice based on their own experience.
What is your average DAT score?
- The Academic Average for fall 2025 incoming students was 21.5.
- Important: You do not need to achieve our average score to be admitted. Incoming student academic averages ranged from 18 to 28.
- Historical average DAT scores can be found in the Commission on Dental Accreditation’s Survey of Dental Education.
Can I place my application on hold while I am taking another DAT?
- No. If a student has a completed application, our office does not place it on hold while awaiting additional DAT scores.
- Because we use a holistic admissions process, submitting new scores does not guarantee an interview invitation. However, if updated DAT scores are received, they will certainly be considered as part of the interview evaluation.
How do I submit new DAT scores?
- Submitting updated DAT scores follows the same process as submitting the original score reports.
- Please do not send copies, as unofficial score reports will not be reviewed for admission consideration.