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. 
  • 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.
Sending Your DAT Scores to AADSAS
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.
Prospective Student Mentorship
What is your average DAT score?
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.
Submitting DAT Scores