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Getting into dental school is notoriously challenging. You'll need a strong academic background, often in subjects like biochemistry, physics, or biology, a solid GPA, and a high score on the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Additionally, meaningful extracurricular activities play a crucial role. To enhance your chances and make your dental school application stand out, GIRE offers remote fellowship and internship programs with top U.S. professors for medical, pharmacy, and dental school applicants.


 

How To Get Into Dental School

Typical Path to Becoming a Dentist in the U.S.

Becoming a dentist in the U.S. usually requires a total of 8 years: 4 years of undergraduate education followed by 4 years in dental school. After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll need to pass the DAT or VCAT to gain entry into dental school. There are about 45 schools in the U.S. that accept international students, and the competition is fierce. Given the lengthy and competitive nature of the process, most students start preparing for dental school from their first year of undergraduate studies. 

Key Requirements

1. High GPA

Having a high Grade Point Average (GPA) is advantageous. Admissions committees set GPA benchmarks and then assess applicants' DAT scores. Most institutions interview only those who score well in both the DAT and GPA areas. Aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and check each dental school’s minimum requirements.
 

2. DAT Exam

The DAT is a mandatory part of the admission process. The average score for dental school applicants is 19, with a maximum possible score of 30. Check the minimum required scores for each school.
 

DAT Exam Components:

   - Survey of Natural Sciences (Biology, General Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry)

   - Perceptual Ability Test (PAT)

   - Reading Comprehension Test

   - Quantitative Reasoning Test
 

Application: ADA (American Dental Association)

Exam Type: Computer-based
Important Notes: You can retake the exam every 3 months, and previous scores are included. Scores are valid for 2 years.

Exam Duration: 4 hours 

Cost: $445
 

3. Meaningful Portfolio Activities

If your GPA and DAT scores meet the minimum standards, admissions committees will consider your portfolio, including your autobiography and references. Academic performance is just one factor; dental schools look for well-rounded and capable students. Highlight experiences such as working in a dental office, volunteer work (300 hours recommended), internships, and dental shadowing (100 hours recommended).

4. Prerequisite Courses

Although a science degree is not required, you must fulfill prerequisite courses. Typically, undergraduate students major in non-science fields while completing the necessary prerequisites.
 

Prerequisite Courses Include:

   - Two semesters of Biology (with lab)

   - Two semesters of General Chemistry (with lab)

   - Two semesters of Organic Chemistry (with lab)

   - Two semesters of Physics (with lab)

   - Additional courses in English, social sciences, arts, or advanced biology

5. Letters of Recommendation

To showcase your experiences and personal qualities, you need letters of recommendation. Typically, three letters are required, with one ideally coming from a dentist you have shadowed or worked with. Networking is essential for obtaining strong recommendations.
 

6. Interview Preparation

Prepare thoroughly for dental school interviews. You may be asked about manual dexterity, so developing skills through activities like drawing, playing an instrument, sculpting, or sewing is beneficial. Be ready to discuss time management and relevant experiences.
 

7. Secondary Application

Many dental schools require a Secondary Application, which involves additional essays or personal information. Obtain this through AADSAS and submit it along with the application fee.

 

How to Apply to Dental Schools

Apply through the AADSAS (American Association of Dental Schools Application Service) website, where you can find supplemental applications for various dental schools. Students applying to Texas dental schools should use TMDSAS (Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service). Since many dental schools use rolling admissions, applying early can increase your chances of securing a spot. Check whether the schools you are interested in accept international students. (※ Click here for more information.)

 

Key Dates and Statistics for U.S. Dental Schools (2023)

According to recent data, the average acceptance rate for U.S. dental schools is about 40%.
 

Schools with High Acceptance Rates

   - University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry: 29.4%

   - Medical University of South Carolina James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine: 25.1%

   - East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine: 15.8%

 

Tips for Improving Your Chances

1. Participate in Research

Show your deep interest in the field by engaging in research that develops critical thinking, collaboration, and analytical skills.

2. Demonstrate Leadership and Community Involvement

Highlight your leadership and volunteer experiences, whether through planning clubs, organizing events, or volunteering at shelters or community organizations.
 

3. Engage in Extracurricular Activities

Strengthen your application with extracurricular activities that reflect your interests and skills, even if they are not directly related to dentistry.

4. Gain Clinical Experience and Shadowing Hours

While not always required, clinical experience and shadowing are preferred by some schools and provide strong recommendations.

5. Prepare for the CASPer Test

Many dental schools require the CASPer test to assess suitability for the profession. It evaluates communication skills, professionalism, critical thinking, and other soft skills.

6. Ace the Interview

Prepare for challenging interview questions and general inquiries about yourself. Be ready to discuss your experiences and strengths.