How to Apply and Get Accepted to Dental School

If you are considering a career as an orthodontist or dentist, then you must attend dental school after graduating from college. Applying to dental schools is not a complicated process, but there are many steps to follow. Well-prepared applicants start the process early to ensure that they gain admission to top dental school programs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. As an undergraduate, maintain high grades in your major and required pre-dentistry courses, such as chemistry, biology, physics, and math. Dental schools look closely at your grades in foundational science courses, as well as your major GPA. It is not necessary to have a science major. Talk to a pre-med or pre-dental adviser to find out which courses you should take.

2. Join a pre-dental student association or club, if your school sponsors such a club. Universities that have a dental school will usually have a formal group for pre-dental students. This can help you make contacts and get advice from older peers.

3. Research dental schools and dentistry specialties during your junior year of college. Consider their location, cost, selectivity, and whether the schools offer programs in your preferred area of specialty. Some areas within dentistry are orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery, and dental public health.

4. Study for the DAT--Dental Admission Test. This is a standardized test required for admission to dental school in the US and Canada. The test contains multiple choice questions on biology, chemistry, physics, reading, perceptual ability, and mathematical reasoning.

5. Next, apply to take the DAT by filling out the preliminary application form on the ADA website. Once you have been granted permission to take the test and have paid the $205 fee, you can schedule an exam. The exam is computerized and can be taken year round at a Prometric Center.
   
   Admission to dental school is becoming increasingly competitive, but high DAT scores can open many doors.

6. At the beginning of your Senior year, take the DAT and start gathering application materials. You will need to get transcripts and letters of recommendation, as well as prepare a statement of purpose. Completing a senior thesis or project can improve your application to dental schools.

7. Send your application materials and pay the fees. If you have invested time and energy into making an outstanding application to dental school, you have a good chance of being admitted to a top program.