Frequently Asked Questions

Undergraduate

DOES THE UNDERGRADUATE SCHOOL I ATTEND MATTER FOR MY APPLICATION?

The answer to this question varies between different dental schools. While your undergraduate institution may play a role in admissions of some schools, other simply do not look at it. The bottom line is that it is neither the most nor least significant factor.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A D.D.S. AND D.M.D. DEGREE?

The D.D.S. degree stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery and the D.M.D. degree stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine. According to the ADA (American Dental Association), they are essentially the same degree. Both degrees have the same curriculum requirements and are awarded by an accredited dental school. It is up to each individual school to decide which degree they would offer to the students.

DO I NEED TO BE A SCIENCE MAJOR TO APPLY TO DENTAL SCHOOL?

No, you do not have to be of a science major to apply to dental schools. However, there are a number of science course requirements that must be fulfilled before you can matriculate into dental school. In addition to the biology, chemistry and physics courses, different schools also vary in their requirements of upper-level courses, such as biochemistry, anatomy, etc. It is recommended that you obtain the updated, complete list of course requirements from the website of each school you wish to apply to.

The DAT

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR THE DAT?

You will first need to obtain a DENTPIN on the ADA website (write it down somewhere because this number is important). The ADA website has more information on this and the rest of the process: https://www.ada.org/en/education-careers/dental-admission-test/apply-to-take-the-dat.

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE THE DAT?

It is recommended that you take the DAT after completing the prerequisites of biology and general and organic chemistry. The DAT score is only valid for 2 years, so many students take it after their 3rd year or the year before they apply in case they decide they want to retake it (up to 3 times unless you get special permission by the ADA).

WHAT IS A COMPETITIVE DAT SCORE?

For some students, a high DAT score in the sciences/academic average may truly boost their applications. However, others might have lower scores, yet exceed in other areas on their application. The national average for the DAT is 19, and UTHSCSA's class of 2027 had an average DAT score of 21.3.

You may find the average DAT score on the website of each dental school to obtain an idea of competitiveness. However, your DAT score is only a part of your application. Different schools vary in their emphasis on different elements on the application, such as the personal statement, interview, GPA, and extracurriculars.