What is the application process like for dental school

Okay, so I’m starting to think about applying to dental school and honestly, I’m completely overwhelmed. I’ve looked at some general information online, but I’m finding it hard to get a real sense of what the process actually entails, step-by-step.

Specifically, I’m wondering:

• What are the exact things I need to do, and roughly in what order should I do them? I know I need to take the DAT, get letters of recommendation, and fill out the AADSAS application, but what are the specifics for each of these? What else am I missing?
• When should I start preparing for each step? I’m currently a junior, so when should I begin studying for the DAT, asking for letters, writing my personal statement, etc.? Is there a general timeline to follow?
• What makes a strong applicant? What are dental schools really looking for, beyond just a good GPA and DAT score? What kinds of extracurriculars are valued? How important is shadowing experience?
• What can I do to improve my chances of getting in? Are there specific skills or experiences that are particularly impressive to admissions committees?
• How does the interview process work? What types of questions are asked? Are there different interview formats (e.g., traditional, MMI)?
• What are some common pitfalls to avoid during the application process? What mistakes do applicants frequently make that hurt their chances?
• How much does the whole process cost? Between application fees, DAT fees, interview travel, etc., what’s a realistic budget for applying to dental school?
• Any advice for staying organized and managing stress during the application process? This seems like a really long and demanding process, and I want to be as prepared as possible.

Answer

The application process for dental school is a rigorous and multifaceted undertaking, typically spanning over a year. It involves standardized testing, academic record evaluation, personal statement writing, extracurricular documentation, letters of recommendation, and interviews. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Pre-Application Preparation:

• Academic Coursework: Dental schools typically require a strong foundation in science coursework. Prerequisite courses usually include:

  • General Biology (with lab)
  • General Chemistry (with lab)
  • Organic Chemistry (with lab)
  • Physics (with lab)
  • English Composition
  • Mathematics (Calculus and/or Statistics)
  • Biochemistry (increasingly required)

  The specific requirements can vary between schools, so prospective students should consult the admissions websites of their target programs. Maintaining a high GPA, especially in science courses, is crucial.

• DAT (Dental Admission Test): The DAT is a standardized, computer-based exam required for admission to all dental schools in the United States and Canada. It’s administered by the American Dental Association (ADA). The DAT assesses:

  • Survey of the Natural Sciences: Covers biology, general chemistry, and organic chemistry.
  • Perceptual Ability: Assesses spatial visualization skills, including 2D and 3D problem-solving.
  • Reading Comprehension: Evaluates the ability to understand, analyze, and draw conclusions from scientific passages.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: Tests mathematical skills, including algebra, trigonometry, and word problems.
  • Optional: PAT (Perceptual Ability Test): Measures spatial reasoning and visual perception skills.

  Students typically study for the DAT for several months and aim for a competitive score. The average DAT score for matriculants varies by school.

• Extracurricular Activities: Dental schools seek well-rounded applicants with diverse experiences. Important extracurricular activities include:
  • Dental Shadowing: Observing dentists in various specialties to gain exposure to the profession. Aim for at least 50-100 hours.
  • Volunteering: Demonstrating a commitment to community service and helping others.
  • Research: Participating in research projects, particularly in science or healthcare-related fields.
  • Leadership Roles: Holding leadership positions in clubs, organizations, or teams.
  • Dental-Related Activities: Assisting at dental clinics, participating in dental outreach programs, or being involved in dental assisting.
• Letters of Recommendation: Cultivate relationships with professors, dentists, and mentors who can write strong letters of recommendation highlighting your academic abilities, character, and potential as a dental student.

2. Application Submission:

• AADSAS (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service): Most U.S. dental schools utilize the AADSAS, a centralized application service.

  • Create an Account: Register on the AADSAS website and begin the application process.
  • Transcripts: Request official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. AADSAS requires official transcripts to be sent directly to them.
  • DAT Scores: Report your DAT scores to AADSAS. The ADA will send your scores electronically.
  • Personal Statement: This is a crucial component of the application. The personal statement should articulate your motivation for pursuing dentistry, your experiences that have shaped your interest in the field, your strengths and weaknesses, and your goals for the future. It should be well-written, concise, and reflective of your personality.
  • Experiences: Detail all extracurricular activities, volunteer work, research experiences, dental shadowing, and employment history.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from individuals who know you well and can speak to your qualifications. AADSAS will solicit the letters electronically from your recommenders.
  • School Selection: Select the dental schools to which you want to apply. Each school may have specific supplemental application requirements.
  • Application Fee: Pay the AADSAS application fee. Additional fees may be required for supplemental applications to individual dental schools.
  • Submission: Carefully review your application before submitting it to AADSAS.
• Supplemental Applications: Many dental schools require supplemental applications in addition to the AADSAS application. These applications typically include:
  • Essays: Additional essays addressing specific prompts related to the school’s mission, values, or programs.
  • Short Answer Questions: Brief responses to questions about your experiences, goals, or perspectives.
  • Application Fee: A separate fee for each supplemental application.

3. Interview Process:

• Invitations: Dental schools review completed applications and invite selected candidates for interviews. Interview invitations are typically sent out between the fall and spring.
• Interview Formats: Dental schools employ various interview formats:
  • Traditional Interviews: One-on-one or panel interviews with faculty members, admissions committee members, or current students.
  • Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs): A series of short, structured interview stations designed to assess different skills and attributes, such as communication, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning.
  • Group Interviews: Interviews conducted with a group of applicants, often involving discussions or problem-solving activities.
• Interview Preparation: Prepare for interviews by:
  • Researching the School: Learn about the school’s curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and mission.
  • Practicing Common Interview Questions: Prepare answers to frequently asked questions about your motivation for dentistry, your strengths and weaknesses, your experiences, and your goals.
  • Preparing Questions to Ask: Formulate thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers to demonstrate your interest in the program.
  • Dressing Professionally: Wear professional attire to the interview.
  • Being Punctual: Arrive on time for the interview.
  • Demonstrating Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the school and the dental profession.

4. Admissions Decisions:

• Acceptance Offers: Dental schools make admissions decisions based on a holistic review of the applicant’s qualifications, including academic record, DAT scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and interview performance.
• Waitlists: Some applicants may be placed on a waitlist. Waitlisted applicants may be offered admission if positions become available.
• Acceptance Deadlines: Accepted applicants must respond to the offer of admission by a specified deadline.

5. Post-Acceptance:

• Deposit: Submit a deposit to secure your place in the entering class.
• Background Check: Undergo a background check.
• Immunizations: Provide documentation of required immunizations.
• Orientation: Attend orientation programs prior to the start of classes.

Timeline:

• Spring/Summer: Study for the DAT. Request transcripts and letters of recommendation. Begin drafting your personal statement.
• June/July: Take the DAT.
• June – February: AADSAS Application Cycle opens. Submit your AADSAS application as early as possible, as rolling admissions are used by many schools.
• July – March: Complete supplemental applications for individual dental schools.
• September – April: Interview invitations are sent out and interviews are conducted.
• December – May: Acceptances are offered.
• Summer: Prepare for dental school orientation.

The application process is competitive, and successful applicants typically have strong academic records, competitive DAT scores, meaningful extracurricular experiences, and compelling personal statements. Thorough preparation and attention to detail are essential for a successful application.