Dental School Application Checklist

Science GPA is weighted heavily — prioritize chemistry and biology courses from day one

Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry (all with labs), Physics, Biochemistry — verify each school's specific requirements

Most schools require 1–2 semesters of English composition

If GPA is below 3.2, speak with a pre-health advisor about post-bac options or grade replacement strategies

Check each school's admissions page — requirements vary significantly between programs

Use DAT Bootcamp as your primary resource. Give yourself 3–4 months of dedicated study time minimum

Score 22+ to be competitive at top programs. Schedule at least 2 months before AADSAS opens in June

Perceptual Ability is a use-it-or-lose-it skill. Daily practice is required — it cannot be crammed

Schools see all scores. Only retake if you're consistently hitting your target on practice exams

Start with your own dentist, then reach out to other offices. Document everything — date, office, specialty, hours, and key observations

Orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics, or pediatric dentistry in addition to general — demonstrates genuine exploration

Working as a dental assistant, receptionist, or sterilization tech counts as direct experience and is viewed very favorably

Write what you observed, what surprised you, and what it confirmed about your decision after each session

Get involved early — leadership positions are more impactful than membership alone

Dental-related service (free clinic volunteering, hygiene drives) is most relevant but any sustained community commitment counts

Host a dental club, write or publish something, create a community health initiative — anything that makes your application distinctive

Even one semester in a lab adds meaningful differentiation. Contact faculty in biology, chemistry, or at a local dental school

Two science professors and one dentist who knows you well. Build these relationships over time — not two weeks before you need the letter

Give recommenders your CV, personal statement draft, and specific talking points. Follow up 3 weeks before your submission deadline

Open with a specific scene, show your journey, and articulate where you're going. Revise at least 5 times. Have others read it.

Mix of safety, target, and reach schools. Confirm in-state vs out-of-state eligibility. Research each school's mission and average stats.

Rolling admissions means early applicants have a significant advantage. Aim for the first two weeks after the cycle opens.

Schools notice fast secondaries. Research each school before writing — generic answers don't work

Research every school before your interview. Practice answering common questions out loud. Know why you chose that specific program.

Brief, specific, professional. Reference something from the interview to make it personal.