13 Easiest Dental Schools to Get Into in

Easiest Dental Schools to Get into

Tips to Help You Get Accepted to Dental School

Dr. Amanda Thompson, DMD and admissions expert, knew she wanted to go to dental school but was worried that a low GPA would make it impossible. Her personal story is one that many students can relate to.

“In undergrad, I struggled going from a small high school to a large university, and I was eight hours away from my family. This caused my GPA to suffer in my first few years. I completed my undergrad and pursued a master’s degree. This time I chose a school that made more sense for me, both in size and location. I was able to excel academically in my master’s program. This showed dental schools that I was able to complete advanced coursework and also displayed my passion and determination” – Dr. Amanda Thompson, DMD, Case Western Reserve University’s School of Dental Medicine

Tip 1: Maintain a Strong GPA

Dental schools place significant emphasis on academic performance, so strive to maintain a high GPA throughout your undergraduate studies. While a perfect GPA isn't necessary, demonstrating academic excellence can strengthen your application.

If a high GPA is out of reach, check out our strategies for getting accepted with a low GPA. The University of Minnesota allows students to submit a letter explaining academic difficulties. If you have tried and failed to increase your GPA, for example, the school will accept a letter from you explaining the situation.

The University of Puerto Rico School of Dentistry is an attractive option for students who do not have the highest academic scores, but who excel in other areas like community service and dedication to dentistry.

Tip 2: Excel in the DAT

The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is a crucial component of your dental school application. Devote ample time to studying for the DAT and aim for a competitive score to enhance your chances of acceptance.

If your DAT score isn’t off the charts, consider applying to the Arizona School of Dental Health at A.T. Still University. It is not that competitive for in-state or out-of-state applicants, since it has more relaxed admission requirements than other similar sized schools. You must submit your DAT scores, but the school takes a holistic approach to admitting students and considers other factors like volunteer work and community service.

Dr. Thompson knew that the DAT could present a big hurdle to getting accepted to dental school so she devised a plan to overcome this obstacle.

“I made sure that I understood the test and format, followed a study schedule, and practiced under realistic conditions. Being more familiar with the test itself made me more confident when it was time to take it. If you know what’s to come, you will be prepared to face any challenge!” – Dr. Amanda Thompson, DMD,

Tip 3: Ace the CASPer test

Some dental schools require the CASPer test. It is used to assess applicants' non-cognitive skills essential for success in dentistry.

To prepare for the CASPer test, it's important to familiarize yourself with the categories and types of questions. Practice analyzing complex scenarios from multiple perspectives and articulating your thoughts logically and succinctly. Utilize available resources such as sample questions and preparation courses.

Using a tutor for CASPer preparation can provide personalized guidance, insight into the test format, constructive feedback on responses, and support to alleviate test anxiety. With tailored assistance, students can enhance their critical thinking, communication, and ethical reasoning skills, ultimately boosting their chances of success in dental school admission.

“I found my session with Nirusan to be very helpful because we were able to pin point some of my weaknesses and come up with strategies to overcome them. Nirusan is also very knowledgeable, he handled some of my unexpected questions and was able to answer them expertly. He looked at both the content and delivery of my responses and provided me with actionable tips. He was very encouraging and made me feel more confident about taking the CASPer test.” - Former BeMo Student

Tip 4: Gain Relevant Experience

Hands-on experience in the dental field is invaluable for demonstrating your commitment to the profession and gaining insight into the realities of dental practice. Consider shadowing dentists, volunteering in dental clinics, or working as a dental assistant to gain firsthand experience.

The New York School of Dentistry has non-academic experience requirements that could make it easier for you to get in, if your academic scores are not as high as they should be. For example, you have to have at least 100 hours of shadowing experience to apply to the program.

Tip 5: Participate in Extracurricular Activities

Engage in extracurricular activities for dental school that showcase your leadership skills, commitment to service, and passion for dentistry. Activities such as community service projects, leadership roles in student organizations, or research experiences can strengthen your application.

Want to impress your dental school with your extracurriculars?

According to Dr. Thompson, the importance of extracurriculars cannot be overstated. In her experience, admissions committees were very interested in this aspect of her application.

“I found that dental school admissions committees were most interested in the activities that I had invested a lot of time in. There were a few clubs that I was involved in for only a semester or two, but I volunteered for several organizations for a period of multiple years. I got many more questions and comments about the activities in which I was involved in for longer. Longevity and dedication are key!” - Dr. Amanda Thompson, DMD

Tip 6: Write a Compelling Personal Statement

Your dental school personal statement offers an opportunity to share your unique story, motivations, and aspirations with dental schools. It is your chance to provide admissions committees with a deeper understanding of who you are and why you're drawn to dentistry. Take advantage of this opportunity to craft a narrative that showcases your passion, dedication, and qualities that make you a promising candidate for dental school.

Moreover, your personal statement should demonstrate your understanding of the profession and your alignment with its values and ethics. Discuss why you're drawn to dentistry specifically and what you hope to contribute to the field. Show admissions committees that you've done your homework by researching each dental school's program, mission, and culture, and explain how you see yourself fitting into their community.

Tip 7: Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation for dental school provide insight into your character, work ethic, and suitability for dental school.

Each school will have their own specific criteria for who can submit a letter on your behalf. For example, A.T. Still University Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health will accept a letter from one of your volunteer positions for your dental school letters of recommendation, although you must also submit letters from previous instructor or a dentist.

Tip 8: Optimize Your Application Process

Ensuring that your dental school application is thorough, error-free, and submitted punctually is paramount. This step is particularly crucial because many dental schools utilize the American Association of Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS) as the primary application portal. Here's how you can optimize your application process:

• Review the requirements of each dental school you plan to apply to
• Thoroughly review all application materials for accuracy and completeness. Ensure that all personal information, such as contact details and employment history, is up to date.
• Be mindful of application deadlines for each dental school. Submit your application well in advance of the deadline.
• Familiarize yourself with the AADSAS application portal and follow the instructions carefully when completing your application.
• Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread. Consider asking a trusted friend, family member, or mentor to review your application as well.

Tip 9: Prepare for Interviews

Being invited for a dental school interview is a significant milestone in the application process. Here's how you can prepare effectively:

• Research each dental school's mission, curriculum, and values to tailor your responses during the interview.
• Prepare answers for common interview questions about your background, experiences, and motivations for pursuing dentistry.
• Enter the interview with confidence, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm for the profession. Stay positive, engage with the interviewers, and show your interest in the school.

 FAQS

To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting

 Please note: although we have made every effort to provide the most accurate information, admissions information changes frequently. Therefore, we encourage you to verify these details with the official university admissions office. You are responsible for your own results. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any official universities, colleges, or test administrators and vice versa.

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